Plane crashes and other aviation accidents are rare but not rare enough. Anyone who pilots, inspects or maintains a plane can benefit from a better understanding of the causes of these accidents. Among the most prevalent causal factors are:
- Mechanical errors: Equipment failure is responsible for nearly 20% of airplane accidents. Every one of a plane’s complex systems, including the engine, instrumentation and cabin pressure systems, must be running in optimal condition to ensure safety. When safety protocols fail, we must thoroughly investigate the circumstances to identify liable parties and ensure such failures do not repeat themselves in the future.
- Sabotage: From midair hijackings to tampering with a grounded plane’s mechanical systems, nefarious actors continue to pose a risk to everyone who travels by air. Airlines, airports, hanger operators and other parties bear a legal obligation to protect airline personnel and passengers from such dangers.
- Pilot error: A pilot’s responsibilities go far beyond a plane’s taking off and landing. They must diligently avoid human error in tasks ranging from fine-tuning flight-management software to calculating the necessary fuel uplift. Aircraft pilots remain responsible for nearly 50% of accidents but also serve as a last line of defense when catastrophic problems arise.
With a better understanding of the causes of aviation accidents, we can work toward reducing their deadly impact. If you have been injured or have lost a loved one in a plane crash or any type of aviation accident, consult with an experienced attorney who understands the nuances of this niche area of law.
