Boeing spokesperson says the company is working on software update after 737 flight guidance issue

Boeing says it is developing a software update for its 737 after identifying an issue that could leave pilots without access to automated vertical flight guidance in a specific landing scenario. The company notified 737 operators last month and provided information reinforcing existing pilot procedures for handling the situation safely. Boeing said the problem may occur after a missed approach, when a pilot changes a preprogrammed flight path. In that case, the flight management computer software could shift the aircraft from vertical navigation mode to a simpler pitch-control automation level, requiring additional steps for automated vertical navigation on subsequent approaches. Boeing told the U.S. FAA about the issue and is working under regulator oversight, while also coordinating with airlines to formalize a procedure to re-enable the feature.