Qantas Passengers Launch Lawsuit Over 2008 Air Crash

Strategic Insights -

Passengers on a Qantas plane that nosedived twice on a flight from Singapore to Perth have filed a lawsuit in the US, seeking tens of millions of dollars in compensation for physical and mental injuries. The lawsuit names aircraft maker Airbus and flight-computer companies as defendants, alleging a design defect in the flight data boxes and flight control computers caused the incident. The claims arise from flight QF72 on October 7, 2008, when people were thrown around the cabin and some suffered severe injuries.

Key Takeaways:

  • 76 clients, including 66 Australians, are suing Airbus, Northrop Grumman, Dupont, and Motorola in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois.
  • The clients claim a design defect in the flight data boxes and flight control computers caused the incident on flight QF72.
  • The investigation by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau has focused on the role played by the plane's electronic units.
  • Qantas offered medical costs, counselling services, refunds, and ex gratia payments to passengers, but claimants are seeking further compensation.
  • Claimants had to register before October 6 to meet the US statute of limitations.
  • Previous aviation incidents have led to similar claimants being awarded six-figure sums as a minimum.
  • Qantas has settled some claims and is working with passengers on outstanding claims.
  • The investigation into flight QF72 is ongoing, and Airbus is assisting the Australian Transport Safety Bureau.

Statistics:

  • 76 clients are suing Airbus and flight-computer companies.
  • 66 Australians are among the claimants.
  • 10 people suffered severe injuries to their scalps from hitting the overhead bins.
  • 6 people had broken bones and spinal injuries.
  • Qantas has settled some claims and is working on outstanding claims.
  • October 7, 2008: The date of the incident in flight QF72.

Sources:

  • Mr Wisner quoted in the article
  • Mr Wisner's website: www.qf72.com
  • Australian Transport Safety Bureau investigation
  • Airbus spokesman's statement
  • Qantas spokesman's statement