India, Sept. 28 -- Boeing has identified a software problem on some 737 MAX aircraft that can reduce automated flight guidance after a missed landing, and the manufacturer is preparing a permanent software update.

The condition can appear when a crew flies a precision approach with autopilot engaged, executes a go-around, and then changes the programmed path for a subsequent approach. In that sequence, the flight management computer may drop vertical navigation (VNAV) and leave the aircraft in a simpler pitch mode. Boeing has told operators the situation is not an immediate safety concern and that existing pilot procedures cover it. As an interim step, it has advised crews to reset the system after a missed approach.

A Boeing spokespers...