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Pilots Keep Control: FAA Rules Max 10 Software Issue Safe
5 Oct
Summary
- FAA determined a software glitch in Boeing 737 Max flight computers is not a safety concern.
- Pilots retain full control during the affected landing scenario, FAA confirmed.
- The Max 10 could receive FAA certification as soon as later this month.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has determined that a software issue in certain Boeing 737 Max flight computers does not present a safety risk. This decision was made last Friday by a panel of FAA safety experts. The agency's Corrective Action Review Board concluded that pilots maintain complete control during the landing scenario in question, and all flight crew indications are clear.
The FAA will issue a special bulletin to airlines, providing guidance to flight crews on how to handle the issue if it arises. This glitch typically occurs during a go-around procedure when crews modify a preprogrammed route. Boeing is developing a software fix and is coordinating with airlines on an interim procedure.
With this FAA determination, the Boeing 737 Max 10, the largest variant in the Max family, is now expected to receive certification as early as this month. Boeing has substantial orders for the Max 10, with nearly 1,500 aircraft on order. This marks the final variant in the Max lineup awaiting FAA certification, following the Max 7's certification in August.
