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Southwest, United Reject New Boeing 737 MAX Jets With Software Issue
Both airlines told Boeing they won't take delivery of aircraft affected by a flight-management-computer problem the FAA is reviewing.
Southwest Airlines and United Airlines have told Boeing they will not accept new 737 MAX jets that are equipped with a recently identified software issue, reported by CNBC.
The problem involves the flight-management computer and can cause automated vertical navigation to disengage during a specific missed-approach scenario. The Federal Aviation Administration is currently reviewing the issue.
Southwest has the largest 737 MAX fleet among U.S. carriers. United operates a smaller number of the jets. Both airlines have deliveries pending from Boeing.
The rejection of the aircraft means Boeing must fix the software before handing over the planes. The company did not say how long the fix would take or how many jets are affected.
The FAA's review comes as Boeing works to stabilize production and deliveries of the 737 MAX after years of quality and safety problems. The agency has said it will not return the MAX to service after previous groundings until it is satisfied the aircraft is safe.
For travellers, the delivery delay does not affect any current 737 MAX flights already in the air. The issue only applies to new jets that have not yet been handed over to airlines.
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