Families of Boeing 737 Max Crash Victims Demand $25 Billion Fine for Corporate Crime

Families affected by the tragic crashes of two Boeing 737 Max airplanes have called for a substantial $24.8 billion fine against Boeing, labeling it “the deadliest corporate crime in US history.” This demand comes as part of their ongoing push for accountability and justice for the 346 lives lost in the 2018 and 2019 disasters.

Paul Cassell, the attorney representing the families, stated in a detailed 32-page letter to U.S. authorities that the proposed fine reflects the “enormous human costs of Boeing’s crimes.” The letter, which the BBC has viewed, urges the prosecution of Boeing executives responsible during the time of the crashes.

During a recent congressional hearing, Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun issued an apology for the company’s role in the incidents, an act met with vocal protests from victims’ family members present. Calhoun admitted to the company’s past mistakes and emphasized that significant lessons have been learned. He also recognized issues with the company’s internal culture, including retaliation against whistleblowers, and assured that improvements have been made.

Both crashes, one involving a Lion Air flight in October 2018 and the other an Ethiopian Airlines flight in March 2019, were linked to malfunctions in the aircraft’s flight control systems. These incidents sparked widespread scrutiny and criticism of Boeing’s safety practices and regulatory oversight.

The Justice Department is currently deliberating whether to reactivate a dormant fraud charge against Boeing from 2021. This charge was initially set aside after Boeing agreed to overhaul its compliance systems to prevent further misconduct. However, following a recent incident where a door panel detached from a 737 Max during flight, authorities are reevaluating the terms of the previous settlement.

The families’ letter also proposes that any potential fines include provisions for establishing an independent body to monitor Boeing’s safety and compliance measures continuously.

Zipporah Kuria, who lost her father in the 2019 Ethiopian Airlines crash, expressed her ongoing commitment to seeing Boeing held criminally accountable. She, along with other families, attended the congressional hearing, visibly advocating for justice and corporate accountability.

The deadline for the Justice Department to decide on the revival of the fraud case is set for July 7. Meanwhile, families continue to seek a resolution that not only addresses their grievances but also ensures such tragedies are prevented in the future.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, bbc.com