【Epoch Times, October 3, 2026】The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) of the United States stated on October 2nd that an expert panel has determined that the software malfunction in the flight computers of some Boeing 737 MAX models does not pose a safety hazard. This clearance has removed a major obstacle for the largest model in this popular narrow-body aircraft series.
This determination eliminates a late-stage hurdle in the airworthiness certification process for the Boeing 737 MAX 10 model, which had faced delays in its certification work for several years. It is also expected to alleviate concerns held by airlines operating the MAX 7 model. The MAX 7 model utilizes the same software and obtained FAA certification in August.
The FAA stated that the corrective action review board made the above determination based on the fact that pilots always maintain full control of the aircraft and the instructions provided to the flight crew are clear, precise, and unambiguous.
The FAA also announced this week that the certification for the MAX 10 will be delayed until the analysis of the software issues is completed. These issues could prevent pilots from using the automatic flight guidance function during abnormal landing scenarios.
The related software issues were initially raised by Canadian airline WestJet two years ago. It was reported that they discovered this anomaly during a commercial operational flight.
Boeing stated that during the development of the next phase of software updates by engineers, the company will continue to follow the guidance of the FAA. At the same time, they are working with airlines to establish a formal procedure for pilots to “re-engage automatic vertical navigation in such scenarios.”
While analyzing the aforementioned issues, major U.S. airlines have opted to use earlier versions of the relevant software. It is anticipated that the MAX 10 could potentially obtain certification later this month.
Major U.S. airlines, including Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, American Airlines, and Alaska Airlines, have all placed orders for the MAX 10 aircraft from Boeing. Canadian airline WestJet is also expecting to receive the MAX 10 model early next year.
(*This article was referenced from Reuters.)