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In an unprecedented move, the U.S. Justice Department is slated to engage in discussions with attorneys representing the families of victims from two catastrophic Boeing 737 Max crashes. These incidents, which occurred in 2018 and 2019, collectively claimed the lives of 346 individuals.
CNBC noted that the upcoming meetings signal a potential shift towards initiating a criminal case against the aviation giant.
Meetings Set the Stage
A pivotal meeting has been scheduled for Tuesday afternoon. It will target a legal discourse with the victims' family lawyers ahead of a larger conference on April 24 that will include the victims' families directly. Glenn Leon, the Justice Department's fraud section chief, emphasized the importance of these discussions in an email Reuters reviewed.
On its part, Boeing has opted for silence regarding these developments, just as the Justice Department has refrained from immediate commentary.
Background of the Boeing Immunity Agreement
In January 2021, Boeing secured an immunity deal with the Justice Department, effectively evading criminal prosecution over the 737 Max tragedies. This agreement involved a $2.5 billion settlement to resolve fraud conspiracy charges linked to the aircraft's faulty design.
According to Reuters, this immunity was contingent upon Boeing's adherence to the agreement's conditions over a three-year term, concluding on January 7.
A Tense Moment in Aviation History
Just days before the term of the settlement expired, a Boeing 737 Max 9 suffered a mid-flight structural failure, although no fatalities were reported. This incident and the original crashes form the backdrop against which the Justice Department is now reassessing Boeing's compliance with the 2021 agreement. Violations could potentially pave the way for a criminal prosecution.
As the investigation unfolds, Tuesday's legal consultation and the subsequent family meeting in April are critical markers in a case that could have profound implications for Boeing. Amid ongoing government pressure and the lingering specter of the recent airborne emergency, the discussions represent a significant moment for the victims' families, who have long contested the settlement allowing Boeing to avoid criminal charges.
The Justice Department's actions in the coming months will be closely watched, as it has until July 7 to make a decision.
Photo: PR Newswire
