Protecting Airline Passengers for Over Four Decades
For over 40 years, Podhurst Orseck has been a national leader in representing passengers injured on commercial flights. From cases involving severe turbulence and falling luggage to emergency landings and in-flight crew negligence, our attorneys have built an unmatched record of holding airlines accountable for passenger safety. We have litigated claims under both U.S. aviation laws and the Montreal Convention, representing domestic and international travelers harmed by unsafe conditions, defective equipment, or inadequate emergency response.
Our work on behalf of injured passengers has not only secured multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements, but also advanced meaningful changes in aviation safety standards worldwide. We collaborate with top aviation engineers, medical experts, and former regulators to build strong cases, ensuring carriers are held responsible when negligence or misconduct causes passenger harm. With decades of experience and a reputation for fearless advocacy, Podhurst Orseck continues to fight for airline passengers’ rights and for safer skies for all.
Airline Passenger Injuries Demand Skilled Representation
A unique mix of federal regulations, international treaties, and aviation industry standards governs injuries that occur on commercial flights. Whether the flight was domestic or international, liability may hinge on complex legal principles, including strict liability under the Montreal Convention.
At Podhurst Orseck, we’ve handled cases involving:
- In-flight turbulence and unsecured cabin hazards
- Faulty seatbelts, tray tables, or defective safety gear
- Poorly trained or negligent flight attendants
- Hard landings, sudden descents, and runway overshoots
- Inadequate medical response during mid-air emergencies
- Assaults or passenger-on-passenger violence due to crew inaction
We know how to navigate these claims and aren’t afraid to challenge major airlines in court.
Hold Airlines Accountable for Preventable In-Flight Injuries
Airlines are responsible for maintaining a safe cabin environment. When flight crews fail to follow proper procedures or allow dangerous conditions to develop, passengers can get seriously hurt. We pursue claims involving:
- Head and spinal injuries from falling luggage
- Burn injuries from spilled hot beverages
- Trips and falls caused by cluttered or wet aisles
- Concussions during overhead bin malfunctions
- Physical injuries due to sudden altitude changes or turbulence
Who Can Injured Passengers Hold Accountable?
Depending on how and where the injury occurred, we may pursue claims against:
- Major domestic or international air carriers
- Aircraft manufacturers for faulty equipment
- Airport personnel or third-party contractors
- Cabin crew or negligent pilots
- Airline security or law enforcement units
We take a comprehensive approach to identify all responsible entities and fight for justice.
The Montreal Convention: A Tool for Injured International Passengers
The Montreal Convention may apply if you were injured during an international flight, or even during boarding or deplaning. This international treaty allows injured passengers to recover damages without proving fault, as long as the injury was caused by an “accident” on board.
We help passengers and families navigate:
- Injuries on international flights or during layovers abroad
- Claims against foreign or multinational carriers
- Airline disputes over accident definitions or exclusions
- Wrongful death claims under international aviation law
Podhurst Orseck has a global reach and deep experience with cross-border injury claims.
Assault, Negligence & Crew Misconduct at 30,000 Feet
Passengers have the right to safety, not just from mechanical hazards, but also from violent or reckless behavior. We represent victims of:
- Passenger assaults that flight crews failed to control
- Sexual harassment or abuse during flights
- Overly aggressive restraint or removal from the aircraft
- Crew misconduct that led to medical emergencies
We know how to handle these sensitive claims with discretion, empathy, and strength.
Why choose Podhurst for an airline injury case?
Real Results. Respected Worldwide.
Podhurst Orseck stands out for its extensive experience and success in aviation litigation. Our firm has represented clients in numerous high-profile cases, securing significant settlements and verdicts. Notable achievements include:
Our firm’s commitment to legal excellence ensures that Podhurst Orseck clients receive the representation they need during challenging times.
Explore More Of Our Landmark CasesWho Has a Case After an Airline Injury?
Many passengers aren’t sure whether they have legal recourse after being hurt on a flight. You might have a strong case if:
You Were Physically Injured During the Flight
From permanent disfigurement and scarring and back injuries to cuts, bruises, and soft tissue damage, any injury that occurred due to crew negligence or unsafe conditions may be actionable.
A Loved One Died Due to Airline Negligence
We represent families in wrongful death claims involving fatal in-flight medical events, crash landings, or unchecked violence on board.
You Suffered Emotional or Psychological Trauma
Extreme turbulence, emergency landings, or traumatic in-flight incidents can cause lasting PTSD, anxiety, or depression, especially for children or survivors of near-disasters.
Your Injury Involved Airline Misconduct or Negligence
Airlines can be held liable for the results when they fail to follow safety protocols, neglect medical emergencies, or cause harm through reckless actions.
+1(305) 358-2800What Compensation Is Available After an Airline Injury?
We pursue full and fair compensation for injured passengers, which may include:
- Emergency room visits, surgeries, and rehab
- Lost wages and diminished future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering—both physical and emotional
- Therapy and treatment for psychological harm
- Wrongful death damages for surviving family members
We work with economists, medical professionals, and life care planners to fully assess the value of your claim.
See Our Landmark CasesNational Reputation in Complex Airline Injury Litigation
Podhurst Orseck has decades of experience representing passengers and families harmed during commercial airline travel. Our firm has handled:
- Turbulence-related injury lawsuits
- Cabin assault and crew misconduct cases
- International flight injuries under the Montreal Convention
- Lawsuits involving U.S. and foreign carriers
- Wrongful death claims tied to in-flight negligence
Our team knows how to hold airlines accountable and secure justice for injured passengers—no matter how high the stakes.
Airline Passenger Injury FAQs: Your Rights in the Air
KEY LEGAL INSIGHTS FOR VICTIMS OF AIRLINE INJURIES
Can I Sue an Airline for Injuries from Turbulence?
Yes, in some cases. While turbulence is often considered a known risk, airlines still have a duty to warn passengers, ensure seatbelts are fastened, and properly secure cabin items. If negligence occurred, you may have a case.
What if I was Injured on an International Flight?
International flight injuries are often governed by the Montreal Convention, which provides compensation to passengers hurt during international travel, even without proving airline fault.
Is There a Deadline for Filing a Claim?
Yes. Most domestic injury claims have a statute of limitations between 1 and 3 years, depending on jurisdiction. International claims under the Montreal Convention must usually be filed within 2 years. Don’t wait—delays could bar your right to recover.
Do I Need to Prove the Airline was at Fault?
Not always. In international cases, proving that an “accident” occurred during the flight is often enough. In domestic cases, we help gather evidence of negligence, crew failure, or equipment malfunction to support your claim.
Why Choose Podhurst Orseck for an Airline Injury Case?
Because we’re recognized leaders in aviation law, with a long track record against major commercial carriers and a reputation for excellence in high-profile cases, Podhurst Orseck brings unmatched experience, expert resources, and client-focused representation to every case.
CONTACT PODHURST ORSECK
Don’t Let Airlines Dodge Responsibility
If you or a loved one suffered an injury while flying, don’t let the airline dismiss your pain as just part of the “travel experience.” You deserve answers, accountability, and compensation.
We offer confidential consultations and handle aviation cases nationwide. Contact our office today.