Aviation | UK Bar

Fountain Court Chambers is a pre-eminent set for aviation matters and boasts an enviable bench of leading commercial aviation litigators who offer expertise across a wide range of disputes. Members are particularly well regarded for handling airport slot mandates, as well as advising on matters pertaining to product liability, negligence and breaches of competition law. The set represents an impressive roster of major airlines, airports, manufacturers and creditors in a range of financial, contractual and regulatory compliance matters. Members here often appear in hearings before the Civil Aviation Authority. The set offers extensive international capabilities, with members acting for clients across Africa and Asia. Recent cases handled by members of the set include leasing disputes in connection with the destruction of aircraft at Khartoum Airport and advice regarding stranded aircraft in Russia following the invasion of Ukraine.

Alex Taylor is the senior clerk.

Quadrant Chambers wields considerable expertise in aviation law, and has a strong track record of acting in high-profile and complex disputes. The set demonstrates notable strength when it comes to personal injury claims, often on behalf of claimants following fatal accidents. Barristers at Quadrant act for major international airlines and individuals in complex insurance matters, criminal investigations, and CAA and AAIB inquiries. Members of the set are also well versed in a range of regulatory disputes. Individuals here have appeared recently in several claims relating to a number of aircraft stranded in Russia, and have worked on the inquest into the death of Emiliano Sala. They have also acted for Mrs Ashley & family in Ashley v Leonardo SpA a fatal accident claim brought by the family of a military pilot who died when a Leonardo M346-FA aircraft crashed in Italy. Commentators say: "The set has barristers with very strong technical knowledge and understanding of the aviation sector, who are highly commercial in their advice."

Simon Slattery is the senior clerk.

XXIV Old Buildings deploys a wealth of expertise across a broad range of aviation matters. The set's strong silks and juniors are recognised for their handling of complex product liability, negligence and insurance claims in the industry. Members here regularly handle high-value litigation both for and against major operators, airports and owners in matters pertaining to aircraft leases, repossessions and contractual disputes. Barristers at the set are particularly adept at advising airlines on compensation claims and other insolvency issues. Recent work highlights for the set include Optimares SpA v Qatar Airways, a USD100 million dispute arising from the termination of orders for new equipment, and a leasing dispute representing Saudi Arabian Airlines.

Paul Horsfield is the Head of Clerking.