Aviation is mankind at its dynamic best; using science to imagine flight, taking the risk to achieve it, and then developing the technology, private enterprise, and governmental structures to nurture it to become preeminent in the movement of people for business and recreation. We will explore the role of government in aviation, the international framework for aviation, the certification and operation of air carriers and aircraft, the operation of airports, and contractual issues unique to aviation. We will examine special issues arising from aviation litigation, including the liability of pilots, owners, fixed base operators, repair stations, insurers, scheduled air carriers and charter operators. We will also discuss the law of accident investigations, multi- district litigation, and the application of jurisdiction, choice of law and forum non conveniens to aviation.