The U.S. Department of Justice is considering a deal with Boeing to avoid criminal prosecution after two fatal crashes involving the 737 MAX. The DOJ may appoint a federal supervisor to oversee safety improvements at Boeing. The terms of the possible deferred prosecution agreement (DPA) are still subject to change, but officials believe prosecuting Boeing would be legally risky.
Boeing has agreed to pay $2.5 billion in a previous DPA related to the 737 MAX certification. However, multiple production and quality control issues since then have led to violations of the agreement. Victims’ families are calling for a nearly $25 billion fine and criminal prosecution of Boeing.
A new DPA would allow the government to resolve Boeing’s violations without a trial, potentially saving the company from bankruptcy. However, some argue that a trial and guilty verdict are necessary to hold Boeing accountable. Boeing’s defense segment generated $25 billion in sales in 2023.
Ultimately, the DOJ’s decision on how to proceed with Boeing will have significant implications for the aviation industry and national security.
© 2024 AFP