First trial set for Boeing in 737 Max crash

The first trial related to the tragic Boeing 737 Max 8 crash in Ethiopia is set to begin on April 7 in Chicago federal court, six years after the disaster that resulted in the loss of 157 lives. The cases, Belanger v. Boeing and Dieci v. Boeing, will address the damages claimed by the families of the victims, with jury selection followed by opening statements the next day. Mark Lindquist, an experienced aviation attorney known for his advocacy for victims, will represent Belanger, who was on his way to a UN conference when the crash occurred.

He left behind his wife Amie and his parents. Dieci, the other plaintiff, was a prominent NGO leader who also left a family in Italy. Lindquist emphasized that the crash was preventable, highlighting the necessity of a jury trial for full accountability. Boeing has acknowledged its responsibility for the crash's cause, which will shape the trial's focus on damages. Meanwhile, the company is also preparing for a criminal case in Texas set for June 2025, indicating ongoing scrutiny of its safety practices.