Transportation: Aviation

DLA Piper is a well-established global firm with a strong footprint in the transportation industry in Canada. Lauded for its extensive experience in the rail sector, the transportation team regularly represents shippers in disputes against railway companies, notably in rail level of service arbitrations and final offer arbitrations. It possesses further expertise in rail rate reasonableness cases. The firm is also highly regarded for its expertise in the aviation sector, advising domestic and international air carriers on regulatory and litigation matters, including defence against class actions. Its lawyers also provide transactional and commercial advice for players in the aviation industry, and it is active in aircraft finance.

"They do fantastic work on a tight timeline and are very responsive, providing fantastic service."

"They are very good at what they do and have an excellent understanding of applicable regulations while developing strategies for their clients."

"The team has strong expertise in large projects. They did a great job of providing us with budget updates on a regular basis."

"The work has been excellent and I have been impressed with the individuals handling the matter."

DLA Piper acted for Air Canada in a class action in Saskatchewan regarding alleged fee fixing for passenger baggage.

Catherine Pawluch advises domestic and international airlines on all aspects of regulatory aviation law. She has experience advising on the transportation of passengers and cargo, as well as representing clients before aviation regulatory authorities. She is co-chair of the aviation group and is based in Toronto.

John Landry is instructed by shippers from a range of industries in rate reasonableness cases alongside other service complaints before the Canadian Transportation Agency. He has additional expertise in final offer arbitrations. Based in Vancouver, he co-chairs the firm's Canadian litigation and rail groups. "John Landry is an excellent resource for us."

Laura Safran KC provides regulatory advice including tariff updates, as well as certification and licensing assistance to a range of domestic and international airlines. A respected Calgary-based lawyer, she co-leads the firm's Canada aviation group.

Alex Hudson is an up-and-coming lawyer based in DLA Piper's Vancouver office. He has significant experience representing clients in regulatory proceedings before the Canadian Transportation Agency concerning tariff and level of ‎service complaints.