BYIAN MOLYNEAUX

2023-05-31

ethiopian airlines boeing 737 max 8

Markus Mainka / Shutterstock.com

Relatives of those killed in the Boeing 737 MAX 8 Ethiopian Airlines crash can claim compensation, a United States judge ruled.

The judge said the relatives will be allowed to make claims for the for the pain and suffering experienced by loved ones before impact, Reuters confirmed.

“There is sufficient evidence to support a reasonable inference that these passengers experienced pre-impact fright and terror, and that experience is part of the ‘process or manner of death,’” US District Judge Jorge L. Alonso wrote in his ruling.

In November 2021, Boeing admitted liability for the crash after relatives of the victims launched civil legal filings.

At the time Boeing said in a statement: “Boeing is committed to ensuring that all families who lost loved ones in the accidents are fully and fairly compensated for their loss. By accepting responsibility, Boeing’s agreement with the families allows the parties to focus their efforts on determining the appropriate compensation for each family.”

The Ethiopian Airlines jet crashed on March 10, 2019, resulting in the death of 157 people onboard.

AeroTime has contacted Boeing for comment regarding the latest developments.

Boeing Can’t Cut Ethiopian Air Families’ Pre-Impact Damages Law36019:28

Families can seek damages for plane crash victims’ pain and terror, judge rules Irish Examiner12:44

Pain and terror felt by passengers before Boeing Max crashed can be considered, judge rules Mail Online11:37

Boeing 737 MAX Relatives May Pursue Pain and Suffering Claims Insurance Claims Journal11:35

Boeing liable for 737 MAX crash victim suffering Proactive Investors (UK)10:04

Relatives of Boeing 737 crash victims can seek compensation for suffering Financial Mail07:14