Reading Room Document

Tort Liability of the United States and a Commercial Air Carrier Arising Out of Government Action During a Commercial Aircraft Hijacking

This document addresses the management of aircraft hijackings and the liability of the United States and commercial air carriers for actions taken during a hijacking. The document concludes that a carrier would be strictly liable for up to $75,000 in damages per person for injuries in a hijacking, regardless of the actions of the United States. It also discusses the authority of the FAA and FBI to enter into indemnity agreements with carriers and the liability of the United States for actions taken during a hijacking. The questions presented for review include the liability of air carriers for actions of the U.S. Government during a hijacking, the authority of the FAA and FBI to enter into hold harmless agreements, and the liability of the U.S. Government for actions taken with or without the consent of the air carrier during a hijacking.

September 29, 1978