Boeing’s $50 Million Helping‑Hand: A Post‑Crash Safe‑Harbor for 346 Families
Boeing’s $50 million “financial assistance” fund is finally up and running. Families of the 346 people who lost their lives in the twin 737 MAX tragedies—one in Ethiopia, the other in Indonesia—can now claim a tidy lump of $144,500 (S$199,000) each.
How It Works
- Fast‑Track Claims: The fund’s overseers, lawyers Ken Feinberg and Camille Biros, will accept claims right away.
- No Waivers Needed: Getting a payout won’t strip families of their right to pursue lawsuits.
- Deadlines: Claims must be postmarked by Dec. 31.
- Global Search: Feinberg joked that hunting down heirs in “35 foreign countries” will be “a real challenge.”
Boeing’s Desk‑Notes
CEO Dennis Muilenburg said the company still feels “deepest sympathies” for everyone impacted by the crashes. He added that the fund’s launch “is an important step in helping affected families.” In July, Boeing also earmarked another $50 million to boost educational and economic programs in the affected communities.
Legal Storms and Bugs in the System
Almost 100 lawsuits are currently on the docket, filed by a dozen law firms that represent victims from 35 countries (nine U.S. citizens, 19 Canadians). The plaintiffs are claiming the 737 MAX’s automated flight‑control system was design‑flawed—essentially, it repeatedly pushed the nose down during both tragedies.
While most suits don’t specify a dollar figure, one firm’s clients are chasing $1 billion in damages.
On the Horizon: Returning to Safe Skies
The FAA’s Steve Dickson told Reuters that the certification test flight’s outcome will dictate when the aircraft can resume commercial operations. He expects approval roughly a month after the flight—assuming nothing tops up the plate.
Bottom Line
Stitches are lining the holes in the 737 MAX’s history: Boeing’s $50 million fund for families, the promise of another $50 million for community recovery, and a long line of lawsuits all point to a future that, if handled properly, could let folks feel a little more secure when they board the next jet.
