Boeing 737 MAX Software Glitch Threatens to Delay MAX 10 Certification Just Days From Finish Line

Boeing faces renewed scrutiny on its 737 MAX program after a software issue surfaced that could complicate the long-awaited certification of the MAX 10 and the entry into commercial service of the already-certified MAX 7, following reporting first published by The Wall Street Journal on September 26, 2026.

The timing is notable: the MAX 10, the largest member of the 737 MAX family, was reportedly days away from finally receiving FAA certification when the issue emerged. Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg said on September 16 that all MAX 10 flight testing had been completed and that the program was in its final documentation phase with the FAA. The MAX 7, the smallest variant, already holds its FAA type certificate, having been certified in August 2026, and Boeing is now preparing to begin customer deliveries.

What the Software Issue Involves

The problem centers on the flight management computer's vertical navigation function, known as VNAV. According to reporting, the issue can occur during a specific sequence: a pilot performs a go-around, or missed approach, from a precision approach with the autopilot engaged, and then modifies the pre-programmed flight path. In that scenario, VNAV can disconnect, forcing the aircraft into a simpler, secondary pitch-control mode that increases pilot workload compared to the standard automated mode.

This is a distinct, narrow issue unrelated to the flight control software changes Boeing made to MCAS following the two fatal MAX crashes in 2018 and 2019.

According to CBS News, an airline first reported the behavior to Boeing in November 2024. Boeing concluded in February 2025 that the issue did not present a safety concern, but additional information from operators later prompted a formal safety review. Boeing informed all 737 operators about the issue roughly a month before the Wall Street Journal's September 26 report brought it to public attention.

Boeing and the FAA Respond

Boeing has been forthcoming about the issue since it became public. 

Last month, we informed all 737 operators about a software issue where pilots may not have access to automated flight guidance during a specific landing scenario,

a Boeing spokesperson said.

 We shared information with operators that reinforced existing pilot procedures for safely handling such cases. Our engineers are working on a software update to permanently address the issue.

The FAA has taken formal action in response. The agency said it is convening a Corrective Action Review Board to determine whether the software behavior constitutes a flight-safety issue, stating it is "aware of a potential issue in a software update for the flight computers on certain Boeing 737 MAX airplanes and is working closely with Boeing and the airlines," and that it "will take immediate action if it identifies a safety concern." If the board determines the issue does pose a safety concern, that could delay MAX 10 certification and complicate the MAX 7's entry into service.

A permanent software fix was originally slated for 2028, though Boeing says it is working to accelerate that timeline. In the meantime, the company is developing a bulletin reinforcing existing pilot procedures for operators of both aircraft.

Impact on Airlines and Customers

The delays create planning challenges for airlines that have ordered the aircraft. Southwest Airlines, the launch customer for the MAX 7 and operator of an all-Boeing fleet, has repeatedly adjusted its capacity plans as MAX 7 deliveries have slipped. United Airlines and Delta Air Lines hold significant orders for the MAX 10.

For Boeing, the stakes remain high. The MAX 10 competes directly with the Airbus A321neo, which has dominated the larger single-aisle market in recent years. Every additional month of delay allows Airbus to strengthen its position with airlines making long-term fleet decisions.

What Happens Next

The outcome now depends largely on the FAA's Corrective Action Review Board, which will determine whether the VNAV issue requires resolution before the MAX 10 can be certified or before the MAX 7 can enter commercial service. Boeing has said it continues to work closely with the FAA as the review proceeds, though the company has not provided a revised certification or delivery timeline in light of the finding.