The US Justice Department is urging Boeing to admit to criminal fraud in connection with two fatal plane crashes involving its 737 Max jets, according to sources briefed on the proposed offer by federal prosecutors.

Boeing has a week to decide whether to accept the offer, which includes appointing an independent monitor to ensure compliance with anti-fraud laws.

The case arises from the allegation that Boeing violated an agreement related to a 2021 charge of conspiring to defraud the US government.

The Justice Department informed families of crash victims about the plea offer, leading to emotional responses from some who prefer to see Boeing face trial and pay substantial fines.

One family member criticized the offer as letting Boeing off the hook, while another expressed disappointment at the terms, calling it a favorable deal for the company.

If Boeing declines the plea deal, the Justice Department plans to pursue a trial. Both Boeing and the Justice Department have refrained from commenting publicly on the matter.

The plea deal, if accepted, would restrict the court's ability to increase Boeing's sentence and some families intend to challenge the deal if approved.

Not all families are in favor of the plea offer, with one lawyer describing it as failing to hold Boeing accountable for the lives lost in the crashes and being lenient towards the company.

The terms of the offer have sparked concerns among families and lawyers representing crash victims, expressing disappointment in the Justice Department's approach to the case.

The meeting with families of crash victims came after prosecutors accused Boeing of breaching a previous agreement that shielded the company from criminal prosecution related to the crashes.

A conviction could affect Boeing's federal contracts, but waivers may be granted to maintain the company's eligibility for government contracts.

The plea deal is believed to include financial penalties similar to previous settlements and the appointment of a monitor to oversee Boeing's compliance with the agreement.

Families expressed discontent with the provision allowing Boeing to nominate monitor candidates, advocating for more transparent selection criteria.

The Justice Department did not hint at prosecuting current or former Boeing executives, a demand echoed by families, who have sought accountability at all levels within the company.

The impact of a potential plea deal on ongoing investigations into Boeing remains uncertain, raising questions about the company's liability in similar incidents.