Alaska Airlines CEO says Boeing Max 10 delay does not raise major concerns

Alaska Airlines chief executive Ben Minicucci told CNBC he is "not overly concerned" about a newly identified software glitch that is further delaying the certification of Boeing's 737 Max 10. The airline, which plans to introduce lie-flat suites on the Max 10 in late 2028, said a prolonged delay could push back the launch, but it is cooperating with the Federal Aviation Administration and Boeing on the approval process.

FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford said the agency is evaluating the software problem, which could affect the aircraft's vertical navigation system after a missed approach, and that certification will be postponed, contributing to a drop in Boeing's share price.

The Max 10, the final variant of Boeing's 737 Max family awaiting approval, has orders from Alaska, United, Delta and American airlines. Boeing's chief executive indicated that approval is expected "very soon," while Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary said he anticipates certification to be completed "in a matter of days, not weeks or months."