Boeing settles lawsuits with families of 737 MAX crash victims ahead of trial

Boeing has reached confidential settlements with the families of two victims who died in the March 2019 crash of Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302, involving a Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. The announcement came just before the start of what was expected to be the first trial related to the two fatal 737 MAX crashes in 2018 and 2019.

The trial was scheduled in U.S. District Court in Chicago and involved lawsuits brought by the families of Antoine Lewis and Darcy Belanger. While the exact terms of the settlements remain undisclosed, they mark another step in Boeing’s ongoing efforts to resolve claims stemming from the deadly accidents that grounded its bestselling aircraft for nearly two years and cost the company over $20 billion.

Antoine Lewis, a 39-year-old U.S. Army captain, had taken leave to explore logistics business opportunities in Africa. Darcy Belanger, 46, was from Denver and was traveling to a United Nations Environmental Assembly, where he was scheduled to speak.

In a statement, Boeing reaffirmed its apology and responsibility for the crash, saying it had committed to fully and fairly compensating families and accepted legal liability. “We will continue to work to fairly resolve the claims of the family members,” the company said.

As of now, Boeing has settled more than 90% of the claims related to the two crashes. Compensation has been paid through a combination of lawsuits, a deferred prosecution agreement, and other payments.

While these recent settlements close one chapter, Boeing still faces two additional trials scheduled for July and November. The company is also navigating a separate criminal fraud case related to alleged misrepresentations made to regulators about a key safety system on the 737 MAX.

Boeing agreed in July 2024 to plead guilty to a criminal fraud conspiracy charge and pay a fine of up to $487.2 million. The plea followed a U.S. Justice Department determination that Boeing had violated the terms of a 2021 agreement that had previously shielded it from prosecution.

Relatives of the crash victims have strongly criticized the plea deal, calling it a “sweetheart” arrangement that fails to hold the company fully accountable for the tragedies.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What caused the Boeing 737 MAX crashes?

The crashes were linked to a faulty flight control system known as the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS). This system, designed to automatically push the aircraft’s nose down under certain conditions, malfunctioned due to sensor errors, causing the pilots to lose control.

How many people died in the Boeing 737 MAX crashes?

A total of 346 people died in the two crashes. The first occurred in October 2018 (Lion Air Flight 610) and the second in March 2019 (Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302).

Has Boeing accepted responsibility for the crashes?

Yes, Boeing acknowledged liability for compensatory damages related to the Ethiopian Airlines crash in 2021 and has since paid billions in settlements and other compensation. The company has also apologized publicly and taken responsibility.

How much has Boeing paid in settlements so far?

While exact figures vary, Boeing has paid more than $2.5 billion in total settlements and penalties, including payments to victims’ families, airline customers, and regulatory penalties.

Are there more lawsuits pending against Boeing?

Yes, although over 90% of the claims have been resolved, additional lawsuits are still pending. Two trials are scheduled for July and November 2025.

What is the current status of the Boeing 737 MAX aircraft?

After significant safety modifications and regulatory scrutiny, the Boeing 737 MAX returned to service in late 2020 and is now operating under strict guidelines. It is back in commercial use around the world.

Why is Boeing facing criminal charges?

Boeing was accused of misleading federal regulators about the safety system (MCAS) involved in the crashes. The company is now negotiating a revised plea deal after allegedly violating a 2021 agreement that had protected it from prosecution.

What is the reaction of the victims’ families to Boeing's plea deal?

Many family members have criticized the proposed plea agreement, calling it too lenient and demanding greater accountability for the loss of their loved ones.