Opinion ID: 455801
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: Public Policy Defenses

Text: 39 Jeppesen argues that it is unfair to hold a chart manufacturer strictly liable for accurately republishing a government regulation. We agree. If, for example, a trade journal had accurately published the government's instrument approach procedure in text form and a pilot had used the procedure as printed in the journal, the journal would be immune from strict liability. This case, however, does not present that situation. Jeppesen's charts are more than just a republication of the text of the government's procedures. Jeppesen converts a government procedure from text into graphic form and represents that the chart contains all necessary information. For example, Jeppesen's catalog contains the following statements: 40 When pilots compare approach plates ... for information, for readibility ... they choose Jeppesen. Why? Because the format of Jeppesen charts was designed by pilots, for pilots, and has been time-tested and proven by instrument pilots throughout the world. Every necessary detail is clearly indicated.... 41 Jeppesen approach plates include ... EVERYTHING you need for a smooth transition from enroute to approach segment of your flight. 42 It is true that the government's procedures are significant components of Jeppesen's charts. It is apparent, however, that Jeppesen's charts are more than a mere republication of the government's procedures. Indeed, Jeppesen's charts are distinct products. As the manufacturer and marketer of those products, Jeppesen assumed the responsibility for insuring that the charts are not unreasonably dangerous in their intended use. 43 Jeppesen also claims a privilege under Cal.Civ.Code Sec. 47(4). Section 47(4) only applies to reports in a public journal. Jeppesen's charts are not a public journal.