Best Aviation Lawyers in Nashville

About Aviation Law in Nashville, United States

Nashville is a regional aviation hub with a mix of commercial, business, general aviation, and growing unmanned aircraft system - UAS - activity. Aviation law in the United States is primarily governed by federal law and federal agencies, especially the Federal Aviation Administration - FAA - and the National Transportation Safety Board - NTSB. At the same time, state and local governments and airport authorities play important roles on issues such as land use, noise, local airport operations, leases, and public safety. In Nashville, key local stakeholders include Nashville International Airport (BNA), other area airports such as John C. Tune Airport, the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority, and state aviation offices.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

People and businesses involved in aviation may need a lawyer for many reasons. Legal issues in aviation often involve technical regulatory requirements, high potential damages, and specialized administrative proceedings. Common situations that call for legal help include:

- Accidents and personal-injury claims involving passengers, pedestrians, or occupants of aircraft.

- Aircraft damage and product-liability claims when components or maintenance are alleged to have failed.

- FAA investigations, certificates enforcement actions, or penalties for alleged violations of Federal Aviation Regulations.

- NTSB investigations and representation in safety-sensitive proceedings.

- Drone - UAS - incidents including privacy complaints, unlawful operation, or enforcement actions under federal, state, or local rules.

- Title, registration, lien and financing disputes when buying, selling or leasing aircraft.

- Airport leases, tenant disputes, zoning and land-use conflicts near airports, noise complaints, and easement matters.

- Commercial operations compliance - e.g., Part 135 charter, Part 91 business operations, pilot certification and medical issues.

- Environmental compliance and contamination claims related to fuel spills or airport operations.

Local Laws Overview

Because aviation is federally regulated, many operational and safety rules come from the FAA and the Code of Federal Regulations. However, local and state rules matter too. Key local aspects to consider in Nashville include:

- Airport governance: Nashville International Airport is managed by the local airport authority, which sets tenant leases, operational rules for on-airport businesses, and certain access and security policies. Disputes about leases, concessions, and airport permits are often handled under the airport authority's procedures and local rules.

- Zoning and land use: Metro Nashville government controls zoning, development approvals, and land-use planning around airports. Long-term land-use planning, airport overlay zones, and height restrictions affect property owners and developers near airport approaches.

- Noise and nuisance regulations: Local ordinances and airport policies address aircraft noise abatement and complaint procedures. Those rules can affect flight patterns, hours of operation for certain activities, and community mitigation measures.

- Drone - UAS - policies: UAS operations are primarily regulated by the FAA, but Tennessee and some local governments may have statutes or ordinances addressing privacy, trespass, and law enforcement use. Operators must follow federal UAS rules and be mindful of local restrictions that may apply to takeoff, landing, and privacy.

- Employment and business regulation: Labor, tax, permitting, and health and safety matters for airport employees and contractors follow state and local laws, and businesses operating at airports must comply with airport authority requirements.

- Criminal and safety laws: State criminal laws apply to conduct on or near airports - for example impaired operation or trespass - and can run alongside FAA enforcement actions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after an aircraft accident or incident in Nashville?

First, ensure safety and obtain medical help if needed. Preserve evidence - photographs, witness names and contact information, maintenance records, and any communication logs. Report the accident to authorities as required - emergency services, airport operations, and the FAA or NTSB depending on the severity. Contact an aviation attorney early to help preserve evidence, advise about reporting obligations and communications, and represent you with investigators and insurers.

Who investigates aviation accidents - the FAA or the NTSB?

The NTSB is the federal agency primarily responsible for investigating civil aviation accidents to determine probable cause. The FAA may conduct its own compliance investigation if there are alleged regulatory violations. An attorney can help manage interactions with both agencies to protect legal rights while cooperating with safety investigations.

Can local Nashville rules restrict where I can fly my drone?

Federal UAS rules govern airspace and many operational aspects, but Tennessee and Metro Nashville may have ordinances concerning trespass, privacy, and certain activities. Also, airports and airport authorities set restrictions on operations in and around airport property. Always check FAA airspace rules, local ordinances, and airport-specific policies before flying.

What legal issues come up when buying or selling an aircraft in Nashville?

Common issues include verifying title and registration, discovering liens or encumbrances, ensuring proper escrow and closing procedures, confirming maintenance and logbook compliance, and handling sales tax and use tax considerations. A specialized attorney can perform title searches, draft purchase agreements, and coordinate registrations and lien releases.

Can the FAA take away my pilot certificate or medical certificate?

Yes. The FAA can initiate certificate action for regulatory violations or safety concerns. Medical certificates are subject to revocation or special issuance by the FAA or the medical certifying authority. If the FAA pursues enforcement, an attorney experienced in FAA matters can represent you in administrative proceedings, negotiate settlements, or seek appeals.

How do airport lease disputes in Nashville typically get resolved?

Airport lease disputes may be resolved through negotiation, administrative processes established by the airport authority, mediation, or litigation in state or federal court depending on the lease terms and governing law. Reviewing lease language early and consulting counsel can prevent escalation and preserve remedies.

What should businesses consider when operating charter or air taxi services in the Nashville area?

Businesses must comply with FAA operational and maintenance rules - for example Part 135 where applicable - secure proper certificates and insurance, meet security and TSA requirements for commercial passenger operations, and follow airport authority agreements and local ordinances. Regulatory compliance audits and experienced aviation counsel can help reduce enforcement and liability risk.

Are there state-specific drone laws in Tennessee I should know about?

Tennessee law includes provisions that address privacy, law enforcement use of drones, and some restrictions on use. However, federal aviation law controls airspace and many operational aspects. If you face a local complaint or enforcement action, consult an attorney who understands both federal UAS rules and Tennessee-specific statutes.

How do I handle claims for injuries sustained at an airport or on an aircraft?

Identify responsible parties - the airline, airport, aircraft owner, maintenance provider, or another third party. Preserve evidence, seek medical treatment, and report the incident. Claims often involve federal regulations, ticket-terms or waivers, and state personal-injury law. An attorney with aviation experience can assess liability, interact with insurers, and manage claims or litigation.

How can I find an attorney who handles aviation matters in Nashville?

Look for attorneys or firms with experience in aviation law, FAA and NTSB proceedings, aircraft transactions, or airport matters. Check professional backgrounds, relevant case experience, and client references. Local bar associations, aviation industry organizations, and referrals from aviation professionals are useful sources. Schedule a consultation to discuss your facts and confirm the attorney has applicable experience.

Additional Resources

Federal Aviation Administration - the federal regulator for aviation safety, pilot certification, airspace, and UAS rules.

National Transportation Safety Board - investigates civil aviation accidents and issues safety recommendations.

Transportation Security Administration - manages aviation security requirements for commercial air carriers and airports.

Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority - local airport operator for Nashville International Airport with rules and tenant procedures.

Tennessee Department of Transportation - Aeronautics Division and state aviation resources for statewide airport and airspace issues.

Nashville Bar Association and Tennessee Bar Association - for attorney referrals and local professional resources.

Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association - national organization with regulatory guidance, pilot resources, and legal information.

Experimental Aircraft Association and local pilot clubs - practical flying, maintenance, and community resources.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance in an aviation matter in Nashville, take these steps:

- Preserve documents and evidence now - maintenance logs, contracts, photographs, witness contacts, and medical records.

- Do not provide extensive written statements to insurers, investigators, or other parties without first consulting counsel. Limited cooperation with authorities for safety is appropriate, but get legal advice before making detailed admissions.

- Contact an attorney who specializes in aviation law - ask about their experience with FAA enforcement, NTSB matters, aircraft transactions, or relevant litigation.

- Schedule an initial consultation to discuss facts, urgent deadlines, and the best path forward - whether administrative defense, civil claims, insurance negotiations, or transactional assistance.

- Act promptly to meet reporting requirements and preserve legal rights. Aviation matters can involve tight timelines and technical procedures that benefit from early legal involvement.

If you are unsure where to start, contact your local bar association for a referral to a lawyer experienced in aviation law, and prepare a concise summary of the incident or issue and any documents you have for that initial meeting.