4 Steps to Fix a MacBook Air Stuck on a Black Screen After an Update

Force restart first Press and hold the power button for about 10 seconds until the screen goes black, release, wait a couple seconds, and press it again to turn it back on. This usually fixes the issue.

Reset the SMC if you have an Intel-based Mac For Intel models, resetting the System Management Controller can help. On Apple Silicon (M1, M2, etc.), skip this step — the force restart covers it.

Reset NVRAM on Intel models Hold Option + Command + P + R immediately after pressing the power button and hold for about 20 seconds. This clears display and startup settings.

Plug the MacBook Air charger in A drained battery can look like a black screen after an update. Connect power before trying anything else.