Which laws govern the commercial use of outer space? Are States responsible for mitigating space debris? Who is liable for accidents that happen onboard an the aircraft? In our Advanced LL.M. Air and Space Law you will learn how to deal with questions like these from both an international and a European perspective.

What does this master's programme entail?

The LL.M. programme Air and Space Law combines public air law, private air law and space law. It has a clearly defined European and international dimension, making it unique in the world. In this intensive one-year master’s programme, you will gain a solid legal foundation in this exciting field, learning from some of the foremost experts in academia and legal practice.

You will learn how to address a wide variety of issues that affect society, such as:

• passenger safety
• accident investigation
• environmental protection
• the use of drones
• fair competition
• sustainability of space activities
• militarisation of outer space

Reasons to choose Air and Space Law at Leiden University?

As a student of Advanced Studies in Air and Space Law, you will benefit from:

• International environment: In addition to the international focus of the curriculum, the unique blend of students and instructors that represent all continents makes our programme a truly global experience.
• Expert instructors: You will be taught by expert faculty from the International Institute of Air and Space Law, visiting international professors and distinguished legal practitioners specialised in specific aspects of air and space law.
• Excellent reputation: Leiden Law School has developed its reputation for excellence by combining a high level of academic teaching with acclaimed and innovative research. Its tradition of quality attracts prestigious professors and professionals from around the world who teach you in a challenging and supportive atmosphere.

Is Air and Space Law the right programme for you?

Are you fascinated by the myriad legal issues involved with aviation and aerospace activities? The advanced master programme Air and Space Law will help you gain a thorough understanding of the international and European dimensions of this complex, cutting-edge field.

This programme is a good fit for you if you are a law graduate wishing to pursue a challenging master’s study or a legal practitioner wishing to specialise in air and space law who is currently working at for example a(n):

• internationally operating law firm
• private company (e.g. airline, aircraft parts manufacturer)
• civil aviation authority
• telecommunications organisation
• governmental organisation.

Career prospects

The Air and Space Law programme prepares you for a successful career in this growing field, in Europe or around the world.

Many of our graduates find positions in:

• law firms or consulting firms with an aviation and space law practice
• legal departments of airports, airlines and aerospace companies
• civil aviation authorities
• ministries of transportation
• space organisations like the European Space Agency
• academia

With the liberalisation of the European aviation laws and the growing number of actors operating in outer space, the already high demand for experts in this field is only expected to increase.