A US jury in Chicago ruled on May 22, 2026, that Boeing is not liable for financial losses incurred by LOT Polish Airlines due to the global grounding of the 737 MAX aircraft. The grounding followed two fatal crashes—Lion Air Flight 610 in October 2018 and Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 in March 2019—which killed 346 people.
LOT had sought compensation for costs related to the 20-month grounding, which began in March 2019 after the second crash. The airline argued that Boeing's design flaws and failure to disclose safety issues caused the grounding and subsequent financial harm.
The jury, however, found that Boeing did not breach its contract with LOT. The verdict is a significant legal win for Boeing, which has faced numerous lawsuits from airlines, victims' families, and shareholders over the 737 MAX crisis.
Boeing has previously settled criminal charges with the U.S. Department of Justice, paying $2.5 billion in January 2021, and has compensated many airlines for grounding-related losses. However, this case was closely watched as it tested Boeing's liability in civil contract disputes.
LOT Polish Airlines said it was disappointed with the verdict and is considering an appeal. Boeing did not immediately comment on the ruling.
