Boeing finds 737 MAX software glitch that could disrupt landing navigation
Boeing’s software glitch reportedly emerged after a cockpit update and could occur when crews change the planned flight path following a missed approach. — AFP pic
Summary
- Boeing has identified a software glitch in its 737 MAX aircraft that may affect automated navigation during landing, posing a potential safety risk.
- This issue emerged after a cockpit software update, particularly during flight path changes after a missed approach.
- As a consequence, pilots might need to rely more on manual flying, especially under challenging conditions like low altitude and adverse weather.
- These findings were reported by The Wall Street Journal, citing concerns from sources familiar with the matter.
First Published: Sunday, 27 Sep 2026 1:33 PM MYT
NEW YORK, Sept 27 — US aerospace giant Boeing has confirmed a technical glitch in the software of its 737 MAX aircraft that could cause problems with an automated navigation function, according to The Wall Street Journal yesterday, reported Sputnik/RIA Novosti.
The glitch has raised concerns about a potential safety risk when the aircraft is landing, the report said.
The issue emerged following an update to the cockpit software and could occur when the crew changes the planned flight path after a missed approach, it added.
The newspaper added that, in certain scenarios, pilots may have to fly the aircraft manually without some autopilot functions.
This could place excessive demands on pilots who are already busy flying at low altitude and may also be dealing with conditions such as bad weather. — Bernama-Sputnik/Ria Novosti
***
Oh no, not again 😱😲😳
Having to go back to manual control is by right not a life-threatening crisis for a plane with a properly trained aircrew, except with a few airports with exceptionally complex approaches.
ReplyDeleteThe danger is some airlines, especially budget airlines , have so critically skimped on pilot training and refresher courses that their pilots are virtually Dumbstruck if they found themselves in a situation where they have to quickly take over manual control.
Same with Airbus aircraft , situations where the flight computer requires the pilot to take over manual control are rare but definitely happens.