The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) plans to offer aerospace giant Boeing a non-prosecution agreement in connection with two fatal crashes involving its 737 Max aircraft. This deal would let the company avoid a criminal trial or guilty plea, despite its role in two tragedies that killed 346 people. The news was delivered during a private meeting with victims’ families on Friday, May 17, sparking sharp criticism and renewed demands for accountability.
Boeing Avoids Fraud Trial Despite Past Settlement Breach
Officials confirmed that Boeing would not face criminal fraud charges after breaching a 2021 settlement agreement. That earlier deal had protected the company from prosecution in exchange for fines and a promise to improve safety. But after Boeing failed to meet some of those terms, the DOJ reopened the case in 2024.
Now, under a new proposed deal, the government would drop efforts to pursue the case in court. Boeing would likely face additional fines and oversight, but would not have to plead guilty or admit wrongdoing. The exact terms of the upcoming agreement have not been made public.
Victims’ Families Denounce the Decision
Families of crash victims quickly condemned the DOJ’s decision. Many said it represented a retreat from justice and a failure to hold Boeing accountable.
Sanjiv Singh, a lawyer representing 16 families, spoke out after the briefing:
“The government now retreats from justice. This deal has no strength, no accountability, and no moral integrity.”
Other family members present at the meeting described it as devastating and disrespectful, especially given the scale of the tragedy.
What Happened in the Crashes?
The first accident occurred in October 2018, when Lion Air Flight 610 plunged into the sea near Indonesia, killing all 189 people on board. Just five months later, in March 2019, Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 crashed shortly after takeoff, killing 157 passengers and crew.
Both crashes were tied to faulty software known as MCAS, which repeatedly forced the planes into a nose-down position. Investigators later found that Boeing had withheld critical safety information from regulators and pilots. As a result, the entire 737 Max fleet was grounded worldwide for nearly two years.
Plea Deal Rejected by Judge in 2024
In December 2024, a federal judge rejected a proposed plea agreement that would have forced Boeing to plead guilty and pay $487 million in fines. Judge Reed O’Connor objected to parts of the deal, especially a clause that required diversity-focused oversight in the independent monitoring process.
After the deal collapsed, the DOJ reviewed its options. With Donald Trump now back in office, critics say the DOJ’s latest decision reflects a weakened stance on corporate accountability. The agency has not explained why it reversed course, fueling public suspicion and frustration.
Boeing and DOJ Remain Silent
Boeing declined to answer questions about the proposed deal. The Justice Department also did not release a public statement. Both parties are expected to finalize terms in the coming weeks.
The stock market reacted quickly, with Boeing shares falling 0.5% following the announcement. Analysts say public perception could further damage the company’s reputation, especially if families continue to press for justice through public campaigns or lawsuits.
Families Call for Criminal Trial and Transparency
Lawyers and victims’ families say the DOJ’s proposed deal is not enough. They argue that only a criminal trial will force Boeing to change its internal safety culture.
Sanjiv Singh added:
“Only criminal trials will change Boeing’s culture and protect future passengers.”
Some families are also considering civil lawsuits and congressional appeals to prevent the deal from going forward. They argue that settling the case quietly sends the wrong message to other major corporations.
Broader Questions About Corporate Accountability
This latest development raises larger questions about how the U.S. government handles corporate wrongdoing, especially when lives are lost. Critics say non-prosecution agreements let large firms avoid real consequences, and fail to deter similar behavior in the future.
Legal experts warn that this trend could undermine public trust in federal institutions. Calls are growing for the DOJ to adopt stricter enforcement policies and ensure equal treatment under the law, regardless of a company’s size or influence.