Thomas

FACTS AND PROCEDURAL HISTORY

The Lawsuit Arising From an Accident in Australia In 2020, a helicopter owned and piloted by Troy Robert Thomas (decedent) had a catastrophic mechanical failure in Broome, Western Australia. During takeoff, the tail rotor and empennage broke off. Decedent and a passenger perished; two people were seriously injured. A lawsuit was brought in California against the manufacturer, respondent Robinson

2 Helicopter Company, Inc. Plaintiffs are citizens and residents of Australia.1 Robinson is based in California. The complaint alleges that the helicopter was designed, manufactured, tested, assembled, distributed, licensed, marketed, warranted, and sold in the County of Los Angeles. Manufacturing defects allegedly led to the crash, and Robinson did not disclose that the aircraft was susceptible to loss of its rotor system. The pleading asserts causes of action for strict product liability, breach of warranty, and negligence. Forum Non Conveniens Motion Respondent moved to dismiss or stay the action, claiming Australia is the appropriate forum for the lawsuit and California is an inconvenient forum. Appellants and decedent are Australian citizens and…