Pennsylvania § 5502 - Damage to persons and property on ground.
Full text of Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 5502 — Damage to persons and property on ground., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 5502. Damage to persons and property on ground.
(a) General rule.--The owner and the pilot, or either of them, of an aircraft which is operated over the lands or waters of this Commonwealth shall be liable for injuries or damage to persons or property on or over the land or water beneath, caused by the ascent, descent or flight of aircraft or the dropping or falling of any object therefrom in accordance with the law applicable to torts on land in this Commonwealth.
(b) Definition.--As used in this section the word "owner" includes a person having full title to aircraft and operating it through agents and also includes a bona fide lessee or bailee of the aircraft whether gratuitously or for hire. It does not include a bona fide bailor or lessor of the aircraft, whether gratuitously or for hire, or a mortgagee, secured party, trustee for creditors of the aircraft or other persons having a security title only. The owner of the aircraft shall not be liable when the pilot of the aircraft is in possession thereof as a result of theft or felonious conversion. The person in whose name an aircraft is registered with the United States Department of Transportation is prima facie the owner of the aircraft within the meaning of this section.
Source: official Pennsylvania text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsylvania § 5502
What does Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 5502 cover?
Section 5502 ("Damage to persons and property on ground.") is part of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, the codified statutory law of Pennsylvania. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Pennsylvania § 5502?
A common citation format is "Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 5502" (Pennsylvania). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Pennsylvania law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Pennsylvania official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Pennsylvania attorney.
How does Pennsylvania § 5502 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania.