Interactive Aviation Map: Latin America
Welcome to the Interactive Aviation Map: Latin America. Please click on each jurisdiction to access details of key aviation law.
- Warsaw Convention / Hague Protocol states
- Non-convention states
- Montreal Convention 1999 states
CAR contacts
THANK YOU TO
- Argentina Marval O’Farrell Mairal
- The Bahamas Higgs & Johnson
- Bolivia Estudio de Abogados Lopez del Solar
- Brazil CAR – in cooperation with HFW
- Chile Estudio Carvallo
- Colombia Garciarboleda Abogados
- Costa Rica BLP
- Dominican Republic Mesa Abogados
- Ecuador Santacruz & Donoso
- El Salvador BLP
- Guatemala Nassar Abogados
- Guyana Hughes, Fields & Stoby
- Honduras BLP
- Jamaica Myers, Fletcher & Gordon
- Mexico Colin Vega Fletes Abogados
- Nicaragua BLP
- Panama Pardini & Asociados
- Paraguay GHP Abogados
- Peru Estudio Rodríguez Larraín
- Puerto Rico Marini Pietrantoni Muñiz (MPM)
- Venezuela Torres Plaz & Araujo
BRAZIL
CIVIL CODE (TORT-BASED CLAIMS/EXTRACONTRACTUAL LIABILITY)
3 YEARS
CIVIL CODE (CONTRACTUAL LIABILITY, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE RECENT UNDERSTANDING OF THE SUPERIOR COURT OF JUSTICE)
10 YEARS
AERONAUTICAL CODE
2 YEARS
CONSUMER CODE
5 YEARS
WARSAW SYSTEM
2 YEARS
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
2 YEARS
WARSAW SYSTEM*
In accordance with the decision rendered by the Supreme Federal Court (STF) in the cases involving Air Canada and Air France (May 2017), the Montreal Convention shall be applied to matters involving time bar interruption and cargo damage occurred during international carriage.
*N.B.: Brazil has ratified the following instruments which are part of the Warsaw System:
- Convention for the Unification of Certain Rules relating to International Carriage by Air (Warsaw, 12/10/29)
- Protocol to Amend the Warsaw Convention of 1929 (The Hague, 28/9/55)
- Convention, Supplementary to the Warsaw Convention, for the Unification of Certain Rules relating to International Carriage by air Performed by a Person Other than the Contracting Carrier (Guadalajara, 18/09/61)
- Additional Protocol No. 1 (Montreal, 25/9/75)
- Additional Protocol No. 2 (Montreal, 25/9/75)
- Additional Protocol No. 4 (Montreal, 25/9/75)
MC1999
In accordance with the decision rendered by the Supreme Federal Court (STF) in the cases involving Air Canada and Air France (May 2017), the Montreal Convention shall be applied to matters involving time bar interruption and cargo damage occurred during international carriage.
WE USE AS A BENCHMARK FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES THE DAMAGES LIKELY TO BE RECOVERABLE IN THE FOLLOWING SCENARIO:
DEATH OF A 33 YEAR-OLD MALE, MARRIED, WITH 2 MINOR CHILDREN, EARNING USD 4,000 A MONTH/USD 48,000 PER ANNUM.
Average earnings in this jurisdiction would be considerably lower.
AVIATION
Total: c. USD 648,000 (BR3,416,949) at current rates
Comprising:
Material damages: c. USD 418,000 (BRL2,204,949).
In general terms, material damages are calculated considering the average earnings of the victim, her/his life expectancy and the financial reliance of his/her beneficiaries. For a lump sum payment, usually some discount is utilised.
Moral damages: c. USD 115,000 (BRL 606,000) up to USD 230,000 (BRL 1,212,000). Usually awarded in Federal minimum wages (currently equivalent to BRL 1,212 – approx. USD 230 – since January 2022). The moral damages depend on the how closely related the victim and the claimant were to each other. In 2017, the STF (Supreme Federal Court) indicated that it would not apply the international convention limits to moral damages claims.
NON-AVIATION
Total c. USD 533,000 (BRL2,810,948) at current rates.
Comprising:
Material damages: c. USD 418,000 (BRL2,204,948). In general terms, the material damages are calculated considering the average earnings of the victim, her/his life expectancy and the financial reliance of his/her beneficiaries. For a lump sum payment, usually some discount is utilised.
Moral damages: c. USD 115,000 (BRL 606,000). Usually awarded in Federal minimum wages (currently equivalent to BRL 1,212 – approx. USD 230 – since January 2022). The moral damages depend on the damage caused to the honour and dignity of the victim and also how closely related the victim and the claimant were to each other.
PUNITIVE DAMAGES
Not awarded. Culpability is taken into account when moral damages are awarded. Moral damages are generally in the region of 500 minimum wages per victim (approx. BRL 606,000 – c. USD 115,000).
LITIGATION COSTS
Losing party potentially has to pay 10-20% of the award to the opposing counsel plus court fees.
LEGAL INTEREST RATES
12% per annum, applicable from date of service of the proceedings in case of contractual liability. The Court can also establish the legal interest rates applicable from the date of the loss in tort / extra-contractual liability claims.
MONETARY CORRECTION
This is the periodical adjustment of the currency value based on the value of inflation during a certain period, with the objective of compensating the currency’s value loss, and also has a significant impact on claim values and is applied as follows:
a) Moral damages: generally, from the date of the loss (for tort-based claims) and from the date of the filing of the proceeding (for contractual claims); and,
b) Material damages: generally, from the date of event (accident)
FIRST INSTANCE JUDGMENT
1 — 3 YEARS
FINAL APPELLATE LEVEL
1 YEAR — 6 YEARS
depending on which State (in addition to above)
Does Brazil have a law or regulation which gives passengers the right to claim fixed compensation for:
- Delay
- Cancellation
- Denied boarding?
IF YES, WHEN DID IT COME INTO FORCE?
In theory, the Brazilian Aeronautical Code establishes limits for the liability of air carriers. However, more recent laws, such as the Consumers Defence Code (1990) and the Civil Code (2002), are commonly applied as a way of circumventing the low limits established by the aeronautical legislation.
In 2016, the Brazilian aviation authority (ANAC) implemented Regulation No. 400 which deals with compensation and immediate assistance to passengers in the event of denied boarding, delay / cancellation of flights and baggage damage/loss.
It is worth noting, however, that making a claim under Regulation No, 400 does not prevent passengers from going on to sue the airline in court for further proven damages.
BOLIVIA
CIVIL CODE
Property rights:
5 YEARS
CIVIL CODE
For damage caused by a wrongful act or generated from extracontractual liability:
3 YEARS
AERONAUTICAL CODE
Damage caused to passengers, baggage, merchandise, and third parties on the surface:
1 YEAR
AERONAUTICAL CODE
Damages caused to crew members:
2 YEARS
WARSAW SYSTEM
2 YEARS
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
2 YEARS
WARSAW SYSTEM
In force. Bolivia ratified the 1929 Warsaw Convention only and is not a party to any other Warsaw instruments.
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
In force.
WE USE AS A BENCHMARK FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES THE DAMAGES LIKELY TO BE RECOVERABLE IN THE FOLLOWING SCENARIO:
DEATH OF A 33 YEAR-OLD MALE, MARRIED, WITH 2 MINOR CHILDREN, EARNING USD 4,000 A MONTH/USD 48,000 PER ANNUM.
Average earnings in this jurisdiction would be considerably lower.
AVIATION
According to the Bolivian Civil Aeronautics Law, in passenger transportation, the carrier’s liability in relation to each passenger is limited to 32,500 Special Drawing Rights (SDRs), which are quoted daily by the Central Bank of Bolivia (at current rate approx. USD 46,000). However, the carrier shall not be entitled to rely on this limit of liability, when the damage is caused by its wilful misconduct or by the wilful misconduct of any of the persons under its dependence, in the exercise of his functions, in which case it is up to the discretion of the judges to award such damages. However, since the MC1999 has been ratified by Bolivia, the judges may consider up to 100,000 SDRs for liability purposes.
NON-AVIATION
It is not possible to estimate the recoverable damages as these are entirely at the discretion of the court, depending on the particular circumstances of each case.
PUNITIVE DAMAGES
Not applicable.
LITIGATION COSTS
Generally, the losing party pays for court costs and legal fees.
LEGAL INTEREST RATE
6% per annum interest legal rate
FIRST INSTANCE JUDGMENT
It is not possible to estimate this accurately, since it depends on each particular case. However, the parties should anticipate several years.
FINAL APPELLATE LEVEL
Several years.
On September 09, 2009, the then president of Bolivia approved by Supreme Decree No. 0285, the Regulation for the Protection of Users’ Rights in Air and Airport Services, concerning, among others facilities to be provided to passengers by airlines due to denied boarding (overbooking), cancellation of flights and delays in flights. They provide as follows:
- Delay:
In cases of delays attributable to the carrier, at the initiation of the flight (from deplaning) and therefore the scheduled flight time is not met, the carrier will compensate the passenger observing the following criteria:
1. When the delay is more than two (2) hours and less than four (4) hours, the passenger shall be provided with refreshments and, at his/her request, a telephone communication or by the most expeditious means available to the place of destination, or to the place of origin, in case of connections, which shall not exceed three (3) minutes.
2. When the delay is more than four (4) hours and less than six (6) hours, in addition to the above, the passenger shall be provided with food (breakfast, lunch or meal, depending on the time).
3. When the delay exceeds six (6) hours, in addition to the above, the carrier shall compensate the passenger with a minimum amount equivalent to twenty-five percent (25%) of the value of the ticket on the unfulfilled route, payable in money or any other form accepted by the passenger. Additionally, when this delay exceeds 22:00 hours (local time), the airline must provide the passenger with lodging (if he/she is not at home) and transfer expenses (or immediate reimbursement if he/she is not at his/her usual place of residence), unless the passenger voluntarily accepts to extend the wait when it is foreseeable that the flight will take place within a reasonable period of time.
- Cancellation:
In the cases in which the carrier decides to cancel the flight, having the passenger confirmed reservation, without having been reimbursed the amount of the ticket in the proportional part of the trip not made or its totality if the flight no longer has reason to exist, nor a substitute flight for the same day had been obtained, the expenses of food, lodging in which it is necessary to stay overnight and transfer airport – hotel – airport will be covered. In addition, if a delay occurs prior to the cancellation of the flight, the user shall receive the compensation provided for delays above, as applicable.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, the passenger may agree with the carrier, where appropriate, on a return flight to the first point of departure, as soon as possible, or onward transportation to the final destination under comparable conditions of carriage as soon as possible, or at a later date at the passenger’s convenience.
- Denied boarding?
If, after the passenger has confirmed reservation and has presented himself/herself at the airport in due time, boarding is denied due to overbooking, the carrier shall, as a first step, request voluntary passengers to surrender their reservations in exchange for certain benefits, under the conditions agreed upon by the voluntary passenger and the operating carrier, which may be as follows:
(a) Services, telephone communication, meals, transportation, airport and lodging taxes until the next flight and other expenses directly related to your trip, which may be all or part of them as required.
b) Endorsement or transfer to another carrier.
c) A compensation equivalent to twenty-five percent (25%) of the value of the unfulfilled trip, payable in cash or in any other form accepted by the passenger, which may be tickets, bonuses or mileage recognition, for any service offered on the carrier’s routes.
In the event that the number of volunteers is not sufficient for the remaining passengers with reservations to board the flight, the air carrier shall immediately compensate and assist them providing the passengers with a space on the next available flight to his/her final destination, on the same date and on the same route. In case no flight is available, the carrier shall make the necessary arrangements, at its own expense, for the boarding of the passenger with another carrier as soon as possible.
In addition to the above, the carrier shall compensate the passenger with a minimum sum equivalent to twenty-five percent (25%) of the value of the ticket on the unfulfilled route, payable in cash or any other accepted form.
IF YES, WHEN DID IT COME INTO FORCE?
- Civil Aviation Law: 10 May 2000
- Regulation of the Civil Aeronautics Law: 22 December 2001
- The Montreal Convention: 18 May 1999
- Decision 619: 15 July 2005
MEXICO
AERONAUTICAL CODE
Personal injuries:
1 YEAR
WARSAW SYSTEM
Liability actions (including personal injuries):
2 YEARS
MONTREAL CONVENTION
1999Liability actions (including personal injuries):
2 YEARS
WARSAW SYSTEM
May 15th, 1933.
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
November 4th, 2003.
WE USE AS A BENCHMARK FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES THE DAMAGES LIKELY TO BE RECOVERABLE IN THE FOLLOWING SCENARIO:
DEATH OF A 33 YEAR-OLD MALE, MARRIED, WITH 2 MINOR CHILDREN, EARNING USD 4,000 A MONTH/USD 48,000 PER ANNUM.
Average earnings in this jurisdiction would be considerably lower.
AVIATION
Material compensation: MXP $2,721,293.40 (c. USD 132,500).
The Federal Aviation Law establishes a fixed compensation amount for death cases.
Moral compensation: left to the courts’ discretion, depending on the circumstances of the case.
NON-AVIATION
Material compensation: MXP $907,097.80 (c. USD 44,000.00).
Moral compensation: left to the courts’ discretion, depending on the circumstances of the case.
PUNITIVE DAMAGES
Left to the courts’ discretion, depending on the circumstances of the case. However, they are considered an element of moral damages, based on precedents.
LITIGATION COSTS
10%-12% if the case value is up to MXP $268,860.00 (c. USD 13,500.00);
8%-10% if the case value exceeds such threshold, yet below MXP $537,720.00 (c. USD 27,000.00);
6%-8% if the case exceeds such threshold.
LEGAL INTEREST RATE
9%.
FIRST INSTANCE JUDGMENT
1 — 1.5 YEARS
FINAL APPELLATE LEVEL
6 MONTHS plus a final 6 months’ constitutional action.
Does your country have a law or regulation which gives passengers the right to claim fixed compensation for:
- Delay
- Cancellation
- Denied boarding
IF YES, WHEN DID IT COME INTO FORCE?
June 27th, 2017 (except for denied boarding which was set forth since the Civil Aviation Act was issued on 13th May, 1995).
ONE-HOUR DELAY
Future flight discounts to the same destination and/or food and beverages.
TWO-HOURS’ DELAY
Future flight discounts (of at least 7.5% of the ticket price) to the same destination and/or food and beverages.
FOUR-HOURS’ DELAY AND CANCELLATIONS
Telephone and internet services, and at passengers’ choice:
a) Full or leg ticket refund and indemnification of at least 25% of the price.
b) Next flight ticket, food and beverages according to waiting time, accommodation and required commutes;
c) Ticket substitution for the same destination for future date and indemnification of at least 25% of the price.
BOARDING DENIAL (ONLY DUE TO OVERBOOKING)
At passengers’ choice:
a) Full or leg ticket refund and indemnification of at least 25% of the price;
b) Next flight ticket, telephone service, food and beverages according to waiting time, accommodation and required commutes;
c) Ticket substitution for the same destination for future date and indemnification of at least 25% of the price.
When volunteering, passengers may agree to any kind of benefits with the airline, which in no case shall be less than the ones listed above.
GUATEMALA
TORTIOUS CLAIMS
1 YEAR (from the time of the damage)
CONTRACTUAL CLAIMS
2 YEARS (from the time of the damage/negative of coverage or payment)
AERONAUTICAL CODE
No time limit established. Reference is made to other regulations.
CONSUMER LEGISLATION
3 YEARS (from the date the offense was committed. This only applies to offenses prescribed under the Consumer and User Protection Law.)
WARSAW SYSTEM
2 YEARS
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
2 YEARS
WARSAW SYSTEM*
In force and generally applied by courts
*N.B.: Guatemala has ratified the following instruments which are part of the Warsaw System:
- Convention for the Unification of Certain Rules relating to International Carriage by Air (Warsaw, 12/10/29)
- Protocol to Amend the Warsaw Convention of 1929 (The Hague, 28/9/55)
- Convention, Supplementary to the Warsaw Convention, for the Unification of Certain Rules relating to International Carriage by air Performed by a Person Other than the Contracting Carrier (Guadalajara, 18/09/61)
- Additional Protocol No. 1 (Montreal, 25/9/75)
- Additional Protocol No. 2 (Montreal, 25/9/75)
- Additional Protocol No. 4 (Montreal, 25/9/75)
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
In force and generally applied by the courts.
WE USE AS A BENCHMARK FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES THE DAMAGES LIKELY TO BE RECOVERABLE IN THE FOLLOWING SCENARIO:
DEATH OF A 33 YEAR-OLD MALE, MARRIED, WITH 2 MINOR CHILDREN, EARNING USD 4,000 A MONTH/USD 48,000 PER ANNUM.
Average earnings in this jurisdiction would be considerably lower.
AVIATION
Material compensation: MXP $2,721,293.40 (c. USD 132,500).
The Federal Aviation Law establishes a fixed compensation amount for death cases.
Moral compensation: left to the courts’ discretion, depending on the circumstances of the case.
NON-AVIATION
Material compensation: MXP $907,097.80 (c. USD 44,000.00).
Moral compensation: left to the courts’ discretion, depending on the circumstances of the case.
PUNITIVE DAMAGES
Left to the courts’ discretion, depending on the circumstances of the case. However, they are considered an element of moral damages, based on precedents.
LITIGATION COSTS
10%-12% if the case value is up to MXP $268,860.00 (c. USD 13,500.00);
8%-10% if the case value exceeds such threshold, yet below MXP $537,720.00 (c. USD 27,000.00);
6%-8% if the case exceeds such threshold.
LEGAL INTEREST RATE
9%.
FIRST INSTANCE JUDGMENT
C.5 YEARS
FINAL APPELLATE LEVEL
C.3 YEARS (in addition to above)
Does Guatemala have a law or regulation which gives passengers the right to claim fixed compensation for:
- Delay
- Cancellation
- Denied boarding?
IF YES, WHEN DID IT COME INTO FORCE?
There is no specific law or regulation related to the right to claim fixed compensation for the above mentioned situations. However, these kinds of claims can be based on the Consumer and User Protection Law, Decree 006-2003. Damages and losses can also be claimed through a Civil Court with the relevant support.
EL SALVADOR
CIVIL CODE
20 YEARS
AERONAUTICAL CODE
2 YEARS
WARSAW SYSTEM
2 YEARS
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
2 YEARS
WARSAW SYSTEM*
In force and generally applied by courts.
*N.B.: El Salvador has ratified the following instruments which are part of the Warsaw System:
Convention for the Unification of Certain Rules relating to International Carriage by Air (Warsaw, 12/10/29)
Protocol to Amend the Warsaw Convention of 1929 (The Hague, 28/9/55)
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
In force and generally applied by the courts.
Convention for the Unification of Certain Rules for International Carriage by Air ( currently in force since 06/01/2008)
WE USE AS A BENCHMARK FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES THE DAMAGES LIKELY TO BE RECOVERABLE IN THE FOLLOWING SCENARIO:
DEATH OF A 33 YEAR-OLD MALE, MARRIED, WITH 2 MINOR CHILDREN, EARNING USD 4,000 A MONTH/USD 48,000 PER ANNUM.
Average earnings in this jurisdiction would be considerably lower.
AVIATION
Material damages: calculated at judge’s discretion.
Moral damages: calculated at judge’s discretion.
NON-AVIATION
Depends on the particular circumstances of each case (namely the evidence and the circumstances of the case and the victim)
PUNITIVE DAMAGES
Not applicable.
LITIGATION COSTS
May vary. Normally, each party bears its own costs, however, in civil proceedings the judge may rule in favour of the winning party awarding litigations costs as part of damages.
LEGAL INTEREST RATE
Civil Law: 6% Commercial Law: 12% and starts to accrue from the date of loss.
FIRST INSTANCE JUDGMENT
C.5 YEARS
FINAL APPELLATE LEVEL
C.3 YEARS (in addition to above)
Does your country have a law or regulation which gives passengers the right to claim fixed compensation for:
- Delay
- Cancellation
- Denied boarding?
IF YES, WHEN DID IT COME INTO FORCE?
Yes, but not at a fixed fee. The Consumer’s Protection Law, which entered into force in October 2005, states that if goods and services were not given as agreed upon, consumers have the right to claim compensation. Regarding delay, cancelation or denied boarding, this law applies and passengers should have the right to claim compensation. However, compensation will vary depending on the situation.
HONDURAS
CIVIL CODE
10 YEARS
AERONAUTICAL CODE
2 YEARS
WARSAW SYSTEM
2 YEARS
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
2 YEARS
WARSAW SYSTEM
In force since September 25th, 1994, and generally applied by the courts.
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
In force since January 24th, 2016, and generally applied by the courts.
WE USE AS A BENCHMARK FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES THE DAMAGES LIKELY TO BE RECOVERABLE IN THE FOLLOWING SCENARIO:
DEATH OF A 33 YEAR-OLD MALE, MARRIED, WITH 2 MINOR CHILDREN, EARNING USD 4,000 A MONTH/USD 48,000 PER ANNUM.
Average earnings in this jurisdiction would be considerably lower.
AVIATION
Material damages: USD 25,200 at current rates. (18,000 SDRs).
Moral damages: calculated at judge’s discretion
NON-AVIATION
Depends on the particular circumstances of each case (namely the evidence and the circumstances of the case and the victim)
PUNITIVE DAMAGES
Not applicable.
LITIGATION COSTS
The winning party has the right to request the Court, that the loser party reimburses the expenses and procedural costs.
LEGAL INTEREST RATE
Civil Law: 6% Commercial Law: 7% and starts to accrue from the date of loss.
FIRST INSTANCE JUDGMENT
6 MONTHS — 2 YEARS
FINAL APPELLATE LEVEL
1 — 3 YEARS
Does your country have a law or regulation which gives passengers the right to claim fixed compensation for:
- Delay
- Cancellation
- Denied boarding?
No, although the Honduran laws regulate the rights that passengers have to file compensation claims for those matters. Claims falling under laws like the Civil Aeronautics Law do not limit the amount of compensation a passenger can claim.
JAMAICA
TORTIOUS CLAIMS
3 — 6 YEARS
CONTRACTUAL CLAIMS
6 YEARS
CONSUMER LEGISLATION
6 YEARS
WARSAW SYSTEM
2 YEARS
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
2 YEARS
WARSAW SYSTEM
In force and generally applied by courts.
Jamaica has ratified the following instruments which are part of the Warsaw System:
- Convention, Supplementary to the Warsaw Convention, for the Unification of Certain Rules relating to International Carriage by air Performed by a Person Other than the Contracting Carrier (Guadalajara, 18/09/61)
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
In force and generally applied by the courts.
WE USE AS A BENCHMARK FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES THE DAMAGES LIKELY TO BE RECOVERABLE IN THE FOLLOWING SCENARIO:
DEATH OF A 33 YEAR-OLD MALE, MARRIED, WITH 2 MINOR CHILDREN, EARNING USD 4,000 A MONTH/USD 48,000 PER ANNUM.
Average earnings in this jurisdiction would be considerably lower.
AVIATION
c.USD 160,000 to USD 256,000 (c.JA$25M-40M)
NON-AVIATION
As for aviation
PUNITIVE DAMAGES
Exemplary damages may be awarded by the court depending on the circumstances of the case.
LITIGATION COSTS
The general principle is that “costs follow the cause”, i.e. the losing party has to pay the costs of the successful party. In some circumstances, each party has to bear their own costs or there may be an apportionment of costs.
LEGAL INTEREST RATE
of 6% (local currency) and 3% (foreign currency) from the date of judgment until payment. Save agreement to the contrary, the respective rates are also used to calculate interest from the date of the breach to the date of judgment.
In relation to personal injury matters, interest on special damages is payable from the date of the injury while interest on general damages is payable from the date of service of the Claim Form.
1 — 2 years in Resident Magistrate Court (claims up to c.USD 6,700 at current rates – JA$1,000,000)2.5 — 3.5 years in Supreme Court (unlimited jurisdiction)
3 — 4 years – Court of Appeal (in addition to above)4 — 5 years – Privy Council (in addition to above)
Does your country have a law or regulation which gives passengers the right to claim fixed compensation for:
- Delay – no
- Cancellation – no
- Denied boarding? – no
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
AERONAUTICAL CODE
Not applicable.
WARSAW SYSTEM
Not applicable.
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
2 YEARS
WARSAW SYSTEM
Not applicable
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
In force and generally applied.
WE USE AS A BENCHMARK FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES THE DAMAGES LIKELY TO BE RECOVERABLE IN THE FOLLOWING SCENARIO:
DEATH OF A 33 YEAR-OLD MALE, MARRIED, WITH 2 MINOR CHILDREN, EARNING USD 4,000 A MONTH/USD 48,000 PER ANNUM.
Average earnings in this jurisdiction would be considerably lower.
AVIATION
USD 100,000
NON-AVIATION
USD 52,000
PUNITIVE DAMAGES
Not applicable
LITIGATION COSTS
USD 1,500
The losing party must pay the expenses of litigation, but not the legal fee.
LEGAL INTEREST RATE
12% annually.
8 MONTHS
3 YEARS
Does your country have a law or regulation which gives passengers the right to claim fixed compensation for:
- Delay
- Cancellation
- Denied boarding?
NO.
PUERTO RICO
CIVIL CODE
1 YEAR (1802 Civil Code of Puerto Rico)
AERONAUTICAL CODE
N/A
WARSAW SYSTEM
2 years limitation period. (Article 29(1))
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
2 years limitation period. (Article 35)
WARSAW SYSTEM
In force and generally applied by the courts.
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
In force (since November 4, 2003) and generally applied by the courts.
WE USE AS A BENCHMARK FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES THE DAMAGES LIKELY TO BE RECOVERABLE IN THE FOLLOWING SCENARIO:
DEATH OF A 33 YEAR-OLD MALE, MARRIED, WITH 2 MINOR CHILDREN, EARNING USD 4,000 A MONTH/USD 48,000 PER ANNUM.
Average earnings in this jurisdiction would be considerably lower.
AVIATION
Total: USD 510,000
Comprising:
Material damages: USD 222,000
Moral damages: USD 288,000
NON-AVIATION
Total: USD 510,000
Comprising:
Material damages: USD 222,000
Moral damages: USD 288,000
PUNITIVE DAMAGES
Not applicable.
LITIGATION COSTS
Cost usually awarded to the prevailing party. Attorneys’ fees awarded with a finding of frivolity or vexatious multiplication of proceedings.
LEGAL INTEREST RATE
0.50% as to public obligations and 4.25% as to private obligations applicable from the date of judgment until payment.
The Office of Commissioner of Financial Institutions of Puerto Rico periodically changes the legal interest rate.
3 — 4 YEARS
1 — 2 YEARS
NICARAGUA
CIVIL CODE
10 YEARS
AERONAUTICAL CODE
1 YEAR death or injury
2 YEARS all other complaints
WARSAW SYSTEM
N/A
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
2 Years
WARSAW SYSTEM
Not ratified.
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
Ratified on 5 November 2022
WE USE AS A BENCHMARK FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES THE DAMAGES LIKELY TO BE RECOVERABLE IN THE FOLLOWING SCENARIO:
DEATH OF A 33 YEAR-OLD MALE, MARRIED, WITH 2 MINOR CHILDREN, EARNING USD 4,000 A MONTH/USD 48,000 PER ANNUM.
Average earnings in this jurisdiction would be considerably lower.
AVIATION
Material damages: 100,000 Special Drawing Rights (XDR).
Amount established by the Civil Aviation Act – can be exceeded by mutual agreement.
Moral damages: calculated at judge’s discretion
NON-AVIATION
Depends on the particular circumstances of each case (namely the evidence and the circumstances of the case and the victim)
PUNITIVE DAMAGES
Not applicable.
LITIGATION COSTS
Losing party generally pays for the legal fees and court costs
LEGAL INTEREST RATE
varies constantly and starts to accrue from the date of the accident.
MONETARY CORRECTION
is applicable (on a retroactive basis at the time of the award) if expressly requested by the claimant
3 — 5 YEARS
FINAL APPELLATE LEVEL
5 YEARS (in addition to above)
Does your country have a law or regulation which gives passengers the right to claim fixed compensation for:
- Delay
- Cancellation
- Denied boarding?
IF YES, WHEN DID IT COME INTO FORCE?
It came into force in 2006, since the Civil Aviation Act was enacted.
COSTA RICA
CIVIL CODE
10 YEARS
AERONAUTICAL CODE
2 YEARS
CONSUMER CODE
2 MONTHS
WARSAW SYSTEM
2 YEARS
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
2 YEARS
WARSAW SYSTEM
In force and generally applied by courts
Costa Rica has ratified the following instruments, which are part of the Warsaw System:
Convention for the Unification of Certain Rules relating to International Carriage by Air (Warsaw, 12/10/29)
Protocol to Amend the Warsaw Convention of 1929 (The Hague, 28/9/55)
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
In force and generally applied by courts
WE USE AS A BENCHMARK FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES THE DAMAGES LIKELY TO BE RECOVERABLE IN THE FOLLOWING SCENARIO:
DEATH OF A 33 YEAR-OLD MALE, MARRIED, WITH 2 MINOR CHILDREN, EARNING USD 4,000 A MONTH/USD 48,000 PER ANNUM.
Average earnings in this jurisdiction would be considerably lower.
AVIATION
Material damages: c. USD 128,000 (c. 81,600,000 Colones at current rates).
The amount established by the Civil Aviation Act can be exceeded. Material damages are generally limited to reimbursements of medical expenses and loss of income.
Moral damages are calculated at judge’s discretion.
Non-material damages are subjective. The largest award made was in the low six figures and involved a particularly unpleasant set of facts. This suggests a generally conservative approach, but it is not precedent and a judge can diverge.
NON-AVIATION
Depends on the particular circumstances of each case (namely the evidence and the circumstances of the case and the victim).
PUNITIVE DAMAGES
Not applicable
LITIGATION COSTS
Losing party generally pays for the legal fees and court costs.
LEGAL INTEREST RATE
Varies constantly, with accrual starting from the date of loss.
MONETARY CORRECTION
Is applicable (on a retroactive basis at the time of the award) if expressly requested by the claimant.
FIRST INSTANCE JUDGMENT
3 — 4 YEARS
FINAL APPELLATE LEVEL
2.5 YEARS in adition to above
Does your country have a law or regulation which gives passengers the right to claim fixed compensation for:
- Delay
- Cancellation
- Denied boarding?
IF YES, WHEN DID IT COME INTO FORCE?
There is no specific regulation addressing this. Nevertheless, these points could be viewed as a breach of duties under the Consumer Protection Act (1995), with penalties ranging from USD 500.00 to USD 20,000.00. Also, if there is no reason for denying boarding, this could be viewed as consumer discrimination.
PANAMA
AERONAUTICAL CODE
2 YEARS from the date incident occurs. Art 170 of Law 21 of 2003
WARSAW SYSTEM
Applicable for international transportation
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
Applicable for international transportation
WARSAW SYSTEM
Recognised by the Republic of Panama
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
Recognised by the Republic of Panama
WE USE AS A BENCHMARK FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES THE DAMAGES LIKELY TO BE RECOVERABLE IN THE FOLLOWING SCENARIO:
DEATH OF A 33 YEAR-OLD MALE, MARRIED, WITH 2 MINOR CHILDREN, EARNING USD 4,000 A MONTH/USD 48,000 PER ANNUM.
Average earnings in this jurisdiction would be considerably lower.
AVIATION
Limit of liability is $25,000 – Art 157, Law 21 of 2003
No limit of liability applies for negligence or fault of carrier and employees – Art 158, Law 21 of 2003
NON-AVIATION
Most unlimited liability aviation claims support their material and moral damages under Art 1466A. The jurisprudence has recognized calculations where it takes as reference the retirement age, 62 years. A possible claim for the example given would be near USD 1.5 Million for material damages . Moral damages require to be demonstrated by claimant, as they are defined as traumatic or psychological related damages, and for the surviving family it could be calculated at USD 300.000
PUNITIVE DAMAGES
In Panama, they arise out of criminal actions and the affected parties will in those cases claim damages based on Articles 1644 and 1645, as Per disposition of the Panama Penal Code. Claim amounts for material damages may be similar to the previous example, but moral damages will increase.
LITIGATION COSTS
USD 225,000 , includes appeal stages
LEGAL INTEREST RATE
10% as per Commercial Code , Art 123
FIRST INSTANCE JUDGMENT
2 — 3 YEARS
FINAL APPELLATE LEVEL
2 — 3 YEARS for appeal at Superior Courts / appeals at Supreme Court
Does your country have a law or regulation which gives passengers the right to claim fixed compensation for: Does not exist but passengers may seek remedy via Panama consumers protection law.
- Delay
- Cancellation
- Denied boarding?
IF YES, WHEN DID IT COME INTO FORCE?
COLOMBIA
AERONAUTICAL CODE
Commercial Code:
2 YEARS for contractual claims
AERONAUTICAL CODE
Civil Code:
10 YEARS for extracontractual claims
WARSAW SYSTEM
2 YEARS for all claims
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
2 YEARS for all claims
WARSAW SYSTEM
Traditionally, Colombian courts have applied the Warsaw System. Please note that Colombia is a party to the 1929 Warsaw Convention, the 1955 The Hague Protocol, the 1961 Guadalajara Convention, and the Montreal Protocols No. 1, 2, 3 and 4.
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
Colombian courts do apply MC99 and, this includes consumer courts. MC99 is in force in Colombia since November 4th, 2003.
WE USE AS A BENCHMARK FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES THE DAMAGES LIKELY TO BE RECOVERABLE IN THE FOLLOWING SCENARIO:
DEATH OF A 33 YEAR-OLD MALE, MARRIED, WITH 2 MINOR CHILDREN, EARNING USD 4,000 A MONTH/USD 48,000 PER ANNUM.
Average earnings in this jurisdiction would be considerably lower.
AVIATION
USD 450,000
NON-AVIATION
USD 450,000
Colombia uses a specific formula for the calculation of material damages. For moral damages, the figures are based on the parameters for compensation established by Colombian High Courts. None of these are binding but are widely used by judges and practitioners, and it is difficult to find claims departing from these formulas/parameters.
PUNITIVE DAMAGES
No
LITIGATION COSTS
Typically, between 3 to 7.5% of the claimed amount of legal fees under a fully adverse judgment scenario. Actual and proven out-of-pocket expenses paid by the other party may also be recovered.
LEGAL INTEREST RATE
6% per annum. Commercial and moratory interest shall not exceed 1.5 times the current banking interest rate as certified by the Financial Superintendence (20% per annum, in average)
FIRST INSTANCE JUDGMENT
3 — 5 YEARS
FINAL APPELLATE LEVEL
1 — 5 YEARS
Does your country have a law or regulation which gives passengers the right to claim fixed compensation for:
- Delay
- Cancellation
- Denied boarding?
IF YES, WHEN DID IT COME INTO FORCE?
Yes. Decision 619 of 2005 of the Andean Community in force as of July 2005 (supranational) and/or Colombian Aviation Rules in force as of 2004. Internal debate still exists in regards to the applicability of either regime (supranational v. domestic).
VENEZUELA
CONTRACTUAL CLAIMS
10 YEARS
INSURANCE CONTRACTS
3 YEARS from date of loss.
Court proceedings must be commenced within 1 year after the Insurer denies the claim.
AERONAUTICAL CODE
Damages to passengers, baggage or cargo:
3 YEARS After an initial period comprising of 30 working days to file a claim against the airline and 60 working days for the airline to respond (reckoned from the date of the [scheduled] arrival at the destination or date of delay/cancellation) .
AERONAUTICAL CODE
the Damages to third parties on surface:
3 YEARS from the date of the occurrence
AERONAUTICAL CODE
Collision:
3 YEARS from the date of the occurrence
WARSAW SYSTEM
2 YEARS
WARSAW SYSTEM
In force
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
Not in force
WE USE AS A BENCHMARK FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES THE DAMAGES LIKELY TO BE RECOVERABLE IN THE FOLLOWING SCENARIO:
DEATH OF A 33 YEAR-OLD MALE, MARRIED, WITH 2 MINOR CHILDREN, EARNING USD 4,000 A MONTH/USD 48,000 PER ANNUM.
Average earnings in this jurisdiction would be considerably lower.
AVIATION
If the death is not caused by misconduct or negligence, a Judge will likely grant an award of SDR 100,000 in this case (USD 140,000 = c.VES 31,500 at the current official exchange rate). (Article 100 of the Civil Aeronautical Law)
If the death is caused by misconduct or negligence, a Judge will likely grant an award of USD 500,000 for material damages and an award of USD 100,000 for moral damages = USD 600,000 (VES 135,000 at the current official exchange rate).
NON-AVIATION
Actual damages and “moral” (pain and suffering) damages. Must be proven at trial. An award of moral damages depends on the Judge’s criteria and the circumstances of the loss.
PUNITIVE DAMAGES
Not available
LITIGATION COSTS
Between USD 10,000 and USD 50,000. These costs may vary depending on the circumstances of the case. The litigation costs shall be paid by the losing party. The costs shall not exceed 30% of the value of the claim. If there is no totally losing party (i.e. a totally favorable judgment is not awarded to any of the parties), each party shall bear its own costs.
LEGAL INTEREST RATE
3% per annum
FIRST INSTANCE JUDGMENT
1 YEAR
FINAL APPELLATE LEVEL
2 — 3 YEARS. There are two appellate levels available in Venezuela (Appellate and Cassation).
Does your country have a law or regulation which gives passengers the right to claim fixed compensation for:
- Delay/CancellationYes. Article 100 of the Civil Aeronautical Law provides that in case of delay or unjustified cancellation the compensation to the passenger shall amount up to SDR 4,150 (USD 5,800 = c.VES 1,300 at the current official exchange rate).
- Denied boarding?According to the Article 126 of the Civil Aeronautical Law, in that case air service operators can be fined 1,000 tax units (VES 20 = USD 4.5).
IF YES, WHEN DID IT COME INTO FORCE?
2009.
ECUADOR
CIVIL CODE
4 YEARS
AERONAUTICAL CODE
No time limits, but makes reference to the international conventions in force in Ecuador
CONSUMER CODE
1 YEAR
WARSAW SYSTEM
2 YEARS
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
2 YEARS
WARSAW SYSTEM*
In force and generally applied by courts.
*N.B.: Ecuador has ratified the following instruments which are part of the Warsaw System:
- Convention for the Unification of Certain Rules relating to International Carriage by Air (Warsaw, 12/10/29)
- Protocol to Amend the Warsaw Convention of 1929 (The Hague, 28/9/55)
- Additional Protocol No. 4 (Montreal, 25/9/75)
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
In force and generally applied by the courts.
WE USE AS A BENCHMARK FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES THE DAMAGES LIKELY TO BE RECOVERABLE IN THE FOLLOWING SCENARIO:
DEATH OF A 33 YEAR-OLD MALE, MARRIED, WITH 2 MINOR CHILDREN, EARNING USD 4,000 A MONTH/USD 48,000 PER ANNUM.
Average earnings in this jurisdiction would be considerably lower.
AVIATION
USD 1,536,000
There is no established liability limit.
NON-AVIATION
USD 1,536,000
Damages are high because there is no pre-established formula and the basic methodology is to multiply the years of work-life expectancy by the victim’s yearly salary, without applying any deductions. There is very limited case law (if any), so it is uncertain if the courts would apply a more simplistic formula as suggested or one that takes other factors into consideration, thus reducing the overall exposure risks. These figures are the worst-case-scenario. In practice, claims tend to be resolved out of court, for much lower figures, but more often this happens after considerable negotiating efforts, particularly because the plaintiffs’ counsel will often argue figures based on the simplistic formula.
PUNITIVE DAMAGES
Not applicable
LITIGATION COSTS
Generally, losing party pays for court costs and legal fees (limited by the judge).
LEGAL INTEREST RATE
Controversial whether interest applies to aviation accidents. If so, it accrues from the date of loss and is currently approximately 12% p.a. There is no monetary correction (Ecuador’s currency is the US Dollar).
18 MONTHS approximately
2 — 3 YEARS (in addition to above)
Does your country have a law or regulation which gives passengers the right to claim fixed compensation for:
- Delay
- Cancellation
- Denied boarding?
IF YES, WHEN DID IT COME INTO FORCE?
Yes, regulation 381 gives passengers the right to claim fixed compensations for delay, cancellation and denied boarding. It came into force in 2013.
GUYANA
TORTIOUS CLAIMS
3 YEARS
CONTRACTUAL CLAIMS
6 YEARS for some memorialized
AERONAUTICAL CODE
3 YEARS
CONSUMER LEGISLATION
3 YEARS
WARSAW SYSTEM
2 YEARS
WARSAW SYSTEM
2 YEARS
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
2 YEARS
WE USE AS A BENCHMARK FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES THE DAMAGES LIKELY TO BE RECOVERABLE IN THE FOLLOWING SCENARIO:
DEATH OF A 33 YEAR-OLD MALE, MARRIED, WITH 2 MINOR CHILDREN, EARNING USD 4,000 A MONTH/USD 48,000 PER ANNUM.
Average earnings in this jurisdiction would be considerably lower.
AVIATION
There have been no awards in aviation matters in the past fifteen years.
NON-AVIATION
USD 480,000.00 where the children are 4 years old and dependant on the father.
PUNITIVE DAMAGES
USD 5,000.00
LITIGATION COSTS
The costs are recoverable from the losing party and there is no cap on the quantum of costs which may be recovered. There is no specific method by which costs are calculated and it is currently granted at the discretion of the Court. Costs may be approximately USD 15,000
6% prior to judgment. 4% after judgment.
6% prior to judgment. 4% after judgment.
Does your country have a law or regulation which gives passengers the right to claim fixed compensation for:
- Delay
- Cancellation
- Denied boarding?
IF YES, WHEN DID IT COME INTO FORCE?
Currently, there are no such laws or regulations. However, the Guyana Consumer Affairs are seeking to have certain regulations introduced to govern these issues.
PERU
AERONAUTICAL CODE
Civil Aeronautics Act, Law No. 27261
Regulations of the Civil Aeronautics Law, Supreme Decree No. 050-2001-MTC
WARSAW SYSTEM
The convention for the unification of certain rules for the international carriage by air Montreal 1999
Decision 619 Rules for the Harmonisation of the Rights and Obligations of Users, Carriers and Operators of Air Transport Services in the Andean Community
WE USE AS A BENCHMARK FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES THE DAMAGES LIKELY TO BE RECOVERABLE IN THE FOLLOWING SCENARIO:
DEATH OF A 33 YEAR-OLD MALE, MARRIED, WITH 2 MINOR CHILDREN, EARNING USD 4,000 A MONTH/USD 48,000 PER ANNUM.
Average earnings in this jurisdiction would be considerably lower.
AVIATION
CIVIL AVIATION LAW
Article 116.- Carrier’s liability for passengers provides that in the carriage of passengers, the amount of the carrier’s liability in respect of each passenger for death, injury and damages suffered shall be that established in the respective regulations, unless a higher amount is fixed by a court decision, settlement or arbitration award.
Article 124- Determination of higher compensation.
The carrier shall not be liable for compensation in excess of the compensation provided for in the respective regulations, to the extent that it proves:
a) That the damage was not caused by inexcusable fault, wilful act or omission of the carrier or its servants in the performance of their duties, or
b) the damage was solely due to the inexcusable fault or other wilful act or omission of a third party.
REGULATION OF THE CIVIL AERONAUTICS LAW
Article 267.- In the carriage of persons, the amount of compensation of the carrier in relation to each passenger is as follows:
a) In case of death, the sum of 45,000 SDRs (c. USD 63,000);
b) In case of bodily injury, up to 45,000 SDRs.
If in cases of death or bodily injury the relatives or the passenger must prove the damage or loss exceeds the amounts indicated in letters a) and b) of the preceding paragraph, the carrier’s liability for the excess is subject to the provisions of Article 124 of the Law.
LITIGATION COSTS
The cost of the proceedings will be determined by the amount of the claim in the compensation proceedings, plus costs (payment of court fees) and costs (lawyer’s fees). The losing party must pay the winning party’s costs court fees and attorney’s fees.
2 YEARS
2 YEARS
In addition, one year would have to be added if the case reaches the Supreme Court.
Does your country have a law or regulation which gives passengers the right to claim fixed compensation for:
- DelayREGULATION OF THE CIVIL AERONAUTICS LAW.
Article 269- In case of damage resulting from delay in the carriage of passengers by air, the liability of the carrier is limited to 1,000 SDRs per passenger.
Additionally, the Decision 619 states:
Art. 8 (…)
– When the delay exceeds six hours, in addition to call, refreshments or food, the carrier shall compensate the passenger in accordance with the provisions of paragraph e) of this item *. It shall also provide accommodation in cases where it is necessary to stay overnight, transfer expenses, or reimbursement (immediate if not in their usual place of residence), at the passenger’s choice, unless the passenger voluntarily agrees to extend the wait.
e) Additional compensation. The air carrier shall compensate the passenger with a minimum sum equivalent to 25% of the value of the journey not performed, in cash or in any other form accepted by the passenger.
- CancellationREGULATION OF THE CIVIL AERONAUTICS LAW
Third paragraph of the Article 274-. In case of flight cancellation, the passenger may choose to travel on the next flight operated by the same carrier on the same or a similar route. In this case, the passenger is entitled to the payment of the ordinary costs of accommodation, food, communications and travel that are necessary.
- Denied boarding?REGULATION OF THE CIVIL AERONAUTICS LAW
Article 233- Once the contract of carriage has been concluded, if the carrier or the competent authority finds that, on boarding, the passenger shows obvious signs of mental disturbance or illness requiring emergency medical attention, is intoxicated, is under the influence of psychotropic substances or is in any other condition or state that could affect the normal course or jeopardise the safety of the flight, it may refuse or condition the passenger’s boarding and carriage. In such cases, the carrier is only obliged to refund the ticket price.
IF YES, WHEN DID IT COME INTO FORCE?
- Civil Aviation Law: 10 May 2000
- Regulation of the Civil Aeronautics Law: 22 December 2001
PARAGUAY
TORTIOUS / CONTRACTUAL CLAIMS
2 YEARS
AERONAUTICAL CODE
1 YEAR
CONSUMER LEGISLATION
1 YEAR
WARSAW SYSTEM
In force and generally applied by courts.
Paraguay has ratified the following instruments which are part of the Warsaw System:
- Convention for the Unification of Certain Rules relating to International Carriage by Air (Warsaw, 12/10/29)
- Protocol to amend the Warsaw Convention of 1929 (The Hague, 28/09/55)
- Convention, Supplementary to the Warsaw Convention, for the Unification of Certain Rules relating to International Carriage by Air Performed by a Person other than the Contracting Carrier (Guadalajara, 18/09/1961)
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
MC99 is in force.
The Paraguayan Supreme Court (PSC) has ruled that MC99 limits include both material and moral damages.
WE USE AS A BENCHMARK FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES THE DAMAGES LIKELY TO BE RECOVERABLE IN THE FOLLOWING SCENARIO:
DEATH OF A 33 YEAR-OLD MALE, MARRIED, WITH 2 MINOR CHILDREN, EARNING USD 4,000 A MONTH/USD 48,000 PER ANNUM.
Average earnings in this jurisdiction would be considerably lower.
AVIATION
In the context of domestic carriage, there is only one reported case from the 1980s where the Supreme Court awarded compensation for the passenger’s death
There is no reported case law applying either the Warsaw System or MC99 in case of death or bodily injury.
Total: c.USD 350,000 to USD 450,000
Comprising:
Material damages: c.USD 150,000 – USD 250,000
Moral damages: c.USD 200,000 (N.B.: awarded at the judge’s discretion. Amount estimated based on a recent non-aviation high profile case).
NON-AVIATION
As above
PUNITIVE DAMAGES
No
LITIGATION COSTS
Losing party bears the cost of the proceedings
LEGAL INTEREST RATE
of 2.5% a month applicable from the date of filing of the claim.
2 YEARS
4 YEARS
Does your country have a law or regulation which gives passengers the right to claim fixed compensation for:
- Delay
- Cancellation
- Denied boarding?
NO
CHILE
CIVIL CODE
5 YEARS
AERONAUTICAL CODE
1 YEAR
CONSUMER CODE
6 MONTHS
N.B.: Not applicable to aviation losses, but amendments to the law are expected that are expected to change this status.
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
2 YEARS
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
In force in Chile since 2009 and generally applied by the courts.
WE USE AS A BENCHMARK FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES THE DAMAGES LIKELY TO BE RECOVERABLE IN THE FOLLOWING SCENARIO:
DEATH OF A 33 YEAR-OLD MALE, MARRIED, WITH 2 MINOR CHILDREN, EARNING USD 4,000 A MONTH/USD 48,000 PER ANNUM.
Average earnings in this jurisdiction would be considerably lower.
AVIATION
Total: c.USD 880,000 at current rates (CLP719,300,000)– unless, unusually, a limit can be applied
Comprising:
Material damages: c.USD 738,000 (CLP604,000,000)
Moral damages: c.USD 134,000 (CLP109,800,000)
Funeral expenses: c.USD 3,500 (CLP2,750,000) to c.USD 7,000 (CLP5,500,000)
NON-AVIATION
Total: c.USD 678,500 at current rates (CLP555,400,000). No limits apply.
Comprising:
Material damages: c.USD 605,000 (CLP495,000,000)
Moral damages: c.USD 67,000 (CLP54,900,000)
Funeral expenses: c.USD 5,000 (CLP2,750,000) to c.USD 10,000 (CLP5,500,000)
PUNITIVE DAMAGES
Not applicable, except under Consumer Laws.
LITIGATION COSTS
In general, each party bears its own costs.
LEGAL INTEREST RATES
Average market rates applied as legal interest rates, but there is uncertainty in the law / jurisprudence regarding the date from which interest begins to accrue.
MONETARY CORRECTION
Correction is applicable when the claimant requests this. There is no set calculation mechanism. Also, there is uncertainty on the date upon which monetary correction starts to accrue.
2 — 4 YEARS
1 — 2 YEARS
(in addition to above)
Does Chile have a law or regulation which gives passengers the right to claim fixed compensation for:
- Delay
- Cancellation
- Denied boarding?
IF YES, WHEN DID IT COME INTO FORCE?
In such circumstances, where airline delayed or cancelled a flight for reasons of force majeure, security, weather or other similar events, it shall not be liable if it proves that it took the necessary measures to avoid the event causing the delay or cancellation.
1. WHAT RIGHTS DOES THE PASSENGER HAVE IN THE EVENT OF A DELAY OR CANCELLATION NOT ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE AIRLINE?
If the passenger decides to continue with the contract, he/she has the right to board the next available flight of the carrier or an alternative transport. In addition, if the delay is more than 3 hours or, in case of cancellation, the offered flight departs more than 3 hours later than the scheduled time of the cancelled flight, the passenger has the right to terminate the contract by requesting reimbursement of the ticket price.
2. WHAT HAPPENS TO CONNECTING FLIGHTS IN THE EVENT OF A FLIGHT DELAY OR CANCELLATION?
In the event of a delay or cancellation, the airline is liable for the connections as long as they are part of the same contract. If this is not the case, the airline is liable for missed connections and the resulting costs only if there is negligence on its part, and the affected passenger can take legal action in the courts to obtain compensation.
3. WHAT RIGHTS DOES THE PASSENGER HAVE IN THE EVENT OF A DELAY OR CANCELLATION ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE AIRLINE?
The passenger may choose whether to continue the contract of carriage by air. If the passenger decides to not to continue the contract of carriage, and the delay is more than 3 hours or, in case of cancellation, the offered flight departs more than 3 hours late, the passenger is entitled to a ticket price reimbursement and compensation for damages, if any.
4. CAN AN AIRLINE DENY BOARDING FOR BOOKING MORE TICKETS THAN SEATS AVAILABLE ON AN AIRCRAFT?
Yes, to mitigate the negative consequences arising from passenger “no shows”.
4.1 WHAT IS THE PROCEDURE IN CASE OF DENIED BOARDING DUE TO OVERBOOKING?
In the event of overbooking, the airline must ask for volunteers to surrender their reservations in exchange for agreed benefits. If the volunteers are not sufficient, and a passenger is denied boarding against his or her will, he or she has the rights described below.
The carrier must give priority boarding to unaccompanied children, persons with disabilities, elderly passengers or passengers in poor health, pregnant women who, because of their condition, require priority boarding and, in general, passengers who, for humanitarian reasons as determined by the carrier, should be given priority boarding.
4.2 WHAT RIGHTS DO PASSENGERS HAVE IN THE EVENT OF DENIED BOARDING DUE TO OVERBOOKING?
Passengers who are denied boarding and decide to terminate the air transport contract, and therefore, not to take the flight, have the following rights:
a.- Reimbursement of the price paid for the ticket; and
b.- Compensation according to the following table:
* UF STAND FOR UNIDADES DE FOMENTO, THEY ARE A VALUE, WHICH IS SELF-CORRECTED MONTHLY ACCORDING TO THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX, PUBLISHED MONTHLY.
THE CURRENT VALUE (IT IS REFERENTIAL IN CASE YOU WOULD LIKE TO INCORPORATE IT) IS USD 39.76 FOR EACH UF.
4.3. WHAT RIGHTS DOES THE PASSENGER HAVE IF HE/SHE IS DENIED BOARDING DUE TO OVERBOOKING ON A CONNECTION?
At the passenger’s choice:
- Boarding on the next flight that the carrier has available or on an alternative transport and shall be entitled to financial compensation and benefits.
- Not to board and will be entitled to reimbursement of the value of the unused portion of the journey, in addition to the financial compensation; or
- Be returned to the point of departure with reimbursement of the fare, in addition to the financial compensation and welfare benefits specified.
ARGENTINA
AERONAUTICAL CODE
Depending on the type of claim, time limits may range from six months to two years. For claims related to damages caused to passengers, baggage or transported goods the time limit is one year.
WARSAW SYSTEM
2 YEARS
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
2 YEARS
WARSAW SYSTEM
Approved by Argentina on September 30, 1951 under Law No. 14,111. Argentina had also approved the Hague Protocol to amend the Warsaw Convention (1955) under Law No. 17,386 and the Additional Protocol No. 1, 2 and 3 and the Montreal Protocol No. 4 under Law No. 23,556.
MONTREAL CONVENTION 1999
Approved by Argentina on December 3, 2008 under Law No. 26,451. It came into force on January 22, 2009.
WE USE AS A BENCHMARK FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES THE DAMAGES LIKELY TO BE RECOVERABLE IN THE FOLLOWING SCENARIO:
DEATH OF A 33 YEAR-OLD MALE, MARRIED, WITH 2 MINOR CHILDREN, EARNING USD 4,000 A MONTH/USD 48,000 PER ANNUM.
Average earnings in this jurisdiction would be considerably lower.
AVIATION
There are no current official statistics from the National Civil Aviation Administration nor from the federal judicial power and there are significant fluctuations in the exchange rate. It is, therefore, difficult to reasonably estimate quantification of damages.
The Aeronautical Code does not offer guidelines for judges to value damages and merit compensations. However, it does provide liability limits for the carriers. Passenger claims, including both material and moral damages are limited to 1,000 Argentinos Oro (c. USD 390,000 at current rates).
NON-AVIATION
A monthly income of USD 4,000 is considered high in Argentina. On average with such income, an Argentine court might grant compensation of approximately ARS 6,000,000 plus interest (i.e. USD 54,000 at the current exchange rate) plus ARS 4,500,000 (i.e. USD 40,000) for moral damages to a widow and two children.
PUNITIVE DAMAGES
Punitive damages are not regulated in the Aeronautical Code nor in Resolution No. 1532/1998 on the General Conditions for Air Transport Contract but in the Consumer Law (“LDC” – Law No. 24,240, Article 52 bis). Punitive damages have only been applied in certain isolated and debatable aviation cases.
LITIGATION COSTS
In principle, costs are borne by the losing party. Depending on the circumstances, costs can be roughly estimated at approximately 40% of the amount in dispute, including interest.
LEGAL INTEREST RATES
When the sum claimed is expressed in Argentine pesos, courts tend to fix an annual interest, currently 40%. However, for compensations denominated in US dollars, interest is usually fixed at a 8% annual rate. Under certain circumstances, compound interest can be claimed.
4 — 5 YEARS
1 — 2 YEARS
(assuming no Supreme Court intervention)
Does your country have a law or regulation which gives passengers the right to claim fixed compensation for:
- Delay
- Cancellation
- Denied boarding?
IF YES, WHEN DID IT COME INTO FORCE?
There is no fixed compensation for delay, cancellation or denied boarding; however, Resolution No. 1532/98 expressly addresses certain passengers’ rights when an airline fails to comply with its schedules or itineraries, cancels the flight or denies boarding.
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CONSOLAÇÃO
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CEP: 01.228-200
© HFW LLP 2022. Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (No. 509977). The information provided is intended to give general information, as at 1 January 2022, about certain legal topics and is not a complete statement of the law. It must not be relied upon or act as a substitute for legal advice in relation to particular circumstances. Accordingly, we do not accept any liability for any loss which may arise from reliance upon the information it contains.