Boeing Offered Plea Deal to Avoid Trial Over 737 Max Crashes

Photo : AP

Washington: The US Justice Department is offering Boeing a plea deal to avoid a trial concerning two fatal 737 MAX crashes, according to a lawyer for the victims' families, who expressed outrage at the proposal.

CEO Dave Calhoun, who plans to step down later this year, recently testified before Congress that the company is "taking action and making progress."

Paul Cassell, a University of Utah law professor representing the families, revealed that details of the deal, which includes a fine and oversight by an external supervisor, were presented to the families during a two-hour meeting with the DOJ on Sunday. Cassell noted that the families "will strenuously object" to the agreement if Boeing accepts and it is brought before a judge.

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When contacted by AFP, Boeing declined to comment on the matter. The New York Times reported over a week ago that prosecutors were considering an alternative settlement known as a deferred prosecution agreement (DPA), though the DOJ stated no decision had been made.

In May, the DOJ concluded that Boeing could face prosecution for violating a previous DPA related to the 2018 and 2019 crashes that claimed 346 lives. As part of that three-year deal, Boeing agreed to pay $2.5 billion to settle fraud charges associated with the 737 MAX certification process.

The aviation giant faced renewed scrutiny earlier this year after a 737 MAX operated by Alaska Airlines had to make an emergency landing due to a fuselage panel blowing out mid-flight on January 5. This incident reignited concerns over Boeing's manufacturing processes, leading to further regulatory scrutiny and congressional investigations.

Victims' families have consistently urged federal prosecutors to take Boeing to court rather than reach another settlement. However, prosecutors are also under pressure to avoid further damaging Boeing, a company deemed critical to the US aviation industry and national security.

During Sunday's presentation, the lead US prosecutor acknowledged the families' strong interest in a trial but repeatedly stated that the DOJ could not prove charges beyond a reasonable doubt. Cassell reported that families argued for a trial to allow a jury to decide the case.

In mid-June, Boeing contested the DOJ's conclusions but recognized the severity of the safety crisis. Ultimately, the decision on whether the new DPA will proceed rests with a federal judge in Texas overseeing the case.

The DOJ’s proposal and Boeing’s potential acceptance of it have sparked significant controversy and debate, highlighting the ongoing tension between legal accountability and the practical implications for a major industry player.

July 1, 2024 10:27 a.m. 409

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