LaGuardia Lawsuits

Air Traffic Controller Negligence/ Aviation Accident & Plane Crash Claims

Understanding Your Rights After an Aviation Disaster

When an aviation disaster occurs due to an air traffic controller’s negligence—and it results in serious injuries or the tragic loss of life—the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is not immune from liability. Federal courts have consistently recognized that the United States government can be held responsible for damages caused by air traffic control errors.

The attorneys at Sullivan Papain have experience handling aviation-related accident cases and the resources necessary to litigate these highly complex claims. These cases often require working with qualified aviation experts to thoroughly investigate what went wrong and to establish liability.

If you or your family have been affected by an aviation accident, we are available to help you understand your legal options.

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Government Liability in Air Traffic Control Negligence Cases

Courts have long recognized that the United States may be held liable when air traffic controllers fail to exercise reasonable care in managing aircraft operations. Under the Federal Tort Claims Act, individuals and families may pursue claims for injuries or wrongful death caused by such negligence.

Key Court Holdings

Examples of Air Traffic Control Errors

  • Failure to warn of severe weather or windshear
    May contribute to dangerous landing or approach conditions
  • Improper runway or taxiway clearances
    Can lead to collisions involving aircraft or ground vehicles
  • Inadequate staffing or excessive workload
    May result in delayed or incorrect instructions
  • Failure to communicate critical information
    Loss of situational awareness between pilots and controllers
  • Failure to advise of traffic or runway conditions
    Increased risk of runway incursions or mid-air conflicts

Aviation accidents often involve multiple contributing factors. Careful investigation is necessary to determine whether controller error played a role.

Who May Be Eligible

  • Passengers or crew injured in aviation accidents
  • Families who have lost loved ones in plane or helicopter crashes
  • Individuals affected by runway incidents or air traffic control errors
  • Those harmed in accidents where federal responsibility may be involved

Each case is unique, and eligibility depends on the specific facts and circumstances.

Our Approach to Aviation Accident Cases

  • Experience in Complex Aviation Matters
    Our firm has handled aviation-related cases and understands the complexities involved
  • Resources to Support Detailed Investigations
    We work with highly qualified experts to analyze accident causes and liability
  • Experience with Federal Claims
    We are familiar with pursuing cases involving government entities under the Federal Tort Claims Act

No Upfront Fees
We handle cases on a contingency basis

“Sullivan Papain fought aggressively and got the justice my family deserved after a devastating accident.”
— Actual Client

If you have questions following an aviation accident, it is important to act promptly. Legal deadlines may apply, and early investigation can be critical.

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