Washington, USA (CNN) - During a recent technical review of its Max planes, Boeing discovered a problem with the plane's computers, the latest addition to the list of problems the company has faced since its grounding last year.
A source familiar with the matter said the problem was not related to the software reviews Boeing made to address the cause of two fatal accidents that killed 346 people, and would not occur in flight.
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The problem arises when computers are turned on on Max planes, and it includes a so-called software operation monitoring function, which checks for anomalies when computers turn on, similar to the steps a computer takes when it first turns on.
The source also explained that the operation of the computers takes place while the plane is still on the ground, not during flight, adding that the test was aimed at finding any such problems for Boeing to solve.
Boeing is working on a software overhaul of the safety system believed to be the cause of the two fatal crashes. The source could not say whether this latest issue will affect the changes that the company will submit in the program to the Federal Aviation Administration.
Boeing said in a statement that it is working on "necessary updates and is working with the Federal Aviation Administration to deliver this change and to keep our customers and suppliers informed of what is happening." The company also added that its "ultimate" priorities are to ensure the safety of the 737 Max aircraft, and to "meet all regulatory requirements before it is returned to service."
The Max crisis has cost Boeing billions of dollars, as the company recorded more order cancellations than new orders in 2019, and the company's orders for the troubled 737 Max were reduced by 183 planes.