Boeing Reaches $1.1B Deal Over 737 Max Crashes

Boeing has reached a $1.1 billion non-prosecution agreement with the US Department of Justice over two fatal 737 Max crashes in 2018 and 2019 that killed 346 people. Under the deal, Boeing will admit to obstructing federal aviation officials, pay fines and compensation to victims' families, and invest over $455 million to improve compliance, safety, and quality programs. The agreement allows Boeing to avoid prosecution and the label of a convicted felon, and it ends the requirement for oversight by an independent monitor, instead requiring Boeing to hire a compliance consultant. The deal has drawn criticism from many victims' families and lawmakers who argue it lacks sufficient accountability, while some families support or do not oppose it. The DOJ asserts the agreement is fair and in the public interest. The DOJ expects to file the agreement with the court by the end of next week.