Aviation Accidents Caused by Air Traffic Controllers
- In Aviation Law, Helicopter Crash, Mass transit, Personal Injury
- 7 February 2017
At any given time, there are up to 5,000 aircraft in flight across the United States. Air Traffic Controllers direct the air traffic flow for approximately 200,000 aircraft each day. Controllers must manage and monitor all aspects of planes in the air and on the runway in a fast-paced and high pressure environment. Pilots rely on timely and accurate information from Air Traffic Controllers, and if they do not receive it, the results can be deadly. Although Air Traffic Controller error in these intense situations is understandable, it is by no means excusable. If you have been injured, or a loved one was injured or killed, in an aviation accident caused by Air Traffic Controller error, it is essential to contact an experienced aviation law firm with attorneys who are experienced in aviation disasters, as soon as possible.
Causes of Air Traffic Controller Error
Air Traffic Controller error can be caused by numerous factors. The following are examples of some of the most common:
- Understaffing – Was the air traffic control tower understaffed?
- Training – Was the Air Traffic Controller not properly trained or supervised?
- Fatigue – Was the Air Traffic Controller tired because other controllers were taking long rest breaks?
- Failure to Warn – Did the Air Traffic Controller fail to issue “safety alerts” to warn of flight path conflicts with other aircraft?
Who is responsible for Air Traffic Controller Error?
Air Traffic Controllers are employed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). In some cases, the FAA may sub-contract out the services of air traffic control to an independant contractor which provides air traffic services on behalf of the FAA. But either way, the FAA or the independent contractor owe a duty of care to provide a safe environment of air traffic control. If you or someone you know – has been injured or killed because of the failure of Air Traffic Control to provide a safe, air traffic control environment – they should contact an experienced aviation attorney to protect their rights to seek proper compensation for the death of injuries caused by Air Traffic Control.
Damages
The typical categories of recoverable damages in a personal injury claim arising from an aviation accident caused by Air Traffic Controller error include:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and lost earning capacity
- Past and future pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of consortium/association
Aviation Accident Attorney
If you have received injuries in an aviation accident that might have been caused by Air Traffic Controller error, it is essential to hire the services of an experienced and reputable aviation accident attorney and law firm as soon as possible. Bailey & Partners is distinguished by its expertise in this area. Please contact us to discuss your case. We would be happy to provide a free consultation.