What are the laws surrounding aircraft accidents and liability?

In Pennsylvania, aircraft accidents and liability are governed by the Pennsylvania Aviation Act. The Act sets forth the rights and obligations of aircraft owners, operators, and passengers in the event of an aircraft accident. Under the Act, aircraft owners are responsible for ensuring that the aircraft is in good working order and that all passengers aboard have received adequate instruction and safety training before flying. Aircraft operators must follow all federal and state regulations in regards to licensing, and operators of passenger-carrying aircraft must maintain a valid insurance policy. In the event of an aircraft accident, the responsible parties are liable for all damages caused, except when the accident was caused by an act of God or a sudden and unforeseeable mechanical failure. Additionally, in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct of an aircraft operator, all individuals who were injured as a result of the accident may be entitled to compensatory damages. To protect passengers in the case of aircraft accidents, all aircraft owners and operators in Pennsylvania must carry insurance with coverage limits of at least $1,000,000 per passenger. If an aircraft accident results in death or severe injury, the insurance policy may need to cover additional damages. Overall, the Aviation Act in Pennsylvania serves to ensure the safety of everyone operating an aircraft and requires that all owners and operators are held liable for any damages caused in the event of an accident.

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