Aviation law is the branch of law that covers air transportation, including, among other things, passenger rights, FAA enforcement, regulation of airspace, buying and selling of aircraft, accidents and liability, and aircraft operation and maintenance.

Several administrative agencies regulate the aviation industry. Within the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) governs aircraft and related flight. The several States are prohibited from regulating rates, routes or services of any air carrier authorized under the Federal Aviation Act. However, States are not prohibited from enacting consistent laws, or from altering existing remedies under state law. Internationally, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), an agency of the United Nations, provides regulation and oversight of aviation law.

Additionally within the U.S., the National Transportation Safety Board ("NTSB") is a small independent federal agency charged with investigating every civil aviation accident in the United States. It issues safety recommendations and maintains a database of aviation accidents. The NTSB also provides investigators in aviation accidents overseas involving U.S aircraft manufacturers or where requested by foreign governments.

The field of aviation law is very challenging and complex. Should you need an attorney to represent your interest in any area of aviation, he or she should have experience in aviation matters. Inexperienced attorneys can be lost in the complex web of substantive and procedural law and regulations.

Your attorney should handle your matter with dignity and knowledge and keep you informed of all developments. You deserve to deal directly with the attorney you hire, not a paralegal, secretary or assistant. Personal attention is a premium in today’s world. Also, litigation is not always the best solution for solving matters. Consider an attorney who is adept with alternate dispute resolution—it can save time and money.

Should you have any questions or concerns about aircraft sales, leasing, accidents, contracts, airspace incursions or other FAA violations, drug testing, insurance, medical records or other aviation matters, contact an aviation attorney to protect your interests.