LAW4662 - Air and space law - 2018

This unit focuses on the study of air and space law from the perspective of international and comparative law. Air Law covers the rules concerning the status of the airspace and civil aviation activities. Students will study the legal framework on international operation of aircraft, the repression of offences against aircraft, and the liability regime for damage caused by aircraft. Part of the unit will be devoted to the relationship between airlines and passengers. Space law covers the uses of outer space. Students will study the status of this area, the rules for its exploration and exploitation as well as the liability regime covering space activities. Students will also analyse the rules for space applications (satellite telecommunications, satellite TV, earth observation, space flight, military uses).

On completion of this unit, students will have:

• knowledge and understanding of key international concepts and principles of air and space law
• knowledge and understanding of international legislation in the core areas of air and space law
• knowledge and understanding of national legislation in the core areas of space law
• an ability to apply these concepts, principles, legislation and policy to concrete situations
• an ability to conduct independent research in air and space law and convey the results of this and the above objectives both orally and in writing.

Research paper (can be done individually - 1,500 words - or in a group of 3 students - 3,000 words): 30 %

Choice of two of the following three:

• mini moot: 10 %
• in class case analysis: 10%
• presentation on research paper: 10%

Take-home examination: 50 %

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. The unit requires on average three/four hours of scheduled activities per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

See also Unit timetable information