The U.S. Department of Justice has formally moved to dismiss a criminal fraud charge against American aircraft manufacturer Boeing, sparking renewed outrage from families of victims killed in two fatal crashes involving the 737 Max aircraft.
In court documents filed Thursday, the DOJ asked a federal judge in Texas to cancel an upcoming trial connected to the 2018 and 2019 crashes off the coasts of Indonesia and Ethiopia that claimed 346 lives.
The proposed agreement—valued at over $1.1 billion—would allow Boeing to avoid criminal prosecution in exchange for additional compensation and compliance measures. This includes $445 million in new payments to families of the victims and commitments to internal reforms.
Critics, including many victims’ families, say the deal lacks real accountability. Nadia Milleron, whose 24-year-old daughter died in the Ethiopian crash, called the DOJ’s statement “false,” arguing that “there will be no accountability as a result of the NPA.”
U.S. District Judge Reed O’Connor will decide whether to approve the deal. He has asked both parties to present a briefing schedule by June 4.
Boeing, in its statement, expressed sorrow and reiterated its commitment to safety and reform. “We are deeply sorry for their losses… We remain committed to honoring their loved ones’ memories by pressing forward with broad and deep changes,” the company said.
Attorney Mark Lindquist, representing dozens of affected families, acknowledged the lack of aggressive prosecution but emphasized the importance of safety reforms.
The 737 Max crashes were caused by a faulty sensor triggering a software system that forced the aircraft’s nose downward. Boeing had failed to inform regulators and pilots about the system before certification.
This latest agreement follows accusations that Boeing breached a 2021 deferred prosecution deal by failing to improve internal safeguards. The new terms require Boeing to work with an independent compliance consultant to prevent future violations.
