FlightAware sues Kalshi over flight data and trademark use

FlightAware sued Kalshi for unauthorized use of its data and trademark in flight cancellation betting markets, seeking to halt Kalshi’s activities due to safety and reputational risks.

FlightAware has filed a lawsuit against Kalshi in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. The suit alleges that Kalshi used FlightAware’s data and trademark without authorization to operate prediction markets on flight cancellations. According to the complaint, Kalshi breached its contract, infringed on FlightAware’s trademark, and engaged in unfair competition. FlightAware claims Kalshi used its data to settle bets and falsely presented the companies as close partners, harming FlightAware’s reputation and potentially incentivizing unsafe practices that could disrupt airline operations. FlightAware is seeking a temporary restraining order, injunctions to stop Kalshi’s use of its data and name, and damages. Kalshi had already suspended its flight cancellation contracts due to safety concerns and now faces additional legal challenges, including a separate suit from New York over alleged illegal gambling.