A US judge has rejected Boeing’s plea deal related to two fatal plane crashes, calling it flawed and unjust. The deal, which included a $243 million fine and independent monitoring, aimed to resolve a criminal fraud charge.

Judge Reed O’Connor ruled that the agreement undermined the court and involved conflicting diversity requirements for hiring the monitor. He criticized the deal for failing to hold Boeing accountable or ensure compliance with the monitor’s recommendations. Families of the 346 victims described the agreement as a “get-out-of-jail-free card” for the aerospace giant.

The Department of Justice is reviewing the decision, while Boeing has yet to comment.

Concerns Over Accountability and Public Confidence

Judge O’Connor expressed concerns over how the deal handled diversity and inclusion in hiring the monitor, arguing it could erode public trust. He emphasized the importance of competency in such a significant case.

Families of victims also criticized the deal as lenient, saying it failed to deliver justice or protect the public. Ike and Susan Riffel, who lost their two sons, applauded the ruling, calling it a step toward “real justice.”

Boeing and the Department of Justice have 30 days to propose a new plan. This decision comes amid ongoing scrutiny of Boeing’s safety practices following two crashes of its 737 Max planes in 2018 and 2019. The crashes, linked to flaws in the flight control system, triggered global outrage and a crisis for the company.

The judge highlighted previous failures by the government to oversee Boeing effectively, stating that further court intervention is necessary to ensure accountability.

Thursday’s decision has raised hopes among victims’ families for stricter terms and meaningful accountability for the company. Advocates argue that justice requires a thorough and uncompromising approach to holding Boeing responsible.