Airports are busy places that can be chaotic to navigate. Between long lines, passengers in a rush, carrying around heavy luggage, and constantly changing environments, it’s no surprise that accidents happen. Maybe you slipped on a freshly mopped floor with no sign, or tripped over poorly placed equipment near a gate. However it happened, if you were hurt at an airport, the big question is: who’s responsible?
Unlike a neighborhood grocery store, where it’s usually clear who owns and operates the property, airports involve a lot of different players. You’ve got the airport authority, airlines, cleaning companies, security staff, retail vendors, and more. So when something goes wrong, figuring out who’s actually at fault can be a challenge.
In this article, we will take a look at how liability works in these types of cases, what you should do if you’re injured, and how the law might apply to your situation.
While reading our guide can help, always consult with a trusted personal injury attorney for legal advice. Never assume you know more than a legal expert.
Common Accidents That Lead to Injury at the Airport
A lot can go wrong in a crowded terminal or baggage claim area. Here are some of the most common types of airport-related accidents we see:
- Slipping on spilled liquids or wet floors
- Tripping on torn carpeting or loose cables
- Getting hit by luggage carts or airport service vehicles
- Falling due to escalator or elevator malfunctions
- Injuries caused by falling objects, like overhead luggage or maintenance tools
- Accidents involving shuttle buses or people movers
These injuries range from minor bruises to more serious conditions like broken bones, concussions, or back injuries. Regardless of the severity, your ability to recover damages depends on showing someone failed to keep the area safe.
So, Who Could Be Held Responsible?
This is where things get tricky. Unlike a traditional store or office, airports are run by a patchwork of organizations, each responsible for a different slice of operations. Here’s how liability might be shared:
1. Airport Management or Government Authorities
Most large airports are operated by a city, county, or port authority. These agencies are generally in charge of maintaining public spaces like terminals, bathrooms, sidewalks, and parking areas. If your accident happened in one of these areas, the airport authority may be the one responsible.
However, because these entities are often government-run, special rules may apply. You might have to notify them quickly—sometimes within 90 to 180 days—to preserve your right to bring a claim.
2. The Airline
Airlines usually control specific areas like ticket counters, gates, jet bridges, and parts of the tarmac. If your injury happened while boarding, disembarking, or dealing with airline staff, the airline could be liable.
3. Vendors and Maintenance Companies
Many of the shops, restaurants, and janitorial crews inside an airport are operated by outside contractors. If you slipped near a food court or tripped over a cleaning cart left unattended, the company in charge of that area might be to blame.
4. Other Individuals
Sometimes, another passenger is the one who caused your injury—maybe they dropped a heavy bag on your foot or pushed past you while boarding. In these cases, that person’s liability (or their homeowner’s or travel insurance) could be considered.
What the Law Says
Airport injury claims usually fall under what’s known as premises liability. This legal concept says that whoever is in control of a space has a duty to keep it safe for people who are lawfully on the property. That includes inspecting the premises regularly, fixing hazards promptly, or warning people if a danger can’t be addressed right away.
To prove a premises liability claim, you generally have to show:
- The property owner or operator knew—or should have known—about the hazard
- They didn’t take reasonable steps to fix it or warn you
- That failure led directly to your injury
State laws vary, and if you’re dealing with a government-run airport, additional legal procedures and shorter deadlines may apply.
What to Do If You're Hurt at an Airport
Here’s what we recommend if you’re injured while traveling:
- Get medical attention immediately. It’s important to make sure you're okay and to document your injury.
- Tell airport staff what happened. Request an incident report and get the names of the employees you spoke with.
- Take photos of the area, your injuries, and anything that contributed to the fall or accident.
- Collect names and contact info for any witnesses.
- Hold onto receipts, medical records, and travel documents related to your trip.
Call Brandon J. Broderick For Legal Help
As if dealing with an injury while traveling isn’t stressful enough, trying to figure out who’s responsible, file paperwork, and deal with insurance while recovering just adds to the frustration.
Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law has helped people just like you recover compensation after airport injuries. We know how to handle complex cases involving airlines, government entities, and private contractors.
Contact us today to discuss your case and find out what steps you need to take next.