FAA reviews Boeing 737 MAX software issue

Boeing has alerted 737 operators to a software issue that can reduce automated flight guidance during a specific missed-approach scenario, while the Federal Aviation Administration reviews whether the problem raises a safety concern. Boeing says it is developing a permanent software update; the number of aircraft affected and the review’s outcome have not been established. The issue involves flight management computer software on certain 737 MAX aircraft. It can occur when a crew aborts a landing and changes its programmed flight path while conducting a precision approach with autopilot engaged. In that situation, the aircraft’s vertical navigation system may disengage, shifting to a less sophisticated form of automated pitch control. Pilots may then need to take additional steps on a subsequent approach. Boeing said it informed all 737 operators about the issue and provided information reinforcing existing pilot procedures. The company said the autopilot would continue to function if vertical navigation disengaged, and that pilots are trained to land without that feature. The FAA said it is working with Boeing and airlines and will convene a Corrective Action Review Board.