Boeing is set to face a jury trial starting Monday over the fatal 2019 crash of an Ethiopian Airlines 737 MAX plane, marking the first civil case related to the disaster to reach court.
The trial, taking place in Chicago, is expected to last two weeks and initially involved two plaintiffs who lost family members in the crash. However, one of the complaints was resolved in an out-of-court settlement late Sunday, according to a judicial source.
The 2019 crash, which claimed the lives of all 157 passengers and crew on board, was the second fatal accident involving the 737 MAX model within five months. Investigations revealed critical issues with the aircraft's Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS), a flight control system implicated in both crashes.
Families of the victims have initiated this civil trial, seeking justice and accountability from Boeing. They allege that the company prioritized profits over safety by expediting the aircraft's development and downplaying potential risks associated with the MCAS. The plaintiffs argue that Boeing's actions contributed to the catastrophic outcome of the flight.
This trial represents a significant moment in the ongoing legal battles Boeing faces concerning the 737 MAX incidents. While the company has settled many claims out of court, this case brings renewed public scrutiny to Boeing's practices and the safety of its aircraft.
A Boeing spokesperson stated that the company continues to extend its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of all those who perished in the accidents. Boeing maintains that it has made substantial changes to enhance the safety of its aircraft and remains committed to ensuring the highest safety standards in aviation.
As the trial progresses, it is expected to shed more light on Boeing's internal processes and decisions leading up to the 737 MAX's certification and deployment. The outcome may have far-reaching implications for the company and the broader aviation industry, potentially influencing regulatory practices and corporate accountability standards.