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 a matter concerning the interpretation of sanction regulations in relation to Russian aircraft leases and a compensation claim under European Commission Regulation 261/2004. Commentators say the set is a "first port of call for big-ticket commercial aviation disputes. It has real depth of knowledge at all levels of seniority". 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 various insurance claims relating to sanctioned Russian aircraft and litigation resulting from the Leicester City Helicopter Crash. Commentators say "the set has highly knowledgeable barristers with excellent commercial acumen." 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 acting for airlines and claimants in disputes regarding maintenance reserves, and handling cases involving Regulation 261 and leasing claims. Commentators say the barristers are "savvy with respect to the aviation sector and its intricacies. They are hard-working and creative in delivering results." Paul Horsfield is the Head of Clerking.