Gair, Gair, Conason, Rubinowitz, Bloom, Hershenhorn, Steigman & Mackauf HomeTOP Rated NYC Helicopter Accident Lawyer | Airplane Accident Attorney New York
If you or a loved one was injured or killed in a helicopter or airplane crash in New York, choosing a top-tier NYC firm with unmatched resources, extensive experience, and a record of winning major aviation cases can make all the difference. Our aviation accident attorneys are nationally recognized for taking on the most complex, high-stakes cases—and winning. Contact Gair, Gair, Conason, Rubinowitz, Bloom, Hershenhorn, Steigman & Mackauf to discuss your case. The consultation is free.
Why choose our New York Helicopter Accident Attorneys or Airplane Crash Lawyers?
Our top-rated trial attorneys have represented New York and New Jersey victims of almost every major aviation crash in the last 60 years. Our firm's approach to aviation litigation is the same as it is in all of the firm cases--we do not accept representation “in bulk” but rather, approach each case individually. This is a different approach than many other firms in the area of airline crash litigation. Our approach maximizes the ultimate recovery for our clients as they are treated individually and each case is negotiated that way and not in a mass. We are very mindful of the fact that a meticulously prepared case can not only hold those responsible for the plane accident accountable, but can ultimately save lives.
When an airline disaster occurs, victims and their families need the representation of a committed, resourceful law firm to help them accomplish their goals. Our vast experience distinguishes our firm from other aviation firms. The Firm's founder, Harry A. Gair, was universally recognized as the pioneer in the field of aviation crash litigation, and handled such cases as the American Airlines crash in the East River in February, 1959 and Jane Froman and Gypsy Lee Markoff's case against Pan American airlines. Following the Pan American trial, the trial Judge, Aron Steuer, the son of the great trial lawyer Max Steuer, wrote Harry Gair the following letter:
Our partners continued that tradition and have served on the Steering Committee's in many major cases. For example, our partner, Howard S. Hershenhorn, led our firm's successful efforts in representing a client who was a severely injured passenger in the American Eagle flight #3379 airplane crash in Raleigh, N.C. Howard also served on the Steering Committee for all the victims' families and worked with counsel in North Carolina and traveled throughout the country taking depositions of multiple pilots, aeronautical engineering experts and others.
Notable Aviation Litigation cases handled by our firm- The widow of one of the highest ranking executives of Citigroup who was killed in an airplane crash in Brazil while on a TAM (Brazilian airline) airplane that crashed into a building. The case was brought against the airline and the airplane manufacturer in New York and despite multiple attempts to move the case out of New York and back to Brazil we were successful in keeping the case in New York and it was resolved very favorably.
- The family of the President of a major Swiss watch manufacturer who was killed in the airplane crash of Swiss Air flight 111.
- The families of multiple victims of the American Airlines crash over Belle Harbor Queens.
- The family of a passenger killed in an airplane accident while flying in a small Piper airplane which crashed while flying over New England
- Victims of the crash of Continental flight 3407 in Buffalo, NY
- Victims of the flight 3379 crash of American Eagle in Raleigh, NC
We routinely retain forensic economists, life care planners, and financial analysts to assess long-term damages, including lost wages, ongoing medical care, and future costs of living. Our aim is not just a settlement—it's to secure lifelong financial support for survivors and grieving families.
- What types of aviation accidents do your attorneys handle?
- What are the key differences between helicopter and airplane accident litigation?
- Who can be held liable after a helicopter or airplane crash?
- What is the role of the NTSB in aviation accident investigations?
- Can families sue for wrongful death in helicopter or airplane crashes?
- How are damages calculated in aviation crash cases?
We handle a wide range of aviation-related accidents, including:
- Commercial airline disasters
- Private plane crashes
- Sightseeing helicopter crashes
- Medical evacuation (medevac) helicopter accidents
- Corporate charter aircraft incidents
- Crashes involving international or cross-border air travel
Each case is thoroughly investigated with support from industry experts and tailored legal strategy based on aircraft type and jurisdictional factors.
While both fall under aviation law, there are several important distinctions:
- Regulatory Oversight: Commercial airlines are strictly regulated by the FAA and NTSB. Helicopters, especially those used in tourism or private charters, often operate under less stringent oversight, which can complicate safety accountability.
- Flight Risks: Helicopters often operate at low altitudes in congested urban environments (e.g., Manhattan sightseeing routes), making them more vulnerable to weather, mechanical error, and pilot judgment issues.
- Maintenance Records & Pilot Logs: Helicopter maintenance logs and pilot qualifications are often less standardized than in commercial airline operations, requiring deeper scrutiny by aviation experts.
- Jurisdiction: In helicopter crashes, particularly international charters or local sightseeing flights, jurisdictional disputes often arise regarding where the case should be heard. Our firm has succeeded in keeping foreign aviation cases within New York courts.
Liability may fall on one or more of the following parties:
- Aircraft or parts manufacturers (product liability)
- Airline or charter operators
- Maintenance contractors
- Air traffic controllers
- Tour companies or third-party booking agents
- Government agencies in certain airspace management failures
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigates all civil aviation crashes in the U.S. However, the NTSB’s findings are not legally binding in civil litigation. Our attorneys work independently with aviation experts, sometimes challenging NTSB conclusions, especially where corporate interests may influence or limit full accountability.
Yes. If negligence or misconduct contributed to the accident, families may pursue wrongful death claims for:
- Funeral expenses
- Loss of companionship
- Loss of future income and support
- Pain and suffering (in certain jurisdictions)
We also handle international wrongful death claims, assisting foreign nationals and their families in navigating U.S. legal processes.
Damages often include:
- Medical bills and future care
- Lost income or earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Punitive damages (in cases of egregious negligence)
We work with life care planners, forensic economists, and vocational experts to determine the true long-term value of each claim.
Whether you are dealing with a helicopter sightseeing crash over the Hudson or a commercial airline disaster, your case deserves the attention of a law firm with unmatched aviation experience. With more than 100 years of combined expertise and a selective caseload approach, Gair, Gair, Conason, Rubinowitz, Bloom, Hershenhorn, Steigman & Mackauf is prepared to fight for justice.Call (212) 943-1090 or contact us online to discuss your case today.
Disclaimer: Please be advised that the results achieved in any given case depend upon the exact facts and circumstances of that case. Gair, Gair, Conason, Rubinowitz, Bloom, Hershenhorn, Steigman & Mackauf cannot guarantee a specific result in any legal matter. Any testimonial or case result listed on this site is based on an actual legal case and represents the results achieved in that particular case, and does not constitute a guarantee, warranty or prediction of the outcome of any other legal matter.
