Boeing flags 737 MAX software glitch affecting landing navigation feature, WSJ reports

Boeing has discovered a software glitch in the 737 MAX aircraft that could potentially disable an automated landing navigation feature, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal. This issue surfaced following a cockpit software update and can manifest when pilots deviate from their intended flight path following a missed approach.

Boeing notified all 737 MAX operators about this software problem last month, emphasizing existing safety procedures to manage such scenarios. The company is currently developing a permanent software update to rectify the issue. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is aware of this potential problem and is collaborating with Boeing and airlines to address it.

The FAA has established a Corrective Action Review Board to take prompt action should any safety concerns arise. In response to this development, Southwest Airlines and United Airlines have requested Boeing to refrain from delivering new 737 MAX aircraft equipped with the affected software and instead opt for an older version. It remains unclear the number of aircraft currently operating with the faulty software.

Boeing, airlines, and regulators are actively investigating this matter to determine if it poses a safety risk to flights.