Families of crash victims argue Boeing should face tougher penalties as a federal judge reviews the company’s plea agreement
A Texas federal judge has scheduled a hearing for next month to review Boeing’s plea agreement regarding the 737 Max jetliner crashes that killed 346 people. The hearing, set for October 11 in Fort Worth, will involve Boeing’s agreement to plead guilty to conspiracy charges related to misleading regulators about the safety of the 737 Max.
The company is accused of deceiving the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to avoid more extensive training requirements for pilots flying the Max. Boeing allegedly downplayed the need for flight simulator training, instead opting for cheaper computer-based training, which ultimately led to the deadly crashes of Lion Air Flight 610 in Indonesia (2018) and Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 (2019).
While the Justice Department has argued that the plea deal, which includes a $243.6 million fine and significant investments in safety programs, is the most serious charge it can pursue, relatives of the victims strongly object. They have argued that the settlement, which also includes a three-year probation period for Boeing, is too lenient. Critics contend that Boeing should face a full trial where it could be subject to harsher penalties, accusing the Justice Department of showing favoritism due to Boeing’s significance as a government contractor.
The case remains a point of contention, with families seeking justice for their loved ones and calling for greater accountability from the aerospace giant.
