Aviation incidents can be the result of operator error. They can also occur due to issues with the airplane itself. Sometimes, the issue that leads to an aviation incident begins with a defective airplane component. Components that fail during airplane operation can cause devastating incidents. The result could be the loss of life, substantial injuries or exceptional property damage losses.
Who is liable in a scenario where an aviation incident is the result of a defective plane component?
The manufacturer
The company that manufactured the component or the airplane might potentially be liable. Factors, including quality control testing practices, can influence whether the plane manufacturer or the part manufacturer is liable.
The airplane’s owner
If the owner of an airplane received notice of a recall or was aware that there was a faulty component in an airplane, they have an obligation to address that significant safety concern. The failure to do so in a timely fashion could make them liable for any incident that results.
Mechanics and maintenance companies
Professionals who service and repair vessels can sometimes be liable for incidents involving faulty components. If they continue using recalled components or parts that they know are likely to fail, they could ultimately face legal and financial liability for any incident that occurs when those components fail in a client’s airplane.
Aviation incidents are often difficult to assess. There may be more than one party with a degree of fault and liability for the incident. Those hoping to pursue compensation or minimize company losses may need help looking into liability before the matter goes to court, and that’s okay.
