Boeing has agreed to plead guilty to a criminal fraud conspiracy charge, related to the 737 MAX crashes that led to 346 deaths in Indonesia and Ethiopia, resulting in a $243.6 million fine and potential fines up to $487 million. This plea deal, which requires court approval, would make Boeing a convicted felon, impacting its ability to secure government contracts. The company will also invest $455 million in compliance programs and undergo third-party monitoring. Victims' families have criticized the agreement for not holding Boeing accountable enough, while the plea allows Boeing to avoid a public trial and potentially facilitates its acquisition plans with a new CEO incoming.