Boeing scrambles to fix 737 MAX software glitch that can knock out autopilot functions after a missed landing

From the Newshound archive · first published 26 September 2026 · last updated 27 September 2026.

Southwest Airlines and United Airlines have told Boeing they will refuse delivery of new MAX jets loaded with the faulty software, demanding an earlier version instead — a sharp signal of eroded trust in the manufacturer. The glitch is triggered when pilots abort a landing and change their flight path, disabling autopilot functions at low altitude, potentially in deteriorating weather conditions.

Boeing alerted airlines in late August that it considered the glitch to carry no safety risk, but the FAA has since launched an investigation and may force the company to act.

Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest and United all confirm that none of their MAX fleets are currently operating with the affected software installed.

Boeing has been unable to establish how many MAX aircraft worldwide are running the newer software, partly because carriers have no requirement to inform the company when they perform upgrades.