Clayton Utz fields a dedicated aviation team with leading expertise in regulatory matters. As a result of its expertise, the team continues to act on high-profile airport infrastructure projects and developments. In addition, the team is known for the assistance it gives airport operators concerning the full spectrum of commercial agreements. Andrew Leece is a well-respected aviation specialist who regularly caters to government and private sector clients on various matters, and James Kendal has advised on several critical aviation developments. Sarah Jones’ regulatory understanding helps facilitate infrastructure projects on or near airport sites, including with planning and approvals advice.

Allens is frequently called upon to provide strategic advice concerning developments, corporate governance, competition and privacy matters, and major renegotiations. On behalf of airport clients, Victoria Holthouse covers a range of significant issues including real estate development and an array of other commercial agreements. Sonia Millen joined the practice from Qantas in November 2023 and is a known name in the industrial relations space. Julian Donnan routinely advises airports on M&A, structuring, and capital raising. David Donnelly brings key knowledge of infrastructure, energy, and construction projects.

Airlines, insurers, operators, and aerospace organisations are frequent clients of Norton White’s busy aviation practice. The team’s broad workload includes insurance and liability, aviation regulation, competition law, and general commercial matters, such as M&A and aircraft finance. Adam Martin assists his clients with various commercial matters, including M&A and aircraft acquisition. Nick Humphrey has amassed considerable experience with high-value litigation and arbitration. A leading aviation practitioner, Ben Martin plays a key role in the firm’s transactional undertakings. On behalf of airlines and operators, Mark MacKrell regularly acts on regulatory, liability, insurance, and commercial issues.

Aviation insurance claims and policy wording matters are both mainstays of Colin Biggers & Paisley’s aviation practice. Recent months have seen the team act on many high-stakes disputes concerning personal injury and loss of life. Andrew Tulloch’s dispute expertise has been called upon by insurers and individual passengers or their families following damaging aviation incidents. Tim Coghlan’s practice focuses on the defence of personal injury claims, statutory recoveries, and occupiers’ liability matters.

K&L Gates caters to a wide range of clients on matters concerning aviation operational systems, regulatory frameworks, cross-border transactions, and environmental concerns. The team is also regularly entrusted to take the lead in litigated disputes. Tom Young brings a vital understanding of aviation regulation, often advising airports, aerodromes, and operators in this regard. Sandra Steele intervenes on contentious and non-contentious construction matters. Chris Wille has over 20 years of experience acting for airport clients.

Mills Oakley’s aviation practice splits its time between advising aviation operators on all aspects of airline services and airports on construction and regulatory issues. The team also has expertise in aircraft leasing, trading, and maintenance arrangements. Gavin Douglas is skilled in the drafting and negotiation of complex aviation contracts, including those concerning investments, M&A, leasing, and aircraft trading. Rechelle Brost strengthens the practice with her distinct construction law experience, from major projects to day-to-day maintenance.

Sparke Helmore Lawyers has a solid reputation amongst major airports for their effective defence of airside and landside personal injury claims. The group is also noted for its activity regarding insurance and risk management matters. Mark Sainsbury is well-versed in the intricacies of professional negligence and personal injury claims, often defending claims following aviation accidents. Naomi Simmons is a key contact for environmental, planning, and local government issues. Kerri Thomas is an experienced litigator, whereas Suzy Cairney focuses on transactional matters.