2 hrs ago
Boeing Finds MAX Software Issue Affecting Flight Guidance Automation
Boeing found a software problem on some 737 MAX airplanes.
The problem might make an automated flight guidance system turn off after a plane misses a landing approach.
It may happen when the pilots try a different approach the second time.
Boeing told airlines to reset the system after a missed approach.
The company is also preparing a permanent software update.
Akasa Air said its planes are operating safely under existing procedures.
Air India Express did not respond to requests for comment.
Separately, Airbus found a coating problem on some A321neo airplanes, including about a dozen used by IndiGo.
Boeing identified a software issue on certain 737 MAX aircraft that may reduce automation after a missed approach.
The automated flight guidance system could disengage if the next approach differs from the original flight path.
Boeing advised operators to reset the system after a missed approach while developing a permanent software update.
Air India Express and Akasa Air operate about 96 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft in India, but only Akasa confirmed safe ongoing operations.
Airbus also reported a separate fuselage-coating quality issue affecting some A321neo aircraft, including about a dozen operated by IndiGo.
- Who
- Boeing, along with operators Air India Express and Akasa Air, is involved; the issue affects certain Boeing 737 MAX aircraft.
- What
- A software issue may cause the automated flight guidance system to disengage after a missed approach when the next approach path differs from the original.
- Where
- The issue concerns Boeing 737 MAX aircraft operated globally, including about 96 aircraft in India.
- When
- Boeing said on Sunday that it was developing an update; the company said operators had been informed the previous month.
- Why
- Boeing is developing a permanent fix and advised operators to reset the system after a missed approach as a precaution.
Key facts
- Aircraft affected
- Certain Boeing 737 MAX aircraft
- Potential effect
- Reduced automation or disengagement of the automated flight guidance system after a missed approach
- Interim measure
- Operators were advised to reset the system following a missed approach
- Boeing MAX fleet in India
- About 96 aircraft operated by Air India Express and Akasa Air
- Air India Express MAX fleet
- Around 53 aircraft
- Akasa Air MAX fleet
- 43 aircraft
- Global MAX deliveries
- More than 2,400 aircraft delivered by Boeing
- Separate Airbus issue
- A fuselage surface-protection coating problem affects a significant number of A321neo aircraft, including about a dozen operated by IndiGo
Quotes
Akasa Air spokesperson
Representative of Akasa Air describing the safety of its operations
“Last month, we informed all 737 operators about a software issue where pilots may experience a reduction in automation during a landing scenario. We shared information with operators that reinforced existing pilot procedures for safely handling such cases.”
CNBC TV 18
deccanchronicle.com
“We are closely coordinating with Boeing and can confirm that there is no impact to the safety of Akasa Air operations. Our aircraft continue to operate safely in accordance with established procedures and applicable regulatory requirements.”
CNBC TV 18
deccanchronicle.com
Sources
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