US Justice Department Meeting with Boeing Crash Victims’ Families
The US Justice Department has scheduled a meeting with lawyers representing families of the victims of two fatal Boeing 737 MAX crashes. The crashes, occurring in 2018 and 2019, resulted in the deaths of 346 individuals.
Upcoming Meeting Details
The upcoming meeting, scheduled for Tuesday afternoon, is a prelude to a larger gathering on April 24 where victims’ families will directly engage with Justice Department officials.
Background and Settlement
This meeting follows an agreement reached between Boeing and the Justice Department in January 2021. Boeing paid $2.5 billion to settle a fraud conspiracy charge linked to the flawed design of the 737 MAX. The settlement granted Boeing immunity from criminal prosecution for a three-year period, which concluded on January 7.
Current Investigations
The Justice Department retains the right to assess whether Boeing has complied with the terms of the 2021 agreement. An insider familiar with the matter told Reuters that the Justice Department is investigating other violations by Boeing, which could lead to criminal prosecution against the aerospace company.
Government Scrutiny and Pressure
The scheduled meetings are specifically related to the 737 MAX fatal crashes and not the mid-air incident involving a Boeing plane in January. Families of the victims of the previous fatal incidents have expressed dissatisfaction with the settlement, believing it allowed Boeing to evade criminal prosecution.
FBI Investigation
The FBI has informed passengers of an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 9 flight on March 19 that they could possibly be victims of a crime. Letters reviewed by Reuters revealed ongoing criminal investigation.
