Liability and damage in aviation
Liability and damage in aviation
Damage in aviation frequently arises as a result of delays, cancellations and operational disruptions. The issue of liability in aviation is often complex, as several parties are involved, such as airlines, airports, air traffic control (ATC) and ground handling operators.
Not every disruption gives rise to liability. The decisive factors are whether there has been an attributable breach or a tortious act, and whether there is a causal link between the act and the damage. The assessment of this depends heavily on the specific facts and circumstances of the case.
In the aviation sector, liability is not limited to a single party. In addition to airlines, airports, ground handlers, agents and other service providers may also be liable.
Only demonstrable damage is eligible for compensation. This primarily concerns financial loss, such as additional costs, loss of turnover or disruptions to supply chains. A sound substantiation of both the damage and the causal link is essential.
What we can do for you
- LVH Advocaten advises and acts on behalf of companies within the aviation sector. We have provided support in areas including: disputes concerning liability in aviation;
- contracts and general terms and conditions (including ground handling, agency and leasing);
- assessing claims for damages and recourse options;
- proceedings relating to aviation law and contract law;
- advice on risk mitigation and liability structures.
We work for various parties within the aviation sector, including airlines, airports and various service providers.
Are you facing a claim for damages or a liability issue in the aviation sector?
Please contact one of the specialists at LVH Advocaten in the field of aviation law.
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SPECIALIZED LAWYERS
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More about aviation
Airline liability
What if a passenger suffers bodily injury? Liability in international air transport is regulated in particular by the Montreal Convention (hereinafter: the Convention). The Convention provides rules for European member states on when and for what type of damage airlines are liable. In doing so, the Convention covers both freight and passenger transport and distinguishes between different types of damage.
Defense Against Passenger Claims
Is a flight delayed or canceled or does a passenger face a denied boarding? Then Regulation 261/2004 and the Montreal Convention (Convention for the Unification of Certain Rules for International Carriage by Air) govern the rights of passengers vis-à-vis tour operators and airlines.
Aviation Act: Objection against tariffs and conditions for Schiphol Airport
Airlines rely heavily on airports. Therefore, the way an airport is operated affects airlines. This occurs, among other things, when airports set their rates and conditions. A dispute arose between the airline easyJet and the Authority for the Consumer and Market (ACM) concerning the setting of rates and conditions for Schiphol Airport.


