01656421

Monograph

http://www.trb.org/Main/Blurbs/176739.aspx

Aircraft accidents occur for many reasons, and several theories have been advanced for airport liability. Some cases have alleged, for example, that airports were liable for not maintaining a “safe flight environment” consistent with state laws that govern premises operators. Other cases have alleged liability for violating federal aviation requirements, or have considered the role of federal advisory materials. Failure to issue appropriate NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen), wildlife hazard and management plans, FOD (foreign object debris), and snow and ice control are examples of the types of situations that can generate claims of liability. Airport owners and operators may be unaware of the existence of these cases and the legal theories that can determine liability when accidents occur in the airfield. This digest provides an overview of the legal duties and standards of care that may create liability when operating a public airfield. It begins with a basic discussion of negligence principles. It then reviews duties and standards of care in an airfield accident context, including the extent to which federal preemption may apply. Finally, the digest concludes with a section discussing many types of airfield conditions that have allegedly contributed to an accident or to liability concerns in past cases. This digest will be helpful to airport operators and their legal counsel as they research these responsibilities at their individual airports.

ACRP Project 11-01, Topic 08-02

English

49p

2017-10

ACRP Legal Research Digest

978030944660

Digital/other

Air transportation crashes; Landing fields; Legal responsibility; Liability

Aviation; Law; Safety and Human Factors

TRIS, TRB, ATRI

Jan 12 2018 10:56AM