§ 479 - Liability of owner of aircraft for injuries - Vermont Statutes

§ 479. Liability of owner of aircraft for injuries

The owner of an aircraft which is operated over the lands or waters of this state is liable for injuries to persons or property on the land or water beneath, caused by the ascent, descent or flight of the aircraft, or the dropping or falling of an object from an aircraft, unless the injury is caused in whole or in part by the negligence of the person injured, or of the owner or bailee of the property injured. If the aircraft is leased at the time of the injury to person or property, both owner and lessee shall be liable, and they may be sued jointly, or either or both of them may be sued separately. However, the owner or lessee shall not be responsible when the aircraft causing injury or damage is taken without the knowledge or permission of the owner or lessee. (Added 1985, No. 222 (Adj. Sess.), § 2.)