15 Best Aviation Accident lawyer at USA

Image: Wreckage of a crashed airplane in a remote field – a stark reminder of aviation accidents. Aviation accidents are rare but often catastrophic. Victims of plane crashes and their families need highly specialized legal help to navigate complex investigations, multiple liable parties, and federal and international laws. An aviation accident lawyer is a personal injury attorney with expertise in airline, aircraft, and aerospace incidents. These lawyers handle everything from pilot error claims to wrongful death lawsuits after jet crashes. They work with aviation experts, engineers, and the NTSB/FAA to uncover the facts and secure compensation. In the U.S., fatal airliner crashes are extremely uncommon (fewer than 10 per year on average), but when they do occur, the results are often devastating. Statistics show that up to 80% of aviation accidents involve some human error, with pilot mistakes accounting for about 53%. That’s why hiring a qualified aviation accident lawyer for crash victims is so important. This article highlights the top firms and attorneys in the USA, and explains how to choose and hire the best legal help after a plane crash aviation accident lawyer

What Is an Aviation Accident Lawyer?

An aviation accident lawyer specializes in cases arising from airplane, helicopter, and private jet crashes. They understand both aviation regulations and personal injury law. After a crash, these lawyers immediately investigate the accident scene: they preserve wreckage, collect flight data recorder (black box) information, obtain air traffic control transcripts, and interview witnesses to determine what went wrong. They have the resources to work with aviation engineers, crash reconstruction experts, and even former FAA/NTSB investigators aviation accident lawyer

Their tasks include:

• Determining liability. In a plane crash there may be multiple responsible parties – pilots, airline companies, manufacturers, maintenance crews, or air traffic controllers. Attorneys identify who contributed to the accident. For example, Clark, Fountain, Littky, Rubin & Whitman note that claims can be filed against airlines (for pilot error or poor maintenance), aircraft manufacturers (for defective design or parts), the government (FAA or ATC errors under the Federal Tort Claims Act), or even private charter companies in private jet accidents.
• Filing lawsuits. Aviation injury or wrongful death claims often fall under federal statutes like the Federal Aviation Act or international treaties (e.g. the Montreal Convention for international flights). A skilled aviation attorney knows which laws apply and where to file suit.
• Seeking compensation. They demand damages for victims – including economic damages (medical bills, lost income, rehabilitation, funeral costs) and non-economic damages (pain and suffering, loss of companionship). In cases of gross negligence, they may also pursue punitive damages to penalize wrongdoers.

Because of the complexities (federal regulation, international conventions, multi-party liability), an aviation accident lawyer is very different from a general injury attorney. They are experienced crash investigators and litigators who specialize in high-stakes, technical cases. Many firms even highlight that their lawyers are or were licensed pilots or engineers, giving them unique insights.

Why Hire a Specialized Aviation Accident Lawyer?

Not every personal injury lawyer can handle an airplane crash case. You want a top aviation accident lawyer who has a proven record in these matters. The reasons include: aviation accident lawyer

• Expertise in Aviation Law: These attorneys know the Federal Aviation Regulations, international treaties, and aviation industry standards. For example, Rapoport Weisberg Sims & VanOverloop points out that most airline disaster lawsuits involve international conventions like the Montreal Convention, which imposes strict liability on carriers. An international aviation accident lawyer will know how to apply those rules.
• Track Record: The best firms have handled multiple crash cases, sometimes winning record verdicts or settlements. Robb & Robb in Florida proudly touts multi-billion-dollar results, including the two largest helicopter crash verdicts in U.S. history. Kreindler & Kreindler (NY) highlights that their attorneys have served as counsel in “nearly every major airline disaster case since 1950”. Such achievements signal deep experience.
• Access to Resources: Aviation cases require costly experts (engineers, pilots, air crash investigators). Established attorneys often front these costs, whereas smaller firms may not. For instance, Clark Fountain’s team mentions working with former FAA and NTSB investigators to reconstruct crashes aviation accident lawyer
• Handling Wrongful Death Claims: When a crash kills passengers, the surviving family can sue for wrongful death. Aviation lawyers are familiar with these claims and the higher damages they entail. They know how to present evidence of negligence or defect. As Wisner Baum’s site explains, they help grieving families avoid quick insurance settlements and instead pursue full justice.
• Contingency/Free Consultation: Most aviation attorneys work on contingency, meaning no upfront fees. Many advertise free initial consultations. For example, Clark Fountain’s website prominently offers a free case evaluation after a crash. This makes high-quality representation affordable even after a devastating accident aviation accident lawyer

In short, hiring the right lawyer is crucial. After a plane crash, you should hire an aviation accident lawyer as soon as possible – even during initial investigations. They ensure evidence is preserved and limit liability defenses by insurers. Don’t rely on a general lawyer “near me”; seek one who specializes in aviation incidents.

Key Areas of Expertise

Pilot Error Cases

Human error is the cause in a majority of airplane accidents. When pilot negligence or mistake is suspected, attorneys will closely examine training records, duty schedules, and cockpit voice recordings. Experienced lawyers will engage pilot experts to determine if the crew deviated from protocols. You’ll want the best aviation accident lawyer for pilot error cases, who understands how to prove pilot negligence and airline liability aviation accident lawyer

Wrongful Death Claims

Plane crashes often result in fatalities. An aviation accident lawyer for wrongful death claims will file suits on behalf of survivors (spouses, children, estates). These claims allow recovery for lost support, funeral costs, and the family’s loss of companionship. For example, Wisner Baum represented families from the Colgan Air Flight 3407 crash (50 lives lost) by suing on wrongful death grounds. Legal specialists know how to handle the sensitive aftermath and fight airlines’ attempts to limit payouts.

Private Jet & Corporate Plane Crashes

Accidents involving small aircraft, private jets, or company planes require lawyers familiar with general aviation. Clark, Fountain et al. emphasize that private plane accidents often involve owner/pilot or charterer negligence. An aviation accident lawyer for private jet accidents will know issues like uninsured owners and different insurance rules. If your accident involved a charter or private plane, seek attorneys who routinely handle such cases (some big firms in Texas and Florida are known for these).

International Flights & Conventions

Crashes on international routes can invoke treaties like the Montreal or Warsaw Convention. Rapoport Weisberg’s firm explains that the Montreal Convention holds airlines strictly liable for passenger injury on international flights, up to set limits. This changes the legal strategy (the airline must disprove negligence beyond a certain compensation threshold). A lawyer with international aviation expertise will pick the right forum and apply these conventions correctly. For instance, Rapoport notes that since 2010 most major crashes involved international carriers, making global know-how essential.

Aircraft Design or Maintenance Defects

Sometimes crashes stem from defective parts or poor maintenance. Aviation lawyers are adept at product liability claims against manufacturers. The Panish law firm notes that although pilot error is common, many crashes also involve maintenance issues. Lawyers will subpoena maintenance logs and design specifications. A knowledgeable attorney will know whether to pursue claims against Boeing/Airbus, engine-makers, or parts suppliers under federal law (which does not preempt state product liability, per Best Lawyers overview).

Choosing the Best Aviation Accident Lawyer

When searching for legal help, keep these SEO-friendly tips in mind:

• Experience and Reputation: Look for a lawyer or firm with a strong aviation caseload. Use queries like “top aviation accident lawyer in the USA” or “experienced aviation accident lawyer for crash victims” and check credentials. For example, Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers lists can identify attorneys recognized in aviation law. Pay attention to notable verdicts or settlements they’ve obtained.
• Free Consultations: Many top firms advertise free case reviews. For example, Clark, Fountain et al. explicitly state: “call [561-899-2100] for a free case consultation!”. Before committing, take advantage of these offers to discuss your case without cost. Query terms like “free consultation aviation accident lawyer” to find firms providing this service.
• Location (“Near Me”): While many accidents involve national or international carriers, having a local presence can matter. A lawyer near me may be more readily available for meetings, but also consider where the crash occurred. If the flight was domestic, a lawyer in that state or the crash location might be useful. If it was overseas, an international aviation accident lawyer (often based in major cities like New York or Chicago) is key.
• Communication and Empathy: This is a traumatic time. Choose an attorney who listens and communicates clearly. Many victims praise firms that “lift the burden” from families. A firm’s website or reviews can indicate how they treat clients. SEO phrases like “experienced aviation accident lawyer for crash victims” often highlight compassion and understanding.
• Affordability: Aviation cases typically use contingency fees (lawyer gets a percentage of recovery). This means no upfront legal fees, making services affordable to victims. Search for “affordable aviation accident lawyer services” and you’ll find firms emphasizing no-fee-unless-we-win. Always confirm the fee structure in your free consultation.
• Multi-disciplinary Team: The best aviation law firms have in-house investigators, access to flight data analysts, and ties to experts. Firms like Kreindler & Kreindler even employ former pilots and engineers. In your search, look for lawyers who describe a team approach. Websites that mention FAA/NTSB liaison work or in-depth investigations indicate thorough representation.
• Track Record: Finally, research verdicts and settlements. As Robb & Robb’s site shows, top firms highlight record-setting results. A firm willing to publicize large recovery figures is often confident in its experience. If possible, read news articles on their past cases.

15 Best Aviation Accident Lawyers in the USA

Below are 15 highly regarded attorneys and firms (in no particular order) that focus on aviation accidents. Each entry includes their location and noted credentials.

1. Clifford Law Offices (Chicago, IL) – Founded by Robert A. Clifford, this firm is well-known for handling mass transportation disasters. Bob Clifford “concentrates its practice in helping victims of personal injury… and aviation and transportation disasters”. He regularly obtains multi-million dollar verdicts and was named one of Forbes’ Top 200 Lawyers (2024). Partner Kevin P. Durkin (35+ years experience) is also a recognized top-tier aviation law attorney. Clifford Law’s aviation team includes former military pilots and tort experts, making them one of the top aviation accident law firms in the country.
2. Kreindler & Kreindler LLP (New York, NY) – A legendary airline crash litigation firm, Kreindler’s aviation practice dates back to 1950. They advertise that a Kreindler attorney “has served as leading counsel in nearly every major airline disaster case since 1950”. The firm’s partners are licensed commercial and military pilots, and Kreindler is often lead counsel in high-profile international cases (e.g. Boeing 737 MAX crashes). Their slogan “Airplane Accident Lawyers Since 1950” reflects decades of focus on air disaster litigation.
3. Wisner Baum (formerly Baum Hedlund Aristei, Los Angeles, CA) – A national personal injury firm with a strong aviation crash practice. They emphasize handling cases against all major airlines and have represented victims in famous crashes (JetBlue, Colgan Air, etc.). Wisner Baum offers free consultations nationwide. They note that aviation accidents can be prevented with proper safety measures, but when they occur, “a compassionate aviation accident lawyer… can help you navigate the claims process”. Their LA base also handles international cases via treaties like the Montreal Convention.
4. Bohrer & Lukeman, PLLC (New York, NY) – A boutique firm devoted exclusively to aircraft accident victims. With over 30 years of experience, Bohrer & Lukeman describe themselves as “a leading aviation accident law firm”. They focus on commercial airline and general aviation crashes. Their website highlights recent work on major incidents (e.g. medical helicopter crash, Potomac mid-air collision) and emphasizes taking on complex lawsuits nationwide. For victims of turbulence injuries or crashes, Bohrer & Lukeman offers expert guidance and free case reviews.
5. Casey Gerry Schenk Francavilla Blatt & Penfield, LLP (San Diego, CA) – A California trial firm with experience in aviation cases. Attorney Scott Cummins (of counsel) has handled multi-million-dollar suits against aircraft manufacturers. While Casey Gerry covers many personal injury areas, their lawyers have prosecuted lawsuits involving airplane components and bad faith coverage. They are known for tough litigation on behalf of crash victims and provide nationwide services.
6. Corboy & Demetrio (Chicago, IL) – A veteran plaintiffs’ firm noted for catastrophic personal injury trials. Thomas A. Demetrio, a senior partner, is an aviation litigation specialist. He has decades of experience in airplane crash cases, alongside medical malpractice and product liability suits. Demetrio is a fellow of prominent trial lawyer associations and has been listed in Best Lawyers in America since 1987. Corboy & Demetrio’s team leverages this trial prowess to pursue maximum recovery in aviation accident lawsuits.
7. Clark, Fountain, et al. (West Palm Beach, FL) – A Florida-based firm emphasizing comprehensive accident investigations. Their aviation section stresses immediate evidence preservation: they work with aviation engineers to analyze wreckage and with FAA/NTSB investigators to obtain reports. The attorneys identify all liable parties – from airlines and manufacturers to government agencies (via FTCA) and private jet operators. They notably advertise free case consultation after plane crashes. Families and survivors searching “aviation accident lawyer near me” in Florida may find this firm’s accessible approach reassuring.
8. Robb & Robb LLC (Winter Park, FL) – A Florida trial firm with a national reputation in aviation and helicopter crashes. They boldly claim to be “the nation’s most successful aviation law firm” with an unmatched record of success. Their résumé includes record verdicts: two largest helicopter crash verdicts ($350M and $116M) and the largest wrongful death settlement ($100M) in U.S. history. The firm’s senior attorneys (like Gary Robb) are authors of authoritative texts on helicopter litigation. Robb & Robb prides itself on obtaining “maximum justice” and has handled everything from celebrity helicopter crashes (e.g. Kobe Bryant case) to fatal small-plane accidents.
9. Rapoport Weisberg Sims & VanOverloop, P.C. (Chicago, IL) – A Chicago personal injury firm with a dedicated aviation practice. They have over three decades of representing aircraft disaster victims nationwide. Their website notes involvement in all types of aircraft cases – commercial, corporate, and recreational – and a “remarkable record of accomplishment” with record-setting compensations for clients. Rapoport attorneys also emphasize their leadership role in aviation litigation and scholarship on aviation safety. They offer a free case review and have expertise in both domestic and international crash laws (the Montreal Convention rules are discussed in their materials).
10. Kennedy Wilshire, P.C. (Beverly Hills, CA) – A boutique firm founded by A. Ilyas Akbari, an experienced aviation litigator. Best Lawyers notes Akbari has handled over 200 aviation cases since 2005. His practice focuses on catastrophic injury and product liability. Kennedy Wilshire combines medical, engineering, and legal talent to prosecute airplane accidents. For example, Akbari’s firm brings multi-million dollar suits against airlines and manufacturers on behalf of crash victims.
11. Stites & Harbison, PLLC (Jeffersonville, IN) – A regional firm with a national aviation defense and plaintiff practice. Attorney Douglas M. Bates, based in Indiana, has been recognized since 2024 for aviation law. He defends and prosecutes aviation cases across the Midwest. Bates regularly speaks at aviation seminars and handles cases involving airlines, airports, and aerospace companies. (Though a defense lawyer, Bates’s inclusion signifies Indiana’s capabilities; he often works with plaintiffs too in complex injury matters.)
12. Watkins & Eager, PLLC (Jackson, MS) – Mississippi’s top plaintiffs firm. H. Rusty Comley is noted as an aviation law specialist. He’s been recognized since 2016 for aviation law. The firm has handled several domestic airline crash cases in the southern U.S. and provides counsel on aviation injury claims. Comley’s experience with product liability and mass torts benefits clients hurt in regional airline incidents.
13. Neal & Harwell, PLC (Nashville, TN) – A Tennessee firm with a national footprint. Thomas H. Dundon is listed in Best Lawyers for aviation law. Though primarily a commercial litigation attorney, Dundon has helped with airplane crash cases and FAA-related claims. Neal & Harwell leverages its litigation resources for catastrophic injury cases, including flight incidents.
14. Holland & Knight LLP (Chicago, IL) – A global law firm with a major aviation practice. Partner Phillip L. Durham was recognized in 2025 for aviation law. Holland & Knight attorneys handle airplane accidents as part of their broader transportation and product liability practice. Their international offices give them reach for cross-border claims. For example, Durham and colleagues are known for complex aviation injury litigation, including high-stakes wrongful death suits.
15. Gray Ritter Graham, P.C. (St. Louis, MO) – A prominent Missouri trial firm. Morry S. Cole, a Gray Ritter lawyer, was listed as a Best Lawyers aviation specialist. He has served as lead counsel in complex transportation cases throughout the Midwest. Gray Ritter’s aviation cases include regional airline crashes and helicopter accidents. Cole’s financial background and litigation skill aid in building strong claims against manufacturers or operators.

Each of the above lawyers/firms offers specialized aviation accident lawyer services. While this list is not exhaustive, these attorneys are among those recognized for handling plane crash cases. If you need help after a crash, you might also search for a “top aviation accident lawyer near [your city]” or use the firm names above to find the closest office. Always confirm that the lawyer’s experience matches your situation (e.g. commercial flight vs. private jet, domestic vs. international).

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When should I hire an aviation accident lawyer?
A: As soon as possible after a crash. Early involvement allows the lawyer to preserve evidence (wreckage, data recorders, flight plans) before it’s lost. If you or a loved one was injured or killed in a plane accident, do not wait. Hiring an aviation accident lawyer after a plane crash immediately ensures critical deadlines are met and prevents insurers from pushing quick settlements. Most lawyers offer free consultation at this stage, so you can assess your options without commitment.

Q: What compensation can crash victims obtain?
A: That depends on the case. Aviation attorneys typically pursue economic damages (past and future medical bills, lost income, property damage, funeral costs) and non-economic damages (pain, suffering, emotional distress). If gross negligence is proved (e.g. drunk pilot, known mechanical defect), punitive damages may also be available. For example, Clark Fountain’s firm highlights that they seek economic damages like lost wages and funeral expenses, along with pain and suffering and punitive awards for reckless conduct. In international flights, treaties may cap some payouts or impose strict liability, but a skilled lawyer will navigate these rules to maximize recovery.

Q: How much does it cost to hire an aviation accident lawyer?
A: Most aviation lawyers work on a contingency fee basis – meaning they take a percentage of any settlement or verdict (typically 25–40%) and you pay nothing upfront. Because of this, you can hire even a high-profile firm without out-of-pocket expense. Many firms also offer no-cost consultations. For instance, Clark & colleagues prominently advertise a free case evaluation. Always ask about fees and make sure you feel comfortable with the arrangement. Affordable aviation accident lawyer services usually means you pay only if you win.

Q: What is a wrongful death claim in a plane crash?
A: If the crash killed someone, surviving family members can sue for wrongful death. This legal claim seeks damages for the deceased’s lost earnings, loss of companionship, and burial costs. Aviation wrongful death suits are often very large, given the high number of fatalities. Lawyers with experience in aviation accident wrongful death claims know how to handle multiple plaintiffs (e.g. widows, children) and to involve all liable parties (airline, manufacturer, maintenance companies, etc.). Firms like Wisner Baum and Robb & Robb have a history of representing families in such tragic cases, ensuring carriers or other defendants don’t evade full accountability.

Q: Are international flights different legally?
A: Yes. International accidents can involve treaties like the Montreal Convention. Rapoport Weisberg explains that under this Convention, airlines are often strictly liable for passenger injuries up to a set amount. This means victims don’t have to prove negligence for a portion of their claim. However, after that limit, the airline must show it was not at fault. Victims usually can file suit in several countries (carrier’s domicile, destination, or passenger’s home). Choosing the best venue and applying the Convention correctly are tasks for an international aviation accident lawyer. If you were on a foreign or international carrier, make sure your attorney has cross-border experience.

Conclusion

Plane crashes are among the most devastating accidents, and victims deserve the best legal help available. An aviation accident lawyer is a skilled professional who can investigate every angle, from pilot error and mechanical defects to complex regulations and treaties. Whether you need to hire near me or across the country, focus on attorneys with proven results and crash-specific expertise. The firms listed above are a solid starting point – each has demonstrated success in aviation cases. Remember to look for those offering free consultations and contingency fees, and don’t delay seeking help. With the right attorney, families can obtain the compensation and closure they need after a tragic aircraft accident.

Sources: Authoritative law firm resources and industry reports on aviation accident litigation.