The first two astronauts to fly Boeing's Starliner capsule said from the International Space Station on Wednesday (July 10) that they were confident in the spacecraft's ability to return them home whenever the company and NASA fix an array of thruster issues that have kept them in space far longer than expected.

"I have a real good feeling in my heart that this spacecraft will bring us home, no problem," NASA astronaut Sunita "Suni" Williams said during the test crew's first news conference since docking to the ISS more than a month ago.

Williams and Barry "Butch" Wilmore, both veteran NASA astronauts and former US&nbsp;Navy test pilots, were launched aboard Starliner from Florida on June 5 and docked the next day at the ISS, where they were initially scheduled to spend roughly eight days.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/starliner-lifts-off-spacecraft-with-sunita-williams-on-board-flies-to-space-after-multiple-delays-watch-729129">Starliner lifts off! Spacecraft with Sunita Williams on board flies to space after multiple delays. Watch</a>

A series of issues with Starliner's propulsion system has extended their mission indefinitely. Five of Starliner's 28 maneuvering thrusters went dead during its 24-hour trek to the station, a propellant valve failed to properly close and there have been five leaks of helium, which is used to pressurize the thrusters.

"We're absolutely confident," Wilmore told reporters. "That mantra you've heard, failure is not an option."

"And that's why we're staying, because we're going to test it. That's what we do," Wilmore said, acknowledging that an ongoing investigation by the US&nbsp;space agency and Boeing involving thruster tests on Earth is key for their return.

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Boeing Starliner remains unreliable, how will astronauts return?

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The current test mission is Boeing's final step before the spacecraft can clinch NASA certification for routine astronaut flights and become the second US&nbsp;orbital capsule alongside SpaceX's Crew Dragon, which has dominated the nascent human spaceflight market amid Starliner's development delays.

NASA officials and Boeing engineers have focused on the faulty thrusters and aim to conduct weeks of further testing before allowing Starliner to return Wilmore and Williams to Earth. That testing includes firing identical thrusters at the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico to get insight into what might be plaguing the thrusters in space.

The testing could last "a couple weeks" or more, followed by a NASA review of the resulting data, Stich said. Starliner is approved to stay docked to the ISS for 45 days, or up to 90 days using various backup systems and depending on the health of its lithium-ion batteries, which have caused concerns in the past.

Though NASA and Boeing have said Starliner is capable of returning the astronauts to Earth in the event of an emergency on the ISS, the capsule is not approved to fly home under normal, non-emergency circumstances until its thruster issues are resolved or at least better understood.

NASA and Boeing officials have emphasized that the two astronauts are not stranded in space.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The first two astronauts to fly Boeing's Starliner capsule said from the International Space Station on Wednesday (July 10) that they were confident in the spacecraft's ability to return them home whenever the company and NASA fix an array of thruster issues that have kept them in space far longer than expected.

The first two astronauts to fly Boeing's Starliner capsule said from the International Space Station on Wednesday (July 10) that they were confident in the spacecraft's ability to return them home whenever the company and NASA fix an array of thruster issues that have kept them in space far longer than expected. "I have a real good feeling in my heart that this spacecraft will bring us home, no problem," NASA astronaut Sunita "Suni" Williams said during the test crew's first news conference since docking to the ISS more than a month ago. Williams and Barry "Butch" Wilmore, both veteran NASA astronauts and former US Navy test pilots, were launched aboard Starliner from Florida on June 5 and docked the next day at the ISS, where they were initially scheduled to spend roughly eight days. Also read | Starliner lifts off! Spacecraft with Sunita Williams on board flies to space after multiple delays. Watch A series of issues with Starliner's propulsion system has extended their mission indefinitely. Five of Starliner's 28 maneuvering thrusters went dead during its 24-hour trek to the station, a propellant valve failed to properly close and there have been five leaks of helium, which is used to pressurize the thrusters. "We're absolutely confident," Wilmore told reporters. "That mantra you've heard, failure is not an option." "And that's why we're staying, because we're going to test it. That's what we do," Wilmore said, acknowledging that an ongoing investigation by the US space agency and Boeing involving thruster tests on Earth is key for their return. Also watch | Gravitas: Boeing Starliner remains unreliable, how will astronauts return? × The current test mission is Boeing's final step before the spacecraft can clinch NASA certification for routine astronaut flights and become the second US orbital capsule alongside SpaceX's Crew Dragon, which has dominated the nascent human spaceflight market amid Starliner's development delays. NASA officials and Boeing engineers have focused on the faulty thrusters and aim to conduct weeks of further testing before allowing Starliner to return Wilmore and Williams to Earth. That testing includes firing identical thrusters at the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico to get insight into what might be plaguing the thrusters in space. The testing could last "a couple weeks" or more, followed by a NASA review of the resulting data, Stich said. Starliner is approved to stay docked to the ISS for 45 days, or up to 90 days using various backup systems and depending on the health of its lithium-ion batteries, which have caused concerns in the past. Though NASA and Boeing have said Starliner is capable of returning the astronauts to Earth in the event of an emergency on the ISS, the capsule is not approved to fly home under normal, non-emergency circumstances until its thruster issues are resolved or at least better understood. NASA and Boeing officials have emphasized that the two astronauts are not stranded in space. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

When will Sunita Williams return home? Indian-origin astronaut speaks from space

Imagine going on a 10 day long trip, you complete your stay and then don't return even after a month and 10 days, this is the plight of the NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore who flew to the space station on the now notorious Boeing Starliner. Watch in for more details!

Gravitas | Boeing Starliner: Sunita WIlliams, Barry Wilmore address press over return delays

Boeing Starliner: Will Boeing Starliner's return be pushed to August?

Technical snags plaguing Beoing Starliner capsules have resulted in two astronauts - Sunita Williams and Billy Wilmore getting stranded aboard the International Space Station - both astronauts have expressed their confidence in spacecraft's ability to bring them back.

Starliner astronauts 'confident' on return trip, Sunita Williams & Billy Wilmore address press

A united airlines Boeing jet lost a main landing gear wheel. This happened while the flight was taking off from Los Angeles. Molly Gambhir telling you more.

Gravitas | Boeing jet loses main landing gear whee

Boeing is navigating turbulent legal waters once again as it engages in talks with the U.S. Justice Department to resolve potential charges linked to fatal crashes involving its 737 max jetliners. Bloomberg News reported that negotiations are underway, involving discussions about the possibility of criminal prosecution and the potential imposition of a monitor as part of any settlement.

Gravitas: Boeing pleads guilty in Max Fraud case, 737 Max victims' families protest deal

Boeing has agreed to plead guilty to a criminal fraud conspiracy charge to resolve a US Justice Department investigation linked to two 737 MAX fatal crashes, a government official said on Sunday (Jul 7).&nbsp;

The plea, which requires a federal judge's approval, would brand the planemaker a convicted felon. Boeing will also pay a criminal fine of $243.6 million, a Justice Department official said.

The charge relates to two 737 MAX crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia over a five-month period in 2018 and 2019 that killed 346 people and prompted the families of the victims to demand that Boeing face prosecution.

A guilty plea potentially threatens the company's ability to secure lucrative government contracts with the likes of the US&nbsp;Defense Department and NASA, although it could seek waivers. Boeing became exposed to criminal prosecution after the Justice Department in May found the company violated a 2021 settlement involving the fatal crashes.

Still, the plea spares Boeing a contentious trial that could have exposed many of the company’s decisions leading up to the fatal MAX plane crashes to even greater public scrutiny. It would also make it easier for the company, which will have a new CEO later this year, to try to move forward as it seeks approval for its planned acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems.&nbsp;

Boeing declined to comment.

Boeing has also agreed to invest at least $455 million over the next three years to strengthen its safety and compliance programs, the official said. DOJ will appoint a third-party monitor to oversee the firm's compliance. The monitor will have to publicly file with the court annual reports on the company's progress.

The Justice Department on June 30 offered a plea agreement to Boeing and gave the company until the end of the week to take the deal or face a trial on a charge of conspiring to defraud the Federal Aviation Administration in connection with a key software feature tied to the fatal crashes.

After being briefed last week on the DOJ's offer, a lawyer for some of the families criticized it as a "sweetheart deal". They have vowed to oppose the deal in court.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-boeing-737-max-parts-missing-from-indian-plane-678384">Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Boeing 737 Max: Parts missing from Indian plane</a>

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The Justice Department's push to charge Boeing has deepened an ongoing crisis engulfing Boeing since a separate January in-flight blowout exposed continuing safety and quality issues at the planemaker.

A panel blew off a new Boeing 737 MAX 9 jet during a Jan. 5 Alaska Airlines flight, just two days before the 2021 deferred prosecution agreement that had shielded the company from prosecution over the previous fatal crashes expired. The agreement only covers Boeing's conduct before the fatal crashes and does not shield the planemaker from any other potential investigations or charges related to the January incident or other conduct.

Boeing is pleading guilty to making knowingly false representations to the Federal Aviation Administration about having expanded a key software feature used on the MAX to operate at low speeds. The new software saved Boeing money by requiring less intensive training for pilots.

The Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS) is a software feature designed to automatically push the airplane’s nose down in certain conditions. It was tied to the two crashes that led to the FAA's grounding the plane for 20 months, an action that cost Boeing $20 billion, and the government lifted in November 2020.

As part of the deal, Boeing's board of directors will meet with relatives of those killed in the MAX crashes, the official said.

<meta name="uuid" content="uuidmThFUz4mJxlO" />

The agreement does not shield any executives, the DOJ official said, though charges against individuals are seen as unlikely due to the statute of limitations.

The agreed penalty will be Boeing's second fine of $243.6 million related to the fatal crashes — bringing the full fine to the maximum allowed. The company paid the fine previously as part of 2021's $2.5 billion settlement. The $243.6 million fine represented the amount Boeing saved by not implementing full-flight simulator training.

Families of the victims of those crashes slammed the previous agreement and earlier this year pressed the Justice Department to seek as much as $25 billion from Boeing.

This year, the DOJ has held several meetings to hear from the victims' families as they investigated Boeing's breach of the 2021 deal.

Boeing has agreed to plead guilty to a criminal fraud conspiracy charge to resolve a US Justice Department investigation linked to two 737 MAX fatal crashes, a government official said on Sunday (Jul 7).

Boeing has agreed to plead guilty to a criminal fraud conspiracy charge to resolve a US Justice Department investigation linked to two 737 MAX fatal crashes, a government official said on Sunday (Jul 7). The plea, which requires a federal judge's approval, would brand the planemaker a convicted felon. Boeing will also pay a criminal fine of $243.6 million, a Justice Department official said. The charge relates to two 737 MAX crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia over a five-month period in 2018 and 2019 that killed 346 people and prompted the families of the victims to demand that Boeing face prosecution. A guilty plea potentially threatens the company's ability to secure lucrative government contracts with the likes of the US Defense Department and NASA, although it could seek waivers. Boeing became exposed to criminal prosecution after the Justice Department in May found the company violated a 2021 settlement involving the fatal crashes. Still, the plea spares Boeing a contentious trial that could have exposed many of the company’s decisions leading up to the fatal MAX plane crashes to even greater public scrutiny. It would also make it easier for the company, which will have a new CEO later this year, to try to move forward as it seeks approval for its planned acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems. Boeing declined to comment. Boeing has also agreed to invest at least $455 million over the next three years to strengthen its safety and compliance programs, the official said. DOJ will appoint a third-party monitor to oversee the firm's compliance. The monitor will have to publicly file with the court annual reports on the company's progress. The Justice Department on June 30 offered a plea agreement to Boeing and gave the company until the end of the week to take the deal or face a trial on a charge of conspiring to defraud the Federal Aviation Administration in connection with a key software feature tied to the fatal crashes. After being briefed last week on the DOJ's offer, a lawyer for some of the families criticized it as a "sweetheart deal". They have vowed to oppose the deal in court. Watch | Gravitas: Boeing 737 Max: Parts missing from Indian plane × The Justice Department's push to charge Boeing has deepened an ongoing crisis engulfing Boeing since a separate January in-flight blowout exposed continuing safety and quality issues at the planemaker. A panel blew off a new Boeing 737 MAX 9 jet during a Jan. 5 Alaska Airlines flight, just two days before the 2021 deferred prosecution agreement that had shielded the company from prosecution over the previous fatal crashes expired. The agreement only covers Boeing's conduct before the fatal crashes and does not shield the planemaker from any other potential investigations or charges related to the January incident or other conduct. Boeing is pleading guilty to making knowingly false representations to the Federal Aviation Administration about having expanded a key software feature used on the MAX to operate at low speeds. The new software saved Boeing money by requiring less intensive training for pilots. The Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS) is a software feature designed to automatically push the airplane’s nose down in certain conditions. It was tied to the two crashes that led to the FAA's grounding the plane for 20 months, an action that cost Boeing $20 billion, and the government lifted in November 2020. As part of the deal, Boeing's board of directors will meet with relatives of those killed in the MAX crashes, the official said. The agreement does not shield any executives, the DOJ official said, though charges against individuals are seen as unlikely due to the statute of limitations. The agreed penalty will be Boeing's second fine of $243.6 million related to the fatal crashes — bringing the full fine to the maximum allowed. The company paid the fine previously as part of 2021's $2.5 billion settlement. The $243.6 million fine represented the amount Boeing saved by not implementing full-flight simulator training. Families of the victims of those crashes slammed the previous agreement and earlier this year pressed the Justice Department to seek as much as $25 billion from Boeing. This year, the DOJ has held several meetings to hear from the victims' families as they investigated Boeing's breach of the 2021 deal.

Boeing avoids criminal trial over 737 Max crashes after accepting plea deal

Boeing pleads guilty in Max Fraud case, Max victims' families protest deal

US aircraft manufacturing giant, Boeing&nbsp;on Sunday (Jul 7) managed to avoid criminal trial after agreeing to plead guilty to charges involving two 737 MAX fatal crashes. Dubbed the more fuel-efficient version of the popular 737 (the best-selling airliner ever), Boeing's fortunes with 737 MAX have been mired in corruption, deceit and death.&nbsp;

The aircraft has been responsible for killing 346 people in its short seven years of service - effectively becoming a symbol of safety concern for Boeing.&nbsp;

Here's a troubled timeline of Boeing's MAX 737 including key events:

August 30, 2011

In an attempt to secure an advantage over rivals Airbus who were given a large order for A320neo by American Airlines, Boeing launched 737 MAX - an update to the 737. However, rather than providing an all-new design, Boeing only installed larger engines in the plane and called it a day.&nbsp;

December 8, 2015

The first 737 MAX rolls out of the Renton factory with a new software dubbed Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System, or MCASm which would go on to make headlines for the wrong reasons.&nbsp;

January 29, 2016

The first 737 MAX takes the flight

March 9, 2017

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certifies the 737 MAX 8 and 11 months later, greenlits the larger version, the 737 MAX 9.&nbsp;

May 17, 2017

The American company delivers the first MAX 8 to Malaysia-based Malindo Air, owned by Lion Air of Indonesia.&nbsp;

September 30, 2018

By the end of the month, Boeing received orders for nearly 5,000 MAX jets.

October 20, 2018

All 189 people aboard the Lion Air Flight 610&nbsp;(a Boeing 737 MAX 8) were killed after it plunged into the Java Sea, minutes after takeoff from Jakarta.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boeing-avoids-criminal-trial-over-737-max-crashes-after-accepting-plead-deal-738824">Also read |&nbsp;Boeing avoids criminal trial over 737 Max crashes after accepting plea deal</a>

November&nbsp;6, 2018

After an initial investigation, the focus shifted&nbsp;to Boeing's flight-control system and its proprietary software --&nbsp;MCAS. Indonesian investigators reveal that pilots of the fateful flight struggled for control as the automatic system pushed the nose of the plane, contributing to the crash.&nbsp;

What is MCAS?

Since Boeing loaded a heavier but fuel-efficient engine in the same chassis, the airplane's weight distribution was altered. Tests revealed that the new 737 tended to automatically pitch up in certain situations.

To prevent such a situation from arising in the air, Boeing introduced MCAS which would&nbsp;automatically push the plane's nose down when it sensed that the jet's nose was pointing too high upwards.

However, pilots were not informed correctly about MCAS, arguing that it&nbsp;was merely a system meant to make the new MAX jet behave just like one of the older 737s.

March 10, 2019

Bearing eerie similarities to the crash in Jakarta, an Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 (737 MAX 8) crashed&nbsp;after takeoff in&nbsp;Addis Ababa&nbsp;killing 157 passengers and crew members.

March 2019

Aviation regulators across the globe ordered the grounding of 737 MAX jets, fearing the safety of passengers.

December 23, 2019

Boeing CEO Dennis Muilenburg was fired as he attempted to pressure the FAA to lift the grounding orders against MAX.&nbsp;

November 18, 2020

The FAA ungrounds MAX after&nbsp;approval of a flight-control software update and other changes by Boeing.&nbsp;

January 7, 2021

Justice Department charges Boeing with fraud but does not press for prosecution. Instead, the DoJ asks Boeing to pay a&nbsp;$2.5 billion settlement.

December 13, 2021

Whistleblowers allege fundamental problems with safety oversight in the aerospace industry in a report to Congress.&nbsp;

September 22, 2022

Boeing and US&nbsp;regulators reach a $244 million settlement in deadly MAX crashes.

January&nbsp;30, 2023

Boeing announced plans for a fourth MAX assembly line in Everett.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-boeing-737-max-parts-missing-from-indian-plane-678384" target="_blank">Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Boeing 737 Max: Parts missing from Indian plane</a>

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August 23, 2023

Boeing reports defects in the aft pressure bulkhead, assembled by Spirit.

January 5, 2024

A MAX 9 depressurises over Portland after a fuselage panel blows out. Authorities ground all U.S. MAX 9s the next day.

(With inputs from agencies)

US aircraft manufacturing giant, Boeing on Sunday (Jul 7) managed to avoid criminal trial after agreeing to plead guilty to charges involving two 737 MAX fatal crashes.

US aircraft manufacturing giant, Boeing on Sunday (Jul 7) managed to avoid criminal trial after agreeing to plead guilty to charges involving two 737 MAX fatal crashes. Dubbed the more fuel-efficient version of the popular 737 (the best-selling airliner ever), Boeing's fortunes with 737 MAX have been mired in corruption, deceit and death. The aircraft has been responsible for killing 346 people in its short seven years of service - effectively becoming a symbol of safety concern for Boeing. Here's a troubled timeline of Boeing's MAX 737 including key events: August 30, 2011 In an attempt to secure an advantage over rivals Airbus who were given a large order for A320neo by American Airlines, Boeing launched 737 MAX - an update to the 737. However, rather than providing an all-new design, Boeing only installed larger engines in the plane and called it a day. December 8, 2015 The first 737 MAX rolls out of the Renton factory with a new software dubbed Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System, or MCASm which would go on to make headlines for the wrong reasons. January 29, 2016 The first 737 MAX takes the flight March 9, 2017 The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certifies the 737 MAX 8 and 11 months later, greenlits the larger version, the 737 MAX 9. May 17, 2017 The American company delivers the first MAX 8 to Malaysia-based Malindo Air, owned by Lion Air of Indonesia. September 30, 2018 By the end of the month, Boeing received orders for nearly 5,000 MAX jets. October 20, 2018 All 189 people aboard the Lion Air Flight 610 (a Boeing 737 MAX 8) were killed after it plunged into the Java Sea, minutes after takeoff from Jakarta. Also read | Boeing avoids criminal trial over 737 Max crashes after accepting plea deal November 6, 2018 After an initial investigation, the focus shifted to Boeing's flight-control system and its proprietary software -- MCAS. Indonesian investigators reveal that pilots of the fateful flight struggled for control as the automatic system pushed the nose of the plane, contributing to the crash. What is MCAS? Since Boeing loaded a heavier but fuel-efficient engine in the same chassis, the airplane's weight distribution was altered. Tests revealed that the new 737 tended to automatically pitch up in certain situations. To prevent such a situation from arising in the air, Boeing introduced MCAS which would automatically push the plane's nose down when it sensed that the jet's nose was pointing too high upwards. However, pilots were not informed correctly about MCAS, arguing that it was merely a system meant to make the new MAX jet behave just like one of the older 737s. March 10, 2019 Bearing eerie similarities to the crash in Jakarta, an Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 (737 MAX 8) crashed after takeoff in Addis Ababa killing 157 passengers and crew members. March 2019 Aviation regulators across the globe ordered the grounding of 737 MAX jets, fearing the safety of passengers. December 23, 2019 Boeing CEO Dennis Muilenburg was fired as he attempted to pressure the FAA to lift the grounding orders against MAX. November 18, 2020 The FAA ungrounds MAX after approval of a flight-control software update and other changes by Boeing. January 7, 2021 Justice Department charges Boeing with fraud but does not press for prosecution. Instead, the DoJ asks Boeing to pay a $2.5 billion settlement. December 13, 2021 Whistleblowers allege fundamental problems with safety oversight in the aerospace industry in a report to Congress. September 22, 2022 Boeing and US regulators reach a $244 million settlement in deadly MAX crashes. January 30, 2023 Boeing announced plans for a fourth MAX assembly line in Everett. Watch | Gravitas: Boeing 737 Max: Parts missing from Indian plane August 23, 2023 Boeing reports defects in the aft pressure bulkhead, assembled by Spirit. January 5, 2024 A MAX 9 depressurises over Portland after a fuselage panel blows out. Authorities ground all U.S. MAX 9s the next day. (With inputs from agencies)

Troubled timeline of MAX 737, the Boeing jet responsible for killing 346

An Air Europa flight from Spain to Uruguay, encountered severe turbulence. In the last 30 days, this is the second such incident of severe turbulence causing inconvenience to passengers. This was no ordinary plane, it was the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, among the largest passenger planes in the world. Some passengers suffered head, neck and chest injuries. How did this happen ? Is climate change causing more turbulence ?

Gravitas: 30 injured as turbulence hits Air Europa plane

An Air Europa Boeing plane made an emergency landing in Brazil Monday after several people were injured by "strong turbulence" on a flight from Madrid to Montevideo, the airline said.

The 787-9 Dreamliner was diverted to the airport of Natal in northeastern Brazil on its way to the Uruguayan capital, the Spanish company said on X, adding that passengers who suffered injuries "are receiving attention."

Uruguay's foreign ministry said in a statement that passengers in need of medical attention were taken to the Monsenhor Walfredo Gurgel hospital in Natal. Several have already been discharged.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-to-criminally-charge-boeing-seek-guilty-plea-736736">US to criminally charge Boeing for two fatal 737 Max crashes, seek guilty plea</a>

A Uruguayan diplomatic source told AFP "between 25 and 30" people were injured, but the number was not final.

Most suffered "mild trauma" and "at first sight, no one's life is at risk," said the source.

Air Europa said a plane will leave from Madrid later Monday to pick up the passengers in Natal and continue the journey to Uruguay.

Also watch |&nbsp;Boeing faces DOJ talks over crashes

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In May, a 73-year-old British man died and several other passengers and crew suffered skull, brain and spine injuries when a Singapore Airlines Boeing 777 hit severe turbulence on a flight from London and was forced to make an emergency landing in Bangkok.

Air safety experts say passengers are often too casual about wearing seatbelts, leaving them at risk if the plane hits unexpected turbulence.

Scientists also say that so-called clear air turbulence, which is invisible to radar, is getting worse because of climate change.

A 2023 study found the annual duration of clear air turbulence increased by 17 percent from 1979 to 2020, with the most severe cases increasing by more than 50 percent.

Monday's incident was the latest drama involving a Boeing plane, after a fuselage panel blew out of an Alaska Airlines 737 MAX in January as well as two crashes in 2018 and 2019 that killed 346 people in total.

In March, the US aviation giant announced the departure of CEO Dave Calhoun as it faced intense scrutiny on safety and manufacturing standards.

The company announced earlier Monday it had reached a deal to buy its subcontractor Spirit in a move it said would boost safety and quality control.

Boeing this week also faces a key turning point with the Department of Justice, which concluded in May the company could be prosecuted for violating a 2021 deferred prosecution agreement reached following the two fatal 737 MAX crashes.

A lawyer for the victims' families said Sunday that the DOJ was offering Boeing a plea deal that would allow it to avoid a trial.

Victims' families have called for the criminal prosecution of Boeing and its executives, and are seeking a nearly $25 billion fine.

An Air Europa Boeing plane made an emergency landing in Brazil Monday after several people were injured by "strong turbulence" on a flight from Madrid to Montevideo, the airline said.

An Air Europa Boeing plane made an emergency landing in Brazil Monday after several people were injured by "strong turbulence" on a flight from Madrid to Montevideo, the airline said. The 787-9 Dreamliner was diverted to the airport of Natal in northeastern Brazil on its way to the Uruguayan capital, the Spanish company said on X, adding that passengers who suffered injuries "are receiving attention." Uruguay's foreign ministry said in a statement that passengers in need of medical attention were taken to the Monsenhor Walfredo Gurgel hospital in Natal. Several have already been discharged. Also read | US to criminally charge Boeing for two fatal 737 Max crashes, seek guilty plea A Uruguayan diplomatic source told AFP "between 25 and 30" people were injured, but the number was not final. Most suffered "mild trauma" and "at first sight, no one's life is at risk," said the source. Air Europa said a plane will leave from Madrid later Monday to pick up the passengers in Natal and continue the journey to Uruguay. Also watch | Boeing faces DOJ talks over crashes × In May, a 73-year-old British man died and several other passengers and crew suffered skull, brain and spine injuries when a Singapore Airlines Boeing 777 hit severe turbulence on a flight from London and was forced to make an emergency landing in Bangkok. Air safety experts say passengers are often too casual about wearing seatbelts, leaving them at risk if the plane hits unexpected turbulence. Scientists also say that so-called clear air turbulence, which is invisible to radar, is getting worse because of climate change. A 2023 study found the annual duration of clear air turbulence increased by 17 percent from 1979 to 2020, with the most severe cases increasing by more than 50 percent. Monday's incident was the latest drama involving a Boeing plane, after a fuselage panel blew out of an Alaska Airlines 737 MAX in January as well as two crashes in 2018 and 2019 that killed 346 people in total. In March, the US aviation giant announced the departure of CEO Dave Calhoun as it faced intense scrutiny on safety and manufacturing standards. The company announced earlier Monday it had reached a deal to buy its subcontractor Spirit in a move it said would boost safety and quality control. Boeing this week also faces a key turning point with the Department of Justice, which concluded in May the company could be prosecuted for violating a 2021 deferred prosecution agreement reached following the two fatal 737 MAX crashes. A lawyer for the victims' families said Sunday that the DOJ was offering Boeing a plea deal that would allow it to avoid a trial. Victims' families have called for the criminal prosecution of Boeing and its executives, and are seeking a nearly $25 billion fine.

Boeing's turbulence woes continue: Air Europa flight makes Emergency landing in Brazil

Boeing has reached a deal to acquire Spirit AeroSystems for $4.7 billion, according to Reuters. This ends month-long discussions on a deal that would aid an otherwise ailing company. Spirit was the manufacturer of the door plug involved in the January incident involving an Alaska Airlines plane. Spirit, along with Boeing, has faced intense regulatory scrutiny after the incident. It has also affected business as the production of both Boeing and Airbus plummeted.

Boeing will reportedly pay $37.25 per share for Spirit Aero in an all-stock deal. The official announcement is yet to come. Boeing is set to assume about $3.5 billion of Spirit's debt as part of the deal. The company already showed $4 billion in losses in the first quarter, with similar expectations for the next. The planemaker's credit rating is just one level above 'speculative grade'.

Homecoming

Spirit AeroSystems was part of Boeing till 2005 when it was spun off as a separate entity. Cut to 2024, and Boeing is facing a terrible year. Integrating with its supplier can potentially offset some losses for the company. The deal, however, is subject to regulatory approvals. Airbus is also set to get a piece of the pie.

Meanwhile, Boeing is facing legal heat with the Justice Department over settlement violations in the 2018 and 2019 crashes. Prosecutors are currently in discussion with Boeing and the victims' relatives to reach a possible solution. The victims and prosecutors have reportedly urged the Justice Department to penalise Boeing for the disaster.

The key question remains: Can integrating with Spirit AeroSystems help Boeing? Nothing will help if Boeing is convicted of criminal charges on July 7.

Boeing has reached a deal to acquire Spirit AeroSystems for $4.7 billion, according to Reuters. This ends month-long discussions on a deal that would aid an otherwise ailing company.

Boeing has reached a deal to acquire Spirit AeroSystems for $4.7 billion, according to Reuters. This ends month-long discussions on a deal that would aid an otherwise ailing company. Spirit was the manufacturer of the door plug involved in the January incident involving an Alaska Airlines plane. Spirit, along with Boeing, has faced intense regulatory scrutiny after the incident. It has also affected business as the production of both Boeing and Airbus plummeted. Boeing will reportedly pay $37.25 per share for Spirit Aero in an all-stock deal. The official announcement is yet to come. Boeing is set to assume about $3.5 billion of Spirit's debt as part of the deal. The company already showed $4 billion in losses in the first quarter, with similar expectations for the next. The planemaker's credit rating is just one level above 'speculative grade'. Homecoming Spirit AeroSystems was part of Boeing till 2005 when it was spun off as a separate entity. Cut to 2024, and Boeing is facing a terrible year. Integrating with its supplier can potentially offset some losses for the company. The deal, however, is subject to regulatory approvals. Airbus is also set to get a piece of the pie. Meanwhile, Boeing is facing legal heat with the Justice Department over settlement violations in the 2018 and 2019 crashes. Prosecutors are currently in discussion with Boeing and the victims' relatives to reach a possible solution. The victims and prosecutors have reportedly urged the Justice Department to penalise Boeing for the disaster. The key question remains: Can integrating with Spirit AeroSystems help Boeing? Nothing will help if Boeing is convicted of criminal charges on July 7.

Boeing agrees to buy Spirit AeroSystems for $4.7 billion

Looks like Boeing is going to get away with just a rap on the knuckles for two fatal crashes that led to deaths of hundreds of passengers. If reports are to be believed, the US justice department has entered into a plea deal with the American plane maker, already under scrutiny for safety issues in the wake of the infamous 'mid-air window blowout' incident.

Multiple news organisations are reporting that, in spite of the grilling faced by Boeing officials at Congress, the firm will get a plea deal.&nbsp;

The fatal crashes involving Boeing Max planes had killed a total of 346 people in 2018 and 2019.

Earlier reports had said the justice department had asked Boeing to either plead guilty on conspiracy charges for the crashes, or face trial.

ABC News reported that the justice department's plea deal offer will help Boeing avoid trial on conspiracy to defraud the United States. It cited the lawyers representing relatives of the victims.&nbsp;

The families have been informed of the deal proposal, said the report.

<h2>What's in the plea deal?</h2>

As per the reports, in return for a guilty plea on a case filed in 2021, Boeing officials will &nbsp;be able to avoid trial.&nbsp;

Specifically, the guilty plea is for alleged misleading of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on the safety evaluation of Boeing 737 Max model planes.&nbsp;

As per the deal, Boeing should appoint an external monitor and pay $200 million in fines, and remain in probation for three years.

<h2>Families of victims slam possible plea deal</h2>

When told about the proposal, the families expressed outrage, according to multiple reports citing their lawyers.

The deal, according to them, does not place accountability or admission of guilt on the conspiracy.

The $200 million fine is a pittance, when compared to the families' original demand of more than $20 billion, which could have sent the company into financial turmoil, or even bankruptcy.

In a statement, the families' lawyers &nbsp;Robert Clifford and Paul Cassell described it as "another sweetheart plea deal" &nbsp;that will "not acknowledge, in any way, that Boeing's crime killed 346 people."

"It also appears to rest on the idea that Boeing did not harm any victim," they said. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Looks like Boeing is going to get away with just a rap on the knuckles for two fatal crashes that led to deaths of hundreds of passengers. If reports are to be believed, the US justice department has entered into a plea deal with the American plane maker, already under scrutiny for safety issues in the wake of the infamous 'mid-air window blowout' incident.

Looks like Boeing is going to get away with just a rap on the knuckles for two fatal crashes that led to deaths of hundreds of passengers. If reports are to be believed, the US justice department has entered into a plea deal with the American plane maker, already under scrutiny for safety issues in the wake of the infamous 'mid-air window blowout' incident. Multiple news organisations are reporting that, in spite of the grilling faced by Boeing officials at Congress, the firm will get a plea deal. The fatal crashes involving Boeing Max planes had killed a total of 346 people in 2018 and 2019. Earlier reports had said the justice department had asked Boeing to either plead guilty on conspiracy charges for the crashes, or face trial. ABC News reported that the justice department's plea deal offer will help Boeing avoid trial on conspiracy to defraud the United States. It cited the lawyers representing relatives of the victims. The families have been informed of the deal proposal, said the report. What's in the plea deal? As per the reports, in return for a guilty plea on a case filed in 2021, Boeing officials will be able to avoid trial. Specifically, the guilty plea is for alleged misleading of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on the safety evaluation of Boeing 737 Max model planes. As per the deal, Boeing should appoint an external monitor and pay $200 million in fines, and remain in probation for three years. Families of victims slam possible plea deal When told about the proposal, the families expressed outrage, according to multiple reports citing their lawyers. The deal, according to them, does not place accountability or admission of guilt on the conspiracy. The $200 million fine is a pittance, when compared to the families' original demand of more than $20 billion, which could have sent the company into financial turmoil, or even bankruptcy. In a statement, the families' lawyers Robert Clifford and Paul Cassell described it as "another sweetheart plea deal" that will "not acknowledge, in any way, that Boeing's crime killed 346 people." "It also appears to rest on the idea that Boeing did not harm any victim," they said. (With inputs from agencies)

Boeing will get another 'sweetheart' plea deal on fatal crashes that killed 346 people: Reports

The US&nbsp;Justice Department will criminally charge Boeing over two fatal crashes and ask the planemaker to plead guilty or face a trial, two people familiar with the matter said on Sunday.

The Justice Department planned to formally offer a plea agreement to Boeing later in the day, which includes a financial penalty and imposition of an independent monitor to audit the company's safety and compliance practices for three years, the sources said.

Justice Department officials plan to give Boeing until the end of the week to respond to the offer, which they will present as non-negotiable, the sources said. Should Boeing refuse to plead guilty, prosecutors plan to take the company to trial, they said.

Boeing and the Justice Department declined to comment. Reuters was first to report the Justice Department's decision to prosecute Boeing and seek a guilty plea.

The Justice Department decided to charge Boeing after finding it violated a 2021 agreement that had shielded it from prosecution over the fatal crashes involving 737 MAX jets. The deadly crashes took place in 2018 and 2019, killing 346 people.

The decision to move toward criminally charging Boeing deepens an ongoing crisis engulfing the planemaker, exposing the company to additional financial ramifications and tougher government oversight.

A guilty plea could also carry implications for Boeing's ability to enter into government contracts such as those with the US&nbsp;military that make up a significant portion of its revenue. Companies with felony convictions can receive waivers, and it remained unclear to what extent the Justice Department's proposed plea deal addresses the issue.

Justice Department officials revealed their decision to victims' family members during a call earlier on Sunday. The proposal would require Boeing to plead guilty to conspiring to defraud the US&nbsp;Federal Aviation Administration in connection with the fatal crashes, the sources said.

The Justice Department's push for Boeing to plead guilty follows a separate January in-flight blowout that exposed continuing safety and quality issues at the planemaker.

A panel blew off a new Boeing 737 MAX 9 jet during a January&nbsp;5 Alaska Airlines flight, just two days before a 2021 deferred prosecution agreement with the Justice Department expired.

That agreement had shielded Boeing from prosecution over the 2018 and 2019 fatal crashes. Boeing has previously said it "honoured the terms” of the settlement and formally told prosecutors it disagrees with the finding that it violated the agreement.

The proposed agreement also includes a $487.2 million financial penalty, only half of which Boeing would be required to pay, they added. That is because prosecutors are giving the company credit for a payment it made as part of the previous settlement related to the fatal crashes of the Lion Air and Ethiopian Airlines flights. The penalty is the maximum legally allowed for the charge.

Boeing could also likely be forced to pay restitution under the proposal's terms, the amount of which will be at a judge's discretion, the sources said. The offer also contemplates subjecting Boeing to three years of probation, they said.

The plea deal would also require Boeing's board to meet with victims' relatives, they said.

Victims' relatives expressed anger toward Justice Department officials during the call, viewing the proposed plea deal as failing to hold Boeing accountable for the fatal crashes, said Erin Applebaum, one of the lawyers representing victims’ relatives. Family members wanted the company to face additional charges and stiffer financial consequences, she said.

“The 737 MAX families vigorously oppose the shameful new sweetheart deal between Boeing and the Department of Justice,” said Applebaum. She called the proposed plea agreement’s financial penalty “negligible” and said victims’ families will oppose the deal in court.

The Justice Department declined to comment on the families' reaction.

It is unusual for the Justice Department to inform other interested parties of its plans before notifying the company in its crosshairs, a third source said. But the Justice Department, led by Attorney General Merrick Garland, has sought to change its tack after facing backlash from the victims' families over the original 2021 agreement.

Victims' relatives found out about the 2021 deal only after it had been negotiated.

US&nbsp;lawmakers in June grilled Chief Executive Dave Calhoun over Boeing's tarnished safety record. Lawyers for victims' family members have cited criticism from Capitol Hill when pressing the Justice Department to prosecute the planemaker and impose a fine of up to $24.78 billion.

Boeing previously paid $2.5 billion as part of the deal with prosecutors that granted the company immunity from criminal prosecution over a fraud conspiracy charge related to the 737 MAX's flawed design.

Boeing had to abide by the terms of the deferred prosecution agreement for a three-year period that ended on Jan. 7. Prosecutors would then have been poised to ask a judge to dismiss the fraud conspiracy charge. But in May, the Justice Department found Boeing breached the agreement, exposing the company to prosecution.

The US Justice Department will criminally charge Boeing over two fatal crashes and ask the planemaker to plead guilty or face a trial, two people familiar with the matter said on Sunday.

The US Justice Department will criminally charge Boeing over two fatal crashes and ask the planemaker to plead guilty or face a trial, two people familiar with the matter said on Sunday. The Justice Department planned to formally offer a plea agreement to Boeing later in the day, which includes a financial penalty and imposition of an independent monitor to audit the company's safety and compliance practices for three years, the sources said. Justice Department officials plan to give Boeing until the end of the week to respond to the offer, which they will present as non-negotiable, the sources said. Should Boeing refuse to plead guilty, prosecutors plan to take the company to trial, they said. Boeing and the Justice Department declined to comment. Reuters was first to report the Justice Department's decision to prosecute Boeing and seek a guilty plea. The Justice Department decided to charge Boeing after finding it violated a 2021 agreement that had shielded it from prosecution over the fatal crashes involving 737 MAX jets. The deadly crashes took place in 2018 and 2019, killing 346 people. The decision to move toward criminally charging Boeing deepens an ongoing crisis engulfing the planemaker, exposing the company to additional financial ramifications and tougher government oversight. A guilty plea could also carry implications for Boeing's ability to enter into government contracts such as those with the US military that make up a significant portion of its revenue. Companies with felony convictions can receive waivers, and it remained unclear to what extent the Justice Department's proposed plea deal addresses the issue. Justice Department officials revealed their decision to victims' family members during a call earlier on Sunday. The proposal would require Boeing to plead guilty to conspiring to defraud the US Federal Aviation Administration in connection with the fatal crashes, the sources said. The Justice Department's push for Boeing to plead guilty follows a separate January in-flight blowout that exposed continuing safety and quality issues at the planemaker. A panel blew off a new Boeing 737 MAX 9 jet during a January 5 Alaska Airlines flight, just two days before a 2021 deferred prosecution agreement with the Justice Department expired. That agreement had shielded Boeing from prosecution over the 2018 and 2019 fatal crashes. Boeing has previously said it "honoured the terms” of the settlement and formally told prosecutors it disagrees with the finding that it violated the agreement. The proposed agreement also includes a $487.2 million financial penalty, only half of which Boeing would be required to pay, they added. That is because prosecutors are giving the company credit for a payment it made as part of the previous settlement related to the fatal crashes of the Lion Air and Ethiopian Airlines flights. The penalty is the maximum legally allowed for the charge. Boeing could also likely be forced to pay restitution under the proposal's terms, the amount of which will be at a judge's discretion, the sources said. The offer also contemplates subjecting Boeing to three years of probation, they said. The plea deal would also require Boeing's board to meet with victims' relatives, they said. Victims' relatives expressed anger toward Justice Department officials during the call, viewing the proposed plea deal as failing to hold Boeing accountable for the fatal crashes, said Erin Applebaum, one of the lawyers representing victims’ relatives. Family members wanted the company to face additional charges and stiffer financial consequences, she said. “The 737 MAX families vigorously oppose the shameful new sweetheart deal between Boeing and the Department of Justice,” said Applebaum. She called the proposed plea agreement’s financial penalty “negligible” and said victims’ families will oppose the deal in court. The Justice Department declined to comment on the families' reaction. It is unusual for the Justice Department to inform other interested parties of its plans before notifying the company in its crosshairs, a third source said. But the Justice Department, led by Attorney General Merrick Garland, has sought to change its tack after facing backlash from the victims' families over the original 2021 agreement. Victims' relatives found out about the 2021 deal only after it had been negotiated. US lawmakers in June grilled Chief Executive Dave Calhoun over Boeing's tarnished safety record. Lawyers for victims' family members have cited criticism from Capitol Hill when pressing the Justice Department to prosecute the planemaker and impose a fine of up to $24.78 billion. Boeing previously paid $2.5 billion as part of the deal with prosecutors that granted the company immunity from criminal prosecution over a fraud conspiracy charge related to the 737 MAX's flawed design. Boeing had to abide by the terms of the deferred prosecution agreement for a three-year period that ended on Jan. 7. Prosecutors would then have been poised to ask a judge to dismiss the fraud conspiracy charge. But in May, the Justice Department found Boeing breached the agreement, exposing the company to prosecution.

US to criminally charge Boeing for two fatal 737 Max crashes, seek guilty plea

US prosecutors have a tough task ahead of the July 7 deadline. That is to gauge the impact of Boeing's safety lapses beyond physical damage. The emotions of the relatives of the crash victims and the plea made to the justice department have complicated the situation for Boeing, who was possibly expecting an 'easy way out'.&nbsp;

Clariss Moore, mother of victim Danielle Moore, gave an emotional statement during CEO David Calhoun's senate hearing, where Calhoun apologised to the crash victims.

She said, 'That safety. That number one priority of Boeing, of their CEOs, of their management, of their engineers doesn't mean anything when 346 people died. We are here today and driving here, it doesn't matter how far, because all I could think is the six minutes and four seconds, of my daughter on that Boeing 37 Max. Did she cry for me? Did she know that would be her last breath? Did someone hold her hands? So Calhoun (Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun), Boeing, CEO, management, did you hear my daughter cry? I want them to answer and give us all the transparency and I want them to be held accountable for murdering 346 lives.''

Still, Boeing is in talks with the department to orchestrate a compromise. Prosecutors are urging for a criminal prosecution, which could be detrimental for the planemaker, already struggling with its Starliner stranded in space. The plethora of safety issues has already dented Boeing's image. A criminal charge can take away their military and government contracts, which would be the final nail in the coffin for Boeing.

The Justice Department is contemplating multiple options. While a criminal prosecution would be the ideal option according to prosecutors and victims' relatives, this could also shake up supply in the global aviation industry. This is because Boeing is a major manufacturer of commercial and military aircrafts and even spacecrafts.

A potential resolution involves setting up an independent committee to follow up on Boeing's safety regulations. Meanwhile, prosecutors are looking at regular safety reports over a three-year period to ensure prolonged safety.

US prosecutors have a tough task ahead of the July 7 deadline. That is to gauge the impact of Boeing's safety lapses beyond physical damage. The emotions of the relatives of the crash victims and the plea made to the justice department have complicated the situation for Boeing, who was possibly expecting an 'easy way out'.

US prosecutors have a tough task ahead of the July 7 deadline. That is to gauge the impact of Boeing's safety lapses beyond physical damage. The emotions of the relatives of the crash victims and the plea made to the justice department have complicated the situation for Boeing, who was possibly expecting an 'easy way out'. Clariss Moore, mother of victim Danielle Moore, gave an emotional statement during CEO David Calhoun's senate hearing, where Calhoun apologised to the crash victims. She said, 'That safety. That number one priority of Boeing, of their CEOs, of their management, of their engineers doesn't mean anything when 346 people died. We are here today and driving here, it doesn't matter how far, because all I could think is the six minutes and four seconds, of my daughter on that Boeing 37 Max. Did she cry for me? Did she know that would be her last breath? Did someone hold her hands? So Calhoun (Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun), Boeing, CEO, management, did you hear my daughter cry? I want them to answer and give us all the transparency and I want them to be held accountable for murdering 346 lives.'' Still, Boeing is in talks with the department to orchestrate a compromise. Prosecutors are urging for a criminal prosecution, which could be detrimental for the planemaker, already struggling with its Starliner stranded in space. The plethora of safety issues has already dented Boeing's image. A criminal charge can take away their military and government contracts, which would be the final nail in the coffin for Boeing. The Justice Department is contemplating multiple options. While a criminal prosecution would be the ideal option according to prosecutors and victims' relatives, this could also shake up supply in the global aviation industry. This is because Boeing is a major manufacturer of commercial and military aircrafts and even spacecrafts. A potential resolution involves setting up an independent committee to follow up on Boeing's safety regulations. Meanwhile, prosecutors are looking at regular safety reports over a three-year period to ensure prolonged safety.

'The Boeing Curse': US prosecutors meet Boeing, crash victims as decision looms

Astronauts aboard Boeing's Starliner are facing a delay in their return due to technical issues. The capsule's first crewed mission might need an extension, and SpaceX's crew dragon could be a backup option. Take a look at our next report...Watch in for more details!

Gravitas | NASA weighs options for safe return of astronauts

Boeing this week revealed that the paperwork could be the reason behind a January inflight incident on a 737 MAX operated by Alaska Airlines that required an emergency landing. The incident involved a door plug blowing off the Alaska Airlines flight, with a probe still underway.&nbsp;

The issue around missing paperwork is not news because so far no documentation has been found that can provide details about who worked on the door plug, which came off the plane after it had reached around 16,000 feet in the air. It led to an uncontrolled decompression and also injured some passengers.&nbsp;

CNN reported that at a briefing for journalists at Boeing’s 737 Max factory in Renton, Washington, the company said that the lack of paperwork is why the four bolts needed to hold the door plug in place were never installed before the plane left the factory in October. The workers who needed to reinstall the bolts never had the work order telling them the work needed to be done, the report further added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-supreme-court-allows-emergency-abortion-access-in-idaho-735723">US Supreme Court allows emergency abortion access in Idaho</a>&nbsp;

The report mentioned that the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) scolded Boeing on Thursday for releasing "non-public investigative information" to the media. The government body said in a statement that the company had "blatantly violated" the agency's rules.&nbsp;

"During a media briefing Tuesday about quality improvements… a Boeing executive provided investigative information and gave an analysis of factual information previously released. Both of these actions are prohibited," the NTSB said.&nbsp;

"As a party to many NTSB investigations over the past decades, few entities know the rules better than Boeing," the NTSB further added.&nbsp;

In response, Boing said, "We deeply regret that some of our comments, intended to make clear our responsibility in the accident and explain the actions we are taking, overstepped the NTSB's role as the source of investigative information."&nbsp;

"We apologize to the NTSB and stand ready to answer any questions as the agency continues its investigation," the statement further said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-tory-business-minister-bets-on-party-win-mp-gambles-ps8000-on-seat-loss-735704">UK: Tory business minister bets on party win; MP gambles £8,000 on seat loss</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas | US House of Representatives passes resolution to investigate Pakistan's 2024 Polls&nbsp;

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<h2>One more whistleblower&nbsp;</h2>

This development came when another whistleblower stepped forward on Wednesday (Jun 26) alleging he was retaliated against after flagging potentially dangerous manufacturing problems on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner.&nbsp;

According to attorneys Katz Banks Kumin, Richard Cuevas filed complaints with two US agencies alleging he was dismissed suddenly in March 2024 after raising concerns over manufacturing deviations in the forward pressure bulkhead, which is critical to managing pressure during flights.&nbsp;

Cuevas is the latest whistleblower to come forward from Boeing's operations, adding to scrutiny of the plane maker following a January inflight incident on a 737 MAX operated by Alaska Airlines that required an emergency landing.&nbsp;

Cuevas worked as a contractor for Strom, who assigned him to Spirit AeroSystems, which builds fuselages for the Dreamliner.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Boeing this week revealed that the paperwork could be the reason behind a January inflight incident on a 737 MAX operated by Alaska Airlines that required an emergency landing.

Boeing this week revealed that the paperwork could be the reason behind a January inflight incident on a 737 MAX operated by Alaska Airlines that required an emergency landing. The incident involved a door plug blowing off the Alaska Airlines flight, with a probe still underway. The issue around missing paperwork is not news because so far no documentation has been found that can provide details about who worked on the door plug, which came off the plane after it had reached around 16,000 feet in the air. It led to an uncontrolled decompression and also injured some passengers. CNN reported that at a briefing for journalists at Boeing’s 737 Max factory in Renton, Washington, the company said that the lack of paperwork is why the four bolts needed to hold the door plug in place were never installed before the plane left the factory in October. The workers who needed to reinstall the bolts never had the work order telling them the work needed to be done, the report further added. Also read: US Supreme Court allows emergency abortion access in Idaho The report mentioned that the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) scolded Boeing on Thursday for releasing "non-public investigative information" to the media. The government body said in a statement that the company had "blatantly violated" the agency's rules. "During a media briefing Tuesday about quality improvements… a Boeing executive provided investigative information and gave an analysis of factual information previously released. Both of these actions are prohibited," the NTSB said. "As a party to many NTSB investigations over the past decades, few entities know the rules better than Boeing," the NTSB further added. In response, Boing said, "We deeply regret that some of our comments, intended to make clear our responsibility in the accident and explain the actions we are taking, overstepped the NTSB's role as the source of investigative information." "We apologize to the NTSB and stand ready to answer any questions as the agency continues its investigation," the statement further said. Also read: UK: Tory business minister bets on party win; MP gambles £8,000 on seat loss Watch: Gravitas | US House of Representatives passes resolution to investigate Pakistan's 2024 Polls × One more whistleblower This development came when another whistleblower stepped forward on Wednesday (Jun 26) alleging he was retaliated against after flagging potentially dangerous manufacturing problems on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. According to attorneys Katz Banks Kumin, Richard Cuevas filed complaints with two US agencies alleging he was dismissed suddenly in March 2024 after raising concerns over manufacturing deviations in the forward pressure bulkhead, which is critical to managing pressure during flights. Cuevas is the latest whistleblower to come forward from Boeing's operations, adding to scrutiny of the plane maker following a January inflight incident on a 737 MAX operated by Alaska Airlines that required an emergency landing. Cuevas worked as a contractor for Strom, who assigned him to Spirit AeroSystems, which builds fuselages for the Dreamliner. (With inputs from agencies)

Boeing says missing paperwork reason for Alaska Air incident; safety regulators take action

NASA weighs options for safe return of astronauts Wilmore & Williams

NASA's Boeing Starliner launch rocketed skyward on Wednesday, June 5th, carrying astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore. Two NASA astronauts, the Indian origin Sunita Williams and Buch Wilmore were supposed to spend 9 days on Boeing's first manned space launch with their return date due on the 14th of June. Both the astronauts aboard Boeing's Starliner are facing a delay in their return due to technical issues. Now the capsule's first crude mission might need an extension... Watch in for more details!

Boeing Starliner: Maiden crewed mission faces extension due to malfunctions

It's been a tough road for Boeing. But an even tougher road for the travellers caught in this turbulence. Many have lost 'confidence' in flying, as safety incidents become a daily occurrence.

Boeing's fallout with safety began in 2018. Since then, many safety lapses have been recorded. The issues amplified in January after the mid-air incident involving an Alaska Airlines 737 plane.

That incident triggered a domino effect, with multiple lapses recorded across months. Just to give you an example of how everyday events have become, yesterday saw a Southwest Boeing 737 diving below 500 ft over Oklahoma and a Malaysian Airlines plane catching fire in the air. One can track Boeing's mishaps across the year and make infinite collages out of it.

What makes matters worse for Boeing are the whistleblower allegations, which affirmed the lack of safety regulations and even 'foul play' to cut costs.

This turbulence in the air led to a lot of regulatory scrutiny and a subsequent leadership shakeup. Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun announced his departure by year-end but is facing legal heat with the Justice Department over potential violations of a 2021 settlement related to the two deadly crashes in 2018 and 2019.

CEO Calhoun's Senate hearing was attended by the relatives of the crash victims, who were unfazed by Calhoun's apology. He said, 'Before I begin my opening remarks, I would like to speak directly to those who lost loved ones on Lion Air Flight 610 and the Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302. I would like to apologize on behalf of all of our Boeing associates spread throughout the world, past and present for your losses.' He added, 'They are gut wrenching and I apologize for the grief that we have caused. And I want you to know we are totally committed in their memory, to work and focus on safety for as long, as long as we're employed by Boeing. So, again, I'm sorry.'

Senator Richard Blumenthal voiced strong concerns over Boeing's commitment to safety. He said, 'You have a duty to demand the highest safety standards and insist that every installation is properly documented and ensure that speak up means, in fact, speak up, not shut up, as it is meant all too often. Boeing needs to stop thinking about the next earning call and start thinking about the next generation.'

The Justice Department has to contemplate either a criminal trial or bail plea for Boeing. Latest reports suggest that Boeing might evade a criminal prosecution with a deferred prosecution agreement. It's often used to strengthen oversight on businesses accused of corruption instead of putting them on trial. Officials reportedly believe this would be a quicker and more efficient solution rather than prosecuting Boeing.

But if Boeing is convicted of criminal fraud, then it would lose all government &amp; military contracts. This can further dent the company's image and revenues already tainted amid ongoing safety challenges.

Meanwhile, Boeing's safety mishaps have hit the 'stratosphere.' Boeing's ambitious space project, the Starliner, is suffering from major safety lapses, leading to an indefinite delay back to Earth. NASA announced on Friday that more time is needed to assess the technical issues encountered during the mission. Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams, the two astronauts aboard, are now stuck in uncertainty as no return date has been announced.

This is even true for Boeing, which now faces an uncertain future with no clear timeline.

It's been a tough road for Boeing. But an even tougher road for the travellers caught in this turbulence. Many have lost 'confidence' in flying, as safety incidents become a daily occurrence.

It's been a tough road for Boeing. But an even tougher road for the travellers caught in this turbulence. Many have lost 'confidence' in flying, as safety incidents become a daily occurrence. Boeing's fallout with safety began in 2018. Since then, many safety lapses have been recorded. The issues amplified in January after the mid-air incident involving an Alaska Airlines 737 plane. That incident triggered a domino effect, with multiple lapses recorded across months. Just to give you an example of how everyday events have become, yesterday saw a Southwest Boeing 737 diving below 500 ft over Oklahoma and a Malaysian Airlines plane catching fire in the air. One can track Boeing's mishaps across the year and make infinite collages out of it. What makes matters worse for Boeing are the whistleblower allegations, which affirmed the lack of safety regulations and even 'foul play' to cut costs. This turbulence in the air led to a lot of regulatory scrutiny and a subsequent leadership shakeup. Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun announced his departure by year-end but is facing legal heat with the Justice Department over potential violations of a 2021 settlement related to the two deadly crashes in 2018 and 2019. CEO Calhoun's Senate hearing was attended by the relatives of the crash victims, who were unfazed by Calhoun's apology. He said, 'Before I begin my opening remarks, I would like to speak directly to those who lost loved ones on Lion Air Flight 610 and the Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302. I would like to apologize on behalf of all of our Boeing associates spread throughout the world, past and present for your losses.' He added, 'They are gut wrenching and I apologize for the grief that we have caused. And I want you to know we are totally committed in their memory, to work and focus on safety for as long, as long as we're employed by Boeing. So, again, I'm sorry.' Senator Richard Blumenthal voiced strong concerns over Boeing's commitment to safety. He said, 'You have a duty to demand the highest safety standards and insist that every installation is properly documented and ensure that speak up means, in fact, speak up, not shut up, as it is meant all too often. Boeing needs to stop thinking about the next earning call and start thinking about the next generation.' The Justice Department has to contemplate either a criminal trial or bail plea for Boeing. Latest reports suggest that Boeing might evade a criminal prosecution with a deferred prosecution agreement. It's often used to strengthen oversight on businesses accused of corruption instead of putting them on trial. Officials reportedly believe this would be a quicker and more efficient solution rather than prosecuting Boeing. But if Boeing is convicted of criminal fraud, then it would lose all government & military contracts. This can further dent the company's image and revenues already tainted amid ongoing safety challenges. Meanwhile, Boeing's safety mishaps have hit the 'stratosphere.' Boeing's ambitious space project, the Starliner, is suffering from major safety lapses, leading to an indefinite delay back to Earth. NASA announced on Friday that more time is needed to assess the technical issues encountered during the mission. Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams, the two astronauts aboard, are now stuck in uncertainty as no return date has been announced. This is even true for Boeing, which now faces an uncertain future with no clear timeline.

'The Boeing Curse': Aviation giant faces a tough road ahead

Boeing's scrutiny is set to widen with the entry of Sanctions. The planemaker is sanctioned by the National Safety Board over breaking an agreement by disclosing details of an investigation into the 737 Max 9 mid-air incident that happened in January.&nbsp;

The agency cited violations of investigative information that were not cleared to release and speculating about the cause of the incident.&nbsp;

This adds to the growing list of troubles Boeing has encountered this year. The fallout which began in 2018, amplified in January 2024 after the mid-air incident involving an Alaska Airlines 737 plane.

This turbulence in the air led to a lot of regulatory scrutiny and a subsequent leadership shakeup. Boeing is already facing legal heat with the Justice Department over potential violations of a 2021 settlement related to the two deadly crashes in 2018 and 2019.

As a result of these sanctions, Boeing will not be able access information related to the investigation. Boeing is also set to appear at a board hearing on August 6 and 7 in Washington. The board will now coordinate with the Justice Department by providing details around these sanctions.&nbsp;

Boeing is already facing criminal prosecution threat, and the latest sanctions are adding fuel to the fire. If Boeing is convicted of criminal fraud, then it would lose all government &amp; military contracts. This can further dent the company's image and revenues already falling amid ongoing safety challenges.

Boeing's scrutiny is set to widen with the entry of Sanctions. The planemaker is sanctioned by the National Safety Board over breaking an agreement by disclosing details of an investigation into the 737 Max 9 mid-air incident that happened in January.

Boeing's scrutiny is set to widen with the entry of Sanctions. The planemaker is sanctioned by the National Safety Board over breaking an agreement by disclosing details of an investigation into the 737 Max 9 mid-air incident that happened in January. The agency cited violations of investigative information that were not cleared to release and speculating about the cause of the incident. This adds to the growing list of troubles Boeing has encountered this year. The fallout which began in 2018, amplified in January 2024 after the mid-air incident involving an Alaska Airlines 737 plane. This turbulence in the air led to a lot of regulatory scrutiny and a subsequent leadership shakeup. Boeing is already facing legal heat with the Justice Department over potential violations of a 2021 settlement related to the two deadly crashes in 2018 and 2019. As a result of these sanctions, Boeing will not be able access information related to the investigation. Boeing is also set to appear at a board hearing on August 6 and 7 in Washington. The board will now coordinate with the Justice Department by providing details around these sanctions. Boeing is already facing criminal prosecution threat, and the latest sanctions are adding fuel to the fire. If Boeing is convicted of criminal fraud, then it would lose all government & military contracts. This can further dent the company's image and revenues already falling amid ongoing safety challenges.

'The Boeing Curse': Planemaker sanctioned over release of 737 MAX 9 investigation details

Headlines of the hour: - Anti-government protest continues in Israel - Kenya braces for fresh protests - Sunak most unpopular PM: polls - Hashemi pulls out of Iran elections - Sudan: 14 areas under threat of famine - U.S. regulator sanctions Boeing

Kenya braces for fresh protests | Hashemi pulls out of Iran elections

Headlines of the hour: - China's Communist Party expels ex-defence minister - Kenya braces for fresh protests - Anti-government protest continues in Israel - Sunak most unpopular PM: polls - Hashemi pulls out of Iran elections - Boeing gets 737s back on track

Sunak most unpopular PM: polls | Boeing gets 737s back on track

NASA's Boeing Starliner launch rocketed skyward on Wednesday, June 5th, carrying astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore. After 14 days of delay NASA announced a further postponement in the Boeing Starliner's return to Earth from the International Space Station. Two NASA astronauts, the Indian origin Sunita Williams and Buch Wilmore were supposed to spend 9 days on Boeing's first manned space launch with their return date due on the 14th of June and now it is unclear when will the two leave the space station. Watch in for more details!

NASA further delays return date of Boeing's Starliner on Earth

From when will Boeing Starliner fly, to when will Boeing Starliner return... It's been a not-so-encouraging maiden space mission for the American giant's space venture. Having gone to the space station with a plan to stay for eight days, Starliner has spent more than 20days at the orbiting lab. There's still no clarity on when astronauts Wilmore and Williams would return. In case Starliner proves technically unworthy for a return trip, what are the alternatives?

Gravitas: Boeing Starliner remains unreliable, how will astronauts return?

After US prosecutors reportedly told the Department of Justice (DoJ), that Boeing had broken a settlement linked to two deadly crashes of the 737 Max aircraft, the US aerospace firm may now face criminal charges. Watch in for more details!

US prosecutors push for criminal charges against Boeing

The 23rd of June, 2024 observes the anniversary of the Air India Flight 182 bombing, an event that remains one of the deadliest aviation incidents involving terrorism. It has been 39 years since the Kanishka, a Boeing 747-237B, was destroyed by a bomb while en route from Montreal to London, with final destinations in Delhi and Mumbai.

39 years since Air India Kanishka bombing: Air India flight disintegrated mid-air

39 years since Air India Kanishka bombing: One of the worst aviation tragedy

After US prosecutors reportedly told the Department of Justice (DoJ), that Boeing had broken a settlement linked to two deadly crashes of the 737 Max aircraft, the US aerospace firm may now face criminal charges.

According to media sources, the DoJ&nbsp;officials have until July 7 to determine whether to press criminal charges against Boeing based on the recommendation of the case's prosecutors.

The Department of Justice (DoJ) informed a federal court in Texas last month that Boeing had broken the conditions of a 2021 settlement when the company promised to pay $2.5 billion (£2 billion) in fines and compensation to airline passengers and the relatives of those who perished in two deadly crashes.&nbsp;

According to the court complaint, Boeing failed to "design, implement, and enforce a compliance and ethics program to prevent and detect violations of the US fraud laws throughout its operations."

These new accusations would be the most recent wave of accusations stemming from the two crashes. In all, 346 people died in the Boeing 737 Max, &nbsp;Boeing's best-selling aircraft, crashes that occurred on planes operated by Ethiopian Airlines and Lion Air in Indonesia in late 2018 and early 2019.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-20-dead-after-major-fire-breaks-out-at-south-korean-battery-plant-734571">At least 22 dead after major fire breaks out at South Korean battery plant</a>

The crash happened because of a new design that automatically lowered the planes' noses to compensate for moving bigger engines forward. The pilots were unaware of a new design. The aircraft was left liable if a single sensor malfunctioned due to the manoeuvring characteristics augmentation system (MCAS).

Due to the deferred prosecution agreement, the corporation was shielded from a fraud allegation stemming from its alleged failure to disclose to aviation regulators certain details about the operation of the system. "Boeing's employees chose the path of profit over candour," the DoJ stated at the time of the settlement.

Watch |&nbsp;Whistleblowers highlight Boeing safety lapses

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The deal was supposed to expire in January, which would have given Boeing one less thing to worry about. Two days before the settlement's expiration, an Alaska Airlines plane underwent a door panel blowout, which caused Boeing to come under scanner&nbsp;once again for its safety record.

The ultimate decision to press further charges has not yet been taken, according to Reuters. A source stated that Boeing may be charged with more offences in addition to the initial 2021 fraud conspiracy indictment.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

After US prosecutors reportedly told the Department of Justice (DoJ), that Boeing had broken a settlement linked to two deadly crashes of the 737 Max aircraft, the US aerospace firm may now face criminal charges.

After US prosecutors reportedly told the Department of Justice (DoJ), that Boeing had broken a settlement linked to two deadly crashes of the 737 Max aircraft, the US aerospace firm may now face criminal charges. According to media sources, the DoJ officials have until July 7 to determine whether to press criminal charges against Boeing based on the recommendation of the case's prosecutors. The Department of Justice (DoJ) informed a federal court in Texas last month that Boeing had broken the conditions of a 2021 settlement when the company promised to pay $2.5 billion (£2 billion) in fines and compensation to airline passengers and the relatives of those who perished in two deadly crashes. According to the court complaint, Boeing failed to "design, implement, and enforce a compliance and ethics program to prevent and detect violations of the US fraud laws throughout its operations." These new accusations would be the most recent wave of accusations stemming from the two crashes. In all, 346 people died in the Boeing 737 Max, Boeing's best-selling aircraft, crashes that occurred on planes operated by Ethiopian Airlines and Lion Air in Indonesia in late 2018 and early 2019. Also read: At least 22 dead after major fire breaks out at South Korean battery plant The crash happened because of a new design that automatically lowered the planes' noses to compensate for moving bigger engines forward. The pilots were unaware of a new design. The aircraft was left liable if a single sensor malfunctioned due to the manoeuvring characteristics augmentation system (MCAS). Due to the deferred prosecution agreement, the corporation was shielded from a fraud allegation stemming from its alleged failure to disclose to aviation regulators certain details about the operation of the system. "Boeing's employees chose the path of profit over candour," the DoJ stated at the time of the settlement. Watch | Whistleblowers highlight Boeing safety lapses × The deal was supposed to expire in January, which would have given Boeing one less thing to worry about. Two days before the settlement's expiration, an Alaska Airlines plane underwent a door panel blowout, which caused Boeing to come under scanner once again for its safety record. The ultimate decision to press further charges has not yet been taken, according to Reuters. A source stated that Boeing may be charged with more offences in addition to the initial 2021 fraud conspiracy indictment. (With inputs from agencies)

US prosecutors push for criminal charges against Boeing over 737 Max crash settlement breach – Reports

It's been a tough road for Boeing. But an even tougher road for the travellers caught in this turbulence. Many have lost 'confidence' in flying, as safety incidents become a daily occurrence. Boeing's fallout with safety began in 2018. Since then, many safety lapses have been recorded. The issues amplified in January after the mid-air incident involving an Alaska Airlines 737 plane. Watch in for more details!

Whistleblowers highlight Boeing safety lapses

39 years since the Air India Kanishka bombing incident

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