Commercial and general aviation have a common goal: to transport cargo or people safely and efficiently from one destination to another. However, there are several differences between commercial and general aviation, and these differences can change how they are investigated and litigated.
Do you have questions about how to approach your aviation accident? Contact an aviation accident attorney who can talk you through your options.
What Are the Differences Between Commercial Aviation and General Aviation?
Non-military flight operations are usually categorized as commercial or general aviation.
Commercial aviation concerns scheduled flights from larger airports with long runways that transport passengers or cargo. When you purchase a ticket to fly on a plane, your travel falls into this category. Pilots who fly commercial aircraft are held to higher medical and safety standards and must hold the appropriate licenses and training before operating large commercial aircraft.
General aviation, on the other hand, includes a wide range of aircraft. All nonscheduled flights that are not operated by commercial airlines or by the military are identified as general aviation. It’s easier to get a license to fly general aviation aircraft, and the safety standards aren’t quite as high as those for commercial pilots.
Why Do the Differences Between Commercial and General Aviation Matter After an Accident?
The distinctions between commercial and general aviation can matter after an accident because these flights may involve different aircraft, operators, and safety requirements. Those differences can also affect how an accident is investigated and which parties may bear responsibility.
Depending on the circumstances, an aviation accident could involve a pilot, an aircraft owner or operator, a maintenance provider, a manufacturer, or another party. Understanding what went wrong often requires a careful review of the flight, maintenance records, and other available evidence.
With multiple parties and potential technical issues involved, determining responsibility for an aviation accident is not always straightforward. A thorough investigation can help clarify what happened and why.
What Are Common Causes of Aviation Accidents?
There is rarely a single explanation that applies to every aviation accident. Investigators may look at everything from the actions of the pilot and crew to the aircraft’s condition and the weather at the time of the flight.
Factors that may contribute to an aviation accident include:
- Pilot error
- Mechanical or equipment failures
- Improper aircraft maintenance
- Defective aircraft components
- Poor weather conditions
- Communication or navigation problems
- Errors during takeoff or landing
In some cases, more than one factor may contribute to a crash. Identifying what caused the accident can help determine whether negligence, an aircraft defect, or another issue played a role. An aviation accident attorney can review the circumstances and explain the legal options that may be available.
Contact an Aviation Accident Attorney Today
If you’ve been injured or are facing a complex legal matter, reach out to Wilson Kehoe Winingham Injury Lawyers to schedule a consultation. Our team serves clients across Indianapolis and throughout Indiana, and we’re ready to pursue the justice and full compensation you deserve.