The Federal Aviation Administration is delaying certification of Boeing’s 737 MAX 10 until a newly disclosed software issue is resolved, pushing back approval of the largest 737 MAX variant and the last major model in the family still awaiting clearance. The regulator has not set a timetable for the review, which could affect Boeing’s delivery plans and wider narrowbody programme schedule.
FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford said the agency has not yet determined whether the bug is a safety-of-flight issue, but certification will remain on hold until regulators are satisfied there is no problem. The issue affects certain 737 MAX aircraft and can interrupt automated flight guidance during a specific landing scenario, particularly after a missed approach or go-around.
Boeing disclosed the problem over the weekend and is developing a software update while notifying operators. The fault is tied to vertical navigation behaviour during landing recovery and can increase pilot workload in rare circumstances. Reuters reported that a Corrective Action Review Board was expected to examine the matter.