Boeing Closing on Deal to Avoid Guilty Plea in the 737 MAX Crash Trial

Boeing is reportedly close to securing an agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice that would prevent prosecution in a fraud case linked to two fatal 737 MAX crashes. The accidents, which took place in 2018 and 2019, claimed 346 lives.

Under this arrangement, Boeing would sidestep a June 23 trial over allegations that it misled U.S. regulators about a key flight control system in its highest-selling jet. If approved, the deal would shield Boeing from being classified as a convicted felon, a status that could threaten its ability to secure lucrative government contracts with agencies like the Defense Department and NASA.

The company previously agreed to plead guilty and pay substantial fines but has since altered its position following a judge’s rejection of an earlier plea agreement. Justice Department officials are still weighing whether to proceed with a trial or finalize the non-prosecution agreement, but negotiations remain ongoing.

Families of crash victims have criticized the potential deal, arguing that Boeing is being let off the hook for its actions. Meanwhile, regulatory scrutiny continues, especially after a recent in-flight emergency involving another 737 MAX aircraft prompted the Federal Aviation Administration to impose production limits.

Separately, Boeing has recently secured a major deal with Qatar Airways, announced during former President Donald Trump's visit to the Gulf nation. The Justice Department’s handling of Boeing's legal battle has spanned multiple administrations, sparking further debate about corporate accountability.