Tragedy Echoes Through Aviation Industry
The 2020 crash sent ripples through the firefighting aviation community. The K-Max, a workhorse helicopter known for its precision and lifting power, was considered reliable—until the accident exposed vulnerabilities in its construction.
Experts testified that Kaman could have identified and addressed the flaw earlier, potentially saving Duffy’s life. The case underscores the life-and-death stakes of aircraft manufacturing standards and the enormous costs of cutting corners.
While Kaman has not commented on the ruling, the company’s representatives—Mark S. Williams of Williams Law Firm PC and Kevin M. Smith and Robyn Gallagher of Wiggin and Dana LLP—are expected to challenge aspects of the judgment.
Central Copters and the Duffy family are represented by Kellie Gaston Sironi of Gaston Law Firm, Matthew B. Hayhurst and Tyler M. Stockton of Boone Karlberg PC, and Calvin J. Stacey of Stacey & Funyak.
A Verdict That Soars Beyond Numbers
The Kaman Aerospace $22M Crash Verdict is more than a financial reckoning—it’s a stark reminder of how engineering missteps can lead to tragedy and how the law can hold even industry titans accountable.
As the court’s interest clock continues to tick, Kaman faces not only a mounting payout but also a lasting blow to its reputation within the aerospace and defense sector.
