A tragic aviation incident has led to a significant legal battle involving a family and two major airlines. Rafik Chaib, along with his minor son Zackary Chaib, represented by his mother Souad Chaib, filed a lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia on January 16, 2026. The defendants in this case are Southern Airways Express, LLC and United Airlines, Inc.
The plaintiffs allege that both airlines failed in their duty to provide safe transportation, resulting in a traumatic crash on January 19, 2024. The Chaibs were traveling from Boston to Lancaster, Pennsylvania via Dulles International Airport when the Southern Airways Express-operated flight experienced catastrophic engine failure shortly after takeoff from Dulles. This forced an emergency landing on Highway 606 near Dulles Airport. The plaintiffs claim that they endured severe physical and emotional trauma due to the crash’s impact and aftermath.
According to the complaint, Southern Airways Express is accused of negligence for providing an unairworthy aircraft that suffered mechanical failure mid-flight. The plaintiffs assert that the airline had a non-delegable duty to ensure passenger safety by maintaining airworthy aircraft and competent pilots. They further argue that United Airlines shares liability due to its interline agreement with Southern Airways Express, which facilitated the sale of multi-leg itineraries including flights operated by SAE.
Rafik Chaib alleges he sustained physical injuries such as post-concussion syndrome and whiplash, along with severe emotional distress manifesting as PTSD and depression. His son Zackary also reportedly suffers from PTSD and other psychological issues impacting his academic performance and soccer career. These conditions have allegedly led to financial losses for Rafik due to diminished earning capacity.
The plaintiffs seek compensation for their injuries and losses through multiple claims against both airlines. They invoke legal doctrines such as negligence per se under common carrier obligations and breach of contract regarding the provision of safe air travel services. Additionally, they assert claims based on apparent agency theory against United Airlines for SAE’s alleged negligence.
Representing the plaintiffs are attorneys Patrick M. Regan from Regan Zambri Long PLLC; Anthony Tarricone; Joseph P. Musacchio; and Jason L. Vincent from Kreindler & Kreindler LLP—some pending pro hac vice admission status for this case (Case ID: 1:26-cv-00128).
Source: 126cv00128_Chaib_v_Southern_Airways_Express_LLC_Complaint_Eastern_District_Virginia.pdf
