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40+ Years – Navigating Complex Airline Accident Litigation

For more than four decades, Podhurst Orseck has set the standard in aviation disaster litigation. From its pioneering role after Eastern Air Lines Flight 401 in 1972 to its leadership in cases involving Malaysia Airlines Flight 370, Lion Air Flight 610, and Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302, the firm has become internationally recognized as the premier law firm for commercial and general aviation crash litigation. Podhurst Orseck is also the only firm in recent history to try a Commercial Part 121 case to verdict, representing families and survivors in hundreds of airline, civilian, and military aviation tragedies worldwide.

Beyond achieving justice for clients, the firm’s work has driven meaningful aviation safety reforms across the globe. Its attorneys have represented victims in nearly every major airline crash of the last 40 years, secured landmark settlements against airlines and aircraft manufacturers, litigated under the Montreal Convention and U.S. aviation laws, and worked alongside leading international experts. With a reputation for fearless advocacy and a proven record of multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements, Podhurst Orseck continues to shape aviation safety policy while protecting the rights of the flying public.

Handling Commercial Airline Litigation with Precision & Excellence

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Commercial airline crash cases are among the most technical and emotionally devastating civil litigation cases. They often involve multinational corporations, international treaties, aviation regulations, and detailed investigations by the FAA, NTSB, and foreign authorities.

At Podhurst Orseck, we lead high-stakes litigation involving:

We work with aviation engineers, accident reconstructionists, and former regulators to analyze evidence and build a compelling case for those harmed.

Aviation Mass Torts & Multinational Claims

Major airline disasters often involve victims from different states or countries, creating jurisdictional and procedural complexity. Our team has the experience and global network to handle multidistrict litigation, foreign claims under the Montreal Convention, and cases involving international codeshares or foreign-operated flights.

Claims Against Airlines & Carriers

Airlines have a duty to ensure passenger safety from boarding to landing. We hold commercial carriers accountable for negligence, regulatory violations, and training, operations, or maintenance failures resulting in injuries or fatalities.

Claims Against Aircraft Manufacturers

When an aviation tragedy stems from design flaws, manufacturing defects, or failure to warn, aircraft and component manufacturers can be liable. Podhurst Orseck has taken on major aerospace companies in product liability cases involving faulty sensors, autopilot systems, engines, avionics, and fuselage components.

In-Flight Injuries & Turbulence Accidents

Not all airline-related harm involves a crash. Passengers can suffer serious injuries due to turbulence, falling baggage, defective seatbelts, or crew negligence. We handle these claims with the same level of detail and strategic focus as larger-scale disasters.

Am I Eligible to File a Commercial Airline Accident Claim?

If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a commercial flight incident—whether a crash, rough landing, or in-flight accident—you may have the right to seek compensation. Common harms that may lead to a viable claim include:

Physical Injuries or Fatalities

We help families pursue wrongful death and survivors seek justice for severe injuries such as burns, brain trauma, spinal damage, or internal injuries caused by airline accidents.

Emotional & Psychological Trauma

Aviation survivors often face PTSD, anxiety, or long-term psychological effects. These injuries may be compensable and should not be overlooked.

Jurisdictional & International Considerations

International airline claims may be governed by the Montreal Convention or Warsaw Convention. We determine where and how to file to maximize your legal options based on treaty rules, ticketing, and airline nationality.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Commercial Airline Crash?

Aviation cases typically involve multiple responsible parties. Depending on the facts of your case, we may pursue claims against:

  • Commercial Airlines: For operational negligence, improper crew training, or policy violations.
  • Aircraft Manufacturers: For defects in design, structure, or onboard systems.
  • Maintenance Providers: For improper inspections, repairs, or oversight.
  • Airport Authorities or ATC: For errors in ground operations, weather monitoring, or air traffic control.
  • Component Suppliers: For failed sensors, wiring, landing gear, or software issues.

We leave no stone unturned in holding every negligent actor accountable.

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Victims and their families may be entitled to substantial compensation for:

  • Medical treatment and rehabilitation
  • Pain and suffering
  • Lost wages and reduced earning potential
  • Funeral and burial expenses
  • Emotional distress and loss of companionship
  • Punitive damages in cases of extreme misconduct

Our team works closely with economists, physicians, and mental health professionals to fully value each claim.

See Our Landmark Cases

Proven Results in Aviation Litigation

Podhurst Orseck is nationally recognized for its work in complex airline litigation. Our firm has:

  • Represented victims in nearly every major commercial airline crash in the last 40 years
  • Achieved significant settlements against leading airlines and aircraft manufacturers
  • Litigated under the Montreal Convention and U.S. aviation laws across state and federal courts
  • Works alongside international experts in engineering, human factors, and crash reconstruction
  • Earned a reputation for fearless advocacy in even the most challenging aviation matters

With decades of experience and a track record of multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements, Podhurst Orseck knows how to navigate the complexity and secure results.

Fighting for Justice: Commercial Airline Accident FAQs

CLEAR ANSWERS FOR THOSE AFFECTED BY COMMERCIAL AVIATION ACCIDENTS

What Commercial Aviation Cases Do You Handle?

We represent victims of international and domestic crashes, hard landings, mid-air emergencies, turbulence-related injuries, and mechanical failure claims.

Who Can Bring a Commercial Aviation Lawsuit?

Injured passengers, the families of deceased passengers, and sometimes crew members may be eligible to bring legal action, depending on flight status and liability.

Is There a Deadline to File an Aviation Injury Claim?

Yes. Laws vary depending on whether the flight was domestic or international. Some claims under the Montreal Convention must be brought within two years. Acting quickly ensures compliance with all relevant deadlines.

How Long Do Cases Against Commercial Airlines Take?

Large-scale airline accident litigation can take years due to complexity, investigation timelines, and jurisdictional issues—but Podhurst Orseck is with you every step of the way.

What Sets Podhurst Orseck Apart in Commercial Airline Litigation?

Our team has led landmark aviation cases and secured significant results for victims. We combine legal strategy with technical knowledge and a deep commitment to justice.

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Put Podhurst Orseck’s Airline Accident Lawyers on Your Side

your trusted commercial aviation accident attorneys

If you or a loved one has been affected by a commercial airline accident, don’t wait to get the legal guidance you deserve. Podhurst Orseck is a leader in aviation law, with the experience and tenacity to pursue justice on your behalf.

We offer confidential consultations and handle commercial aviation cases nationwide. Contact our office today.