Airline Liability: Understanding Your Rights as a Passenger
- David R. Shane, Esq.
- Mar 19
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 20

Airline liability refers to the legal responsibility that airlines have for the safety and well-being of their passengers. This responsibility is governed by both domestic and international aviation laws, such as the Montreal Convention and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations in the United States. These regulations dictate how airlines must operate to ensure passenger safety, including how they handle accidents, injuries, and delays during flight.
Under airline liability, passengers may be entitled to compensation if they are injured due to negligence, such as failure to follow proper safety procedures, poor maintenance of aircraft, or improper actions by airline staff. Additionally, airlines are often held accountable for lost baggage, missed connections, and other inconveniences. The amount of compensation or settlement depends on the nature of the incident, the severity of the injury, and the circumstances surrounding the event.
When it comes to international flights, the airline’s liability can extend beyond domestic boundaries and involve complex legal considerations. International agreements like the Montreal Convention provide a framework for claims related to accidents, injuries, and delays, ensuring passengers are protected under specific conditions regardless of where the airline is based.
If you’ve suffered an injury or inconvenience while traveling with an airline, it is essential to understand your rights and seek legal guidance to navigate the complex claims process.
Airline Liability Case Study:
Our client came to us after suffering a head injury while she was a passenger on an international flight. She was leaning down to place a personal item under the seat in front of her when a flight attendant hit her in the temple with a beverage cart. We were able to prove that the flight attendant was not following proper procedures as he moved through the cabin and settled the case against the airline for $249,000.

Conclusion
At Shane Law Marin, we understand the complexities of airline liability and are committed to helping passengers navigate the legal process to ensure they receive the compensation they deserve. Whether you've been injured during a flight or have experienced other airline-related issues, our experienced legal team is here to provide personalized and effective representation. We have a proven track record of successfully handling cases, as demonstrated by our recent settlement of $249,000 for a client injured due to airline negligence.
If you’ve suffered an injury or experienced inconvenience during air travel, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our dedication to protecting your rights ensures that we will fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
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