1. Continental Airlines was cleared of criminal blame but stilled bore civil liability. What is the difference between criminal liability and civil liability? Why could the same party be cleared of one type of liability while still bearing another type of liability?
2. The accident was caused by the mechanic's error. Then why was Continental Airlines as a company held liable?
3. The court ruled that "EADS bore some liability for the accident". What is the type of the responsibility of EADS?
4. CO was ordered to pay Air France just over €1 million for damaging its reputation, whereas the latter paid more than €120 million to the victim's families. Why did Air France have to pay compensation to the victim's families?
5. What is vicarious liability? Why is Air France held liable for the death of the crew member in the second case but not for the death of the passengers and other victims in the first case?
Bonus question to question 5: in the second case, who will eventually pay the damages? Air France or the employee?
6. Do you think that Air France could be held liable toward shareholders or stockholders in the first or in the second case?