What is a commercial pilot's primary liability in the event of an accident?

A commercial pilot's primary liability in the event of an accident revolves around negligence and strict liability under applicable regulations. This accountability stems from the pilot's duty of care to operate the aircraft safely and responsibly. If an accident occurs due to a breach of this duty—such as failure to follow proper procedures, inadequate maintenance checks, or violations of safety regulations—the pilot can be held liable for any resulting damages or injuries.

Negligence relates to a pilot's failure to act as a reasonably prudent pilot would in similar circumstances. In addition to negligence, strict liability can come into play under certain regulations, which impose liability regardless of fault. This means that if equipment or operational failures that are regulated by law contribute to an accident, the pilot (or their employer) can still face liability based purely on violation of those regulations, regardless of intent or fault.

Understanding these principles is crucial for commercial pilots, as they must navigate the complexities of safety regulations and operational standards that dictate their conduct and responsibilities.