Boeing flags undisclosed 737 MAX software fault affecting automated landing guidance

Boeing has found a previously undisclosed software fault on the 737 MAX that can cause automated navigation guidance to drop out during landing. The company has told operators and is working with regulators on a permanent fix, according to corporate information reported by The Wall Street Journal.

The fault appeared after an update to flight deck software on the flight computers of certain 737 MAX aircraft. It shows up under a specific set of conditions: the system can fail when crews change their planned route after a go-around, which may leave pilots without automated flight guidance for the landing.

Boeing confirmed it notified all 737 operators last month about the unexpected behaviour. In an email to Reuters, the company said it shared technical information with airlines to reinforce existing standard operating procedures, letting pilots handle these events safely, manually or with assistance. Engineering teams are working on a software update to resolve the issue.

Key airlines have asked to pause deliveries of aircraft fitted with the affected system while that work continues.