Boeing is reportedly facing a potential legal battle with the US Department of Justice over two crashes of 737 MAX aircraft more than five years ago that resulted in a total of 346 fatalities. According to sources familiar with the discussions, an independent oversight body would be appointed to ensure that Boeing improves its production processes and quality control.
Senior officials at the Justice Department are said to view a trial as legally risky and believe that the appointment of an independent supervisor would be a more expeditious and effective way to address the situation. The Justice Department is recommending that charges be filed against Boeing, though a decision on prosecution is not expected until July 7. In a similar case, Airbus paid $2.5 billion to avoid prosecution for fraud at the FAA. Prosecutors believe that Boeing has failed to meet compliance requirements outlined in a previous agreement.
Relatives of the crash victims have called for a substantial fine of nearly $25 billion against Boeing and for criminal action to be taken against the company. Boeing has faced further challenges due to technical problems with its aircraft, including an incident earlier this year where part of a cabin wall broke off during a flight, leading to an emergency landing and a temporary flight ban on 737 MAX aircraft. Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun has pledged to address these issues and improve the company’s practices. He has also apologized to the families of crash victims.
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