Historic Verdict in Chicago Court
A federal jury in Chicago has delivered a landmark decision, ordering Boeing to pay over $28 million to the family of Shikha Garg, a United Nations environmental consultant who tragically lost her life in the 2019 Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 crash. This verdict marks the first civil trial outcome among numerous lawsuits filed against Boeing following the deadly 737 MAX crashes in Ethiopia and Indonesia, which together claimed 346 lives. The decision, announced on November 13, underscores the ongoing legal battles surrounding the aircraft manufacturer's role in the disasters.
Shikha Garg was among the 157 passengers and crew members killed when the Boeing 737 MAX jet crashed shortly after takeoff from Addis Ababa on March 10, 2019. The jury's award, which includes compensation for emotional and financial losses, also comes with an additional 26 percent interest, bringing the total payout to nearly $35.8 million. A separate $3.4 million settlement for Garg's husband further adds to the financial restitution for the family.
Details of the Case and Boeing's Response
The trial focused on several contentious issues, including whether Garg suffered pain in her final moments. Boeing argued that passengers did not experience physical pain before the impact, a point of significant debate during the proceedings. However, the jury ultimately sided with the family, recognizing the profound loss and suffering endured as a result of the crash.
In response to the verdict, Boeing issued a statement expressing condolences to the families of all victims. 'While we have resolved the vast majority of these claims through settlements, families are also entitled to pursue their claims through damages trials in court, and we respect their right to do so,' a Boeing spokesperson noted. This acknowledgment highlights the company's approach to handling the numerous legal challenges stemming from the 737 MAX incidents, with many cases already settled out of court.
Broader Implications for Boeing and Aviation Safety
This verdict is a significant moment in the ongoing scrutiny of Boeing's 737 MAX aircraft, which was grounded worldwide for nearly two years following the crashes due to issues with its automated flight control system. The Ethiopian Airlines disaster, alongside a similar crash involving Lion Air in Indonesia in October 2018, prompted intense investigations into the design and certification processes of the aircraft. The outcomes of these probes have led to widespread calls for improved safety measures and accountability within the aviation industry.
As the first of dozens of lawsuits to reach a jury verdict, the case of Shikha Garg's family could set a precedent for future trials. Legal experts suggest that this decision may encourage other families to pursue similar damages trials rather than settle, potentially increasing financial and reputational pressure on Boeing. The company continues to face challenges as it works to rebuild trust with regulators, airlines, and the public in the wake of these tragic events.