UK Bar London (Bar) Aviation

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 on 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, often acting for clients across Africa and Asia. Recent work highlights for the set include acting for AerCap in a dispute with Ryanair over its refusal to take delivery of four aircraft. Another matter includes advising Bombardier on the sale of its subsidiary Short Brothers to Spirit Aerosystems. One commentator notes: "It is evident that their advice takes into consideration continuing developments and trends within the clients' industry, and that they are commercially sensible." Another commentator says: "I regard them as the best chambers in aviation."

Quadrant Chambers wields considerable expertise in aviation law, with a strong track record 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. Recent highlights include acting for the insurers of Aerostat, operator of an airship at Uluru which was destroyed in a thunderstorm, in claims against a contracted manufacturer for damages. One commentor says: "Quadrant Chambers are the pre-eminent set when it comes to marine and aviation litigation." Another commentor remarks: "They are a very good set in aviation; they have the greatest variety of work and experience."

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 Cathay Pacific in a long-term maintenance contract dispute related to 27 of its jet engines and representing Wallis Trading in a $30 million lease-related claim against Air Tanzania. One commentor notes: "The barristers show real knowledge and depth of understanding of the aviation sector and emerging trends."