Department profile
Smith, Gambrell & Russell, LLP

Transportation: Aviation: Finance

USA Guide 2026 : USA - Nationwide


Smith, Gambrell & Russell, LLP

Rankings

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Transportation: Aviation: Finance - USA - Nationwide

Band 2

Band 2


What the Team is Known For
Smith, Gambrell & Russell houses an established aviation finance group, acts for leasing companies and domestic airlines, as well as clients in the banking sector. Advises on operating leases, aircraft portfolio transactions, asset-backed securitizations and refinancings.

Work Highlights

Provided by Chambers

  • Smith, Gambrell & Russell represented Vmo in its sale to LATAM of 11 aircraft then on-lease to LATAM. The sale transaction included the release of the aircraft from financing and related liens.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • The Smith, Gambrell & Russell team balances things just right: business acumen, clear reasons for holding positions, fostering collegiality in a deal, and arguing when necessary.

    Transportation: Aviation: Finance respondentUSA
  • The law firm has tremendous knowledge and expertise. In my opinion, they perfectly combine the legal aspects of the transaction with a commercial view of it too.

    Transportation: Aviation: Finance respondentUSA
  • Smith, Gambrell & Russell is extremely responsive and take quick action to close matters quickly - a highly sought out trait in our fast-paced business.

    Transportation: Aviation: Finance respondentUSA
  • I find SGR to be proactive in their attention to deals, thinking ahead and trying to address issues before I need to raise them.

    Transportation: Aviation: Finance respondentUSA
  • The partners and associates we work with at the firm are incredibly experienced and knowledgeable in the aviation finance space.

    Transportation: Aviation: Finance respondentUSA

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Band 2Joshua D Gentner
    Band 2Joshua D Gentner

    Joshua D Gentner

    Joshua Gentner is widely recognized in the market for his established transactional practice, representing significant clients in the financial sector, as well as airlines. His expertise covers lease financings and securitizations, among other matters.
    • Josh is one of our company's most valued partners, with a deep knowledge of aviation finance and exceptional instincts.

      Transportation: Aviation: Finance respondentUSA
    • Josh is incredibly knowledgeable, articulate and approachable, with a great sense of humor.

      Transportation: Aviation: Finance respondentUSA
  • Band 3Jeffrey S Tenen
    Band 3Jeffrey S Tenen

    Jeffrey S Tenen

    Jeffrey Tenen is adept at handling issues such as asset-based financings and credit facilities.
    • Jeffrey has incredible knowledge and expertise in the different aircraft transactions and contracts.

      Transportation: Aviation: Finance respondentUSA
  • Band 3Marc D Latman
    Band 3Marc D Latman

    Marc D Latman

    Marc Latman handles sale and leaseback transactions on behalf of aircraft leasing companies. He also manages restructurings for sector clients.
    • Marc is always a pleasure to work with. He has a firm grasp of all the issues on his deals and good commercial awareness to focus on what is important to our business.

      Transportation: Aviation: Finance respondentUSA
    • Marc is an absolute pleasure to work with. His friendly attitude and goal-oriented nature make even the hardest issues fun and, more importantly, lead to positive interactions with our customers lead to positive results for our business.

      Transportation: Aviation: Finance respondentUSA
    • The ultimate client focused large firm partner. Marc always has his clients interests at heart. He's practical and is just a really kind human being and he's great at what he does.

      Transportation: Aviation: Finance respondentUSA
  • Band 3Peter Barlow
    Band 3Peter Barlow

    Peter Barlow

    Peter Barlow is commended for his expertise in aviation financings. He has particular experience of aviation sector restructurings and bankruptcy proceedings. He represents leasing companies, airlines and financing parties.
    • An expert in the field and an incredible human being. He's always responsive.

      Transportation: Aviation: Finance respondentUSA

Ranked Individuals at Smith, Gambrell & Russell, LLP (4)

USA - Nationwide

Members

Provided by Smith, Gambrell & Russell, LLP

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