FAA Halts Boeing 737 Max 10 Certification Over Software Glitch

Key points

• FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford confirmed the agency will not certify the 737 Max 10 until it concludes its review of a new software defect.
• The glitch, flagged by Boeing in August, may disable vertical navigation systems if pilots must perform a go-around after a missed approach.
• Boeing shares fell nearly 7% following the announcement, reflecting investor concern over continued delays for the aircraft family.
• The FAA stated that safety dictates the certification timeline and that it will take action if the issue is deemed a safety-of-flight concern.
• Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg had previously indicated the company expected FAA approval in the coming weeks.

Background

This development follows a series of setbacks for the 737 Max family, including two fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019 linked to flight control systems. Recent months have seen Boeing address a similar software flaw affecting other Max models, leading airlines like Southwest and United to pause deliveries. The Max 10, originally slated for delivery in 2020, is the last variant in the family awaiting certification.

How outlets are covering it

CNBC emphasizes the regulatory uncertainty and market impact, noting the FAA’s cautious stance and the significant stock drop. The Stranger highlights the operational response, reporting that major US carriers have avoided flying planes with the flawed software by reverting to older versions. While Boeing maintains that pilots are trained for these scenarios and remain in control, the FAA is focused on the increased workload component and has not yet ruled out safety implications.

Why it matters

The delay impacts Boeing’s ability to complete certification for its best-selling aircraft family and affects delivery schedules for major airlines. It also raises questions about the reliability of new software updates in aviation, potentially influencing future regulatory scrutiny and airline procurement decisions.

What to watch

The FAA will continue its safety review process to determine if the software glitch poses a safety-of-flight issue. Boeing is working on a software update to address the defect. The outcome of this review will dictate when, or if, the 737 Max 10 receives certification, with potential ripple effects for the already certified Max 7 deliveries.