How do I get a copy of a private plane’s “black box” tape? Our private jet had a runway skid and we want to hear the tape.

Unfortunately, small private plane accident litigation is more complex in large part because general aviation aircraft with 10 or less seats are not required to carry the “black box(es)” – i.e., cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder – found on commercial flights.   However, an experienced aviation attorney may be able to gather other evidence that indicates that the runway skid was caused by flight crew negligence.  Unlike commercial air carriers, private or general aviators are not required by federal law to maintain a heightened standard of care toward passengers.  The law treats a general aviation pilot much like the operator of a motor vehicle, requiring that the pilot use reasonable care to prevent accident or injury. To hold your employer responsible for the skid, your attorney will need to prove it failed to use reasonable care in operating or maintaining the aircraft.