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Boeing to Plead Guilty to Criminal Fraud Charge Over 737 MAX Crashes, Faces $487.2 Million Fine

Jul 7, 2024, 08:30 PM

Boeing has agreed to plead guilty to a criminal fraud charge in connection with two fatal 737 MAX crashes in 2018 and 2019 that resulted in the deaths of 346 people. The U.S. Justice Department announced that the aerospace giant will face a criminal fine of up to $487.2 million. This decision comes after Boeing violated an earlier settlement agreement with the government. The plea deal allows Boeing to avoid a criminal trial, but it marks a significant legal and reputational setback for the company, which has faced scrutiny and criticism for its handling of the 737 MAX issues. The Justice Department had to decide by July 7 on whether to criminally charge Boeing or reach a settlement, and the agreement was finalized shortly thereafter.