Article

The EU's Directive (EU) 2024/2853 modernizes its product liability regime, mandating transposition by December 9, 2026. The PLD expands the definition of 'product' to include software, AI, and digital functionalities, affecting aviation and aerospace companies.

Liability for products made outside the EU will follow a hierarchy, starting with importers if manufacturers are not EU-based. The directive allows for collective actions on behalf of consumers and eliminates the 'state-of-the-art' defense in some cases. Companies must enhance risk controls and adapt to the new legal landscape to mitigate potential litigation exposure.