Practice Area

Aerial Incident

Expert legal help for aircraft accidents, helicopter crashes, and aviation incidents in Bangalore, Karnataka

At SP Law Chambers, we understand that aircraft and helicopter accidents are serious matters that require immediate legal attention. Our experienced aviation law team in Bangalore provides complete legal support for aerial incidents across Karnataka, helping victims, families, pilots, and aviation companies navigate through complex legal procedures.

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What Are Aerial Incidents?

Aerial incidents include any unexpected events involving aircraft, helicopters, drones, or other flying vehicles that result in injury, damage, or death. Common aerial incidents in Bangalore include:

  • Training aircraft accidents at Jakkur Aerodrome – mishaps during pilot training or practice flights

  • Helicopter crashes during sightseeing, emergency medical services, or commercial operations

  • Aircraft accidents at HAL Airport and other Karnataka aerodromes

  • Runway incidents involving commercial airlines at Kempegowda International Airport

  • Drone accidents causing property damage or personal injury

  • Ground incidents at airports, hangars, or maintenance facilities

Recent Aerial Incidents in Karnataka

Karnataka has witnessed several aviation accidents over the years. In 1990, the tragic Indian Airlines Flight 605 crash in Bangalore killed 92 people when the aircraft crashed on a golf course during landing.

More recently, in 2022, a training aircraft toppled at Jakkur Aerodrome when the pilot tried to avoid dogs on the runway, injuring an international skydiving champion.

These incidents highlight the importance of having experienced legal representation when dealing with aviation accidents in Karnataka.

How Aviation Investigations Work in India

When an aerial incident occurs in Karnataka, multiple agencies get involved:

AAIB Investigation: The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) conducts technical investigations to determine the cause of accidents and serious incidents. They have immediate access to all evidence and prepare detailed reports for safety improvements.

DGCA Oversight: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) handles regulatory compliance and safety oversight.

Criminal Proceedings: For any criminal charges under the Aircraft Act, courts need written permission (sanction) from DGCA, Civil Aviation Security Bureau, or AAIB before starting legal proceedings. Recent Karnataka High Court judgments have emphasized this requirement.

Civil Compensation: Victims and families can claim compensation through civil courts or settlement negotiations, often involving Montreal Convention provisions for international flights.

Our Aerial Incident Legal Services

SP Law Chambers provides comprehensive legal support for aerial incidents in Bangalore:

For Victims and Families

For Pilots and Aviation Professionals

For Aviation Companies

Understanding Compensation Rights

Montreal Convention Benefits: For international flights, passengers and families may be entitled to compensation under the Montreal Convention 1999, which India adopted in 2009 :

  • Strict liability up to 128,821 SDRs (approximately ₹1.3 crore) for passenger death or injury

  • Additional compensation possible if airline negligence is proven

  • Flight delay compensation up to 5,346 SDRs

  • Baggage loss or damage compensation

Domestic Flight Rights: For domestic incidents within India, compensation follows Indian aviation laws and court decisions.

Common Questions About Aerial Incidents in Bangalore

Q1. What should I do immediately after an aerial incident in Karnataka?

Contact emergency services first, then notify SP Law Chambers at 9916957929 within 24 hours. Preserve all evidence, medical records, and documentation. Avoid giving statements without legal advice.

Q2. Can pilots be prosecuted without DGCA sanction?

No. The Karnataka High Court has clearly ruled that criminal proceedings under the Aircraft Act require prior written sanction from DGCA, Civil Aviation Security Bureau, or AAIB. Cases without proper sanction will be quashed.

Q3. How much compensation can victims claim?

Compensation depends on various factors including the type of flight (domestic vs international), extent of injuries, lost income, and applicable laws. Montreal Convention provides up to ₹1.3 crore for international flights, while domestic cases follow Indian court guidelines.

Q4 Which court has jurisdiction for aerial incident cases in Karnataka?

Jurisdiction depends on where the incident occurred, passenger origin/destination, and applicable laws. Karnataka courts handle local incidents, while international cases may offer choice of jurisdiction under Montreal Convention.

Why Choose SP Law Chambers for Aerial Incident Cases?

Aviation Incident Areas We Cover

We handle aerial incident cases throughout Karnataka, including:

If you or your loved ones are involved in an aircraft accident, helicopter crash, or any aerial incident in Bangalore or Karnataka, don’t wait. Contact SP Law Chambers immediately for expert legal guidance and protection of your rights.

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