FAA clears Boeing 737 MAX 10 certification despite VNAV software glitch
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration concluded that a software fault that disables vertical navigation during go‑around maneuvers does not constitute a safety risk, allowing the 737 MAX 10 to be certified as early as next week. Boeing plans a permanent software fix by 2028, but several airlines, including United, have said they will not accept deliveries of aircraft equipped with the affected software version. The MAX 10 carries 1,533 firm orders, with first deliveries slated for 2027.
Why it matters
The FAA ruling removes the regulatory barrier to MAX 10 certification, enabling Boeing to proceed with deliveries, but airlines that refuse the flawed software could delay revenue from the backlog. United’s refusal of U14‑equipped jets, representing 167 orders, may postpone a portion of the 2027 delivery schedule.
Key facts
- 1The FAA determined the VNAV software glitch does not pose a safety risk because pilots retain full control and the indications are clear and unambiguous. seattletimes.com
- 2The glitch shuts off vertical navigation (VNAV) in the flight management computer when pilots execute a go‑around and must reboot the system and reprogram the flight path. seattletimes.com
- 3Boeing expects to have a permanent software update to fix the issue by 2028. seattletimes.com
- 4United Airlines said it will not take deliveries of new aircraft fitted with the U14 software version. jpost.com
- 5The 737 MAX 10 has 1,533 firm orders as of June 2026. theaviationhub.co.uk
- 6First commercial deliveries of the MAX 10 are expected in 2027. theaviationhub.co.uk
Summary written by AlphAI AI Desk from 4 of 4 sources. Not investment advice. Figures are as stated by the linked sources.