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Boeing 737 MAX production and certification status

Updated 3 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-09-26 23:46 UTC → 2026-09-27 05:22 UTC · added removed

Boeing continues to manage production constraints and technical challenges across its 737 MAX aircraft family. While the company previously worked to stabilize production rates at the Renton, Washington facility, new technical issues have emerged. A recent cockpit software update has introduced a glitch that can cause disable automated vertical navigation features to become unavailable if (VNAV) functions during specific landing scenarios. The issue typically occurs when pilots alter their planned flight path following a missed approach. approach, causing the flight management computer to switch to a lower level of automation and increasing pilot workload at critical, low altitudes. Boeing notified all operators of the issue in late August, stating that while the glitch may necessitate manual flight at low altitudes, flight, it does not currently pose an “immediate safety risk.” risk” as pilots are trained to manage landings without these features. Boeing is developing a permanent software fix, which was initially projected for completion by early 2028, though the company is attempting to accelerate this timeline. Engineers are also working on a temporary procedure to help pilots manually restore VNAV functions if they become unavailable. The FAA is investigating the matter and has stated it will take immediate action if a safety risk is identified. Engineers are currently developing a software update to provide a permanent resolution. This investigation could potentially impact the certification or operational rollout of newer models, such as the 737 MAX 7 and MAX 10. In response, major carriers including Southwest and United Airlines have requested that Boeing deliver new MAX aircraft using earlier software versions. Currently, Alaska, American, Southwest, Alaska and United American Airlines report that none of their existing MAX jets are operating with the problematic software. Regarding the broader 737 MAX lineup, the FAA has certified the 737 MAX 7. Boeing expects to begin deliveries of this model to Southwest Airlines in late 2026, with passenger service anticipated in early 2027. These developments follow previous efforts to address electrical issues and the ongoing certification process for the 737 MAX 10, which was expected to enter service around April or May 2027.

Versions

  1. 2026-09-27 05:22 UTC Boeing 737 MAX production and certification status
  2. 2026-09-26 23:46 UTC Boeing 737 MAX production and certification status
  3. 2026-09-26 22:31 UTC Boeing 737 MAX production and certification status
  4. 2026-09-25 20:59 UTC Boeing 737 MAX production and certification status

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