Boeing 737 MAX autopilot glitch could affect 96 planes operated by Indian airlines

Boeing has identified a software issue in some 737 MAX aircraft that could cause automated flight guidance to disengage during a specific landing scenario, potentially affecting around 96 such planes operated by Indian airlines.

Air India Express and Akasa Air together operate around 96 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. Air India Express has about 53, while Akasa Air operates 43.

Boeing said it informed all 737 operators about the issue last month and is working on a software update to permanently address the glitch.

“Last month, we informed all 737 operators about a software issue where pilots may experience a reduction in automation during a landing scenario,” a Boeing spokesperson said in a statement, according to Reuters.

“We shared information with operators that reinforced existing pilot procedures for safely handling such cases,” the spokesperson added.WHAT IS THE AUTOPILOT GLITCH?

The issue emerged from a cockpit software update and can occur when flight crews alter their planned flight path after a missed approach, The Wall Street Journal reported, citing company documents.

The glitch does not mean the aircraft cannot be flown manually. Boeing has said existing procedures are in place to help pilots safely manage the situation while engineers work on a permanent software fix.

Boeing has advised operators to reset the system following a missed approach as a precautionary measure, sources told PTI.

Akasa Air said it was coordinating with Boeing and that there was no impact on the safety of its operations. “We are closely coordinating with Boeing and can confirm that there is no impact on the safety of Akasa Air operations,” an airline spokesperson told PTI.

“Our aircraft continue to operate safely in accordance with established procedures and applicable regulatory requirements,” the spokesperson said.

The airline did not specify whether any of its 737 MAX aircraft had experienced the issue.

Air India Express did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

There was also no immediate response from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on whether it was examining the issue or issuing any advisory to Indian carriers.

Globally, Boeing has delivered more than 2,400 737 MAX aircraft to airlines.- Ends(with inputs from agencies)