DOJ Delays Boeing Plea Agreement and Fine

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has delayed finalizing its plea agreement with Boeing regarding the aerospace company's alleged fraud connected to two fatal 737 MAX crashes. Boeing plans to plead guilty to a felony fraud charge and pay a $243.6 million fine, with the detailed plea agreement expected to be filed next week. The agreement includes appointing an independent monitor to oversee Boeing's compliance for three years, a move seen as critical for enhancing future safety. Some families of the crash victims oppose the plea deal, advocating for a trial and a heftier $24 billion fine. Experts believe the monitor's effectiveness will be pivotal in preventing future tragedies. The DOJ has revised its approach to selecting the monitor, opting for a more transparent process involving public job postings instead of allowing Boeing significant influence in the selection.