Camilleri Preziosi‘s multidisciplinary approach, particularly its collaboration with the firm’s tax team, leaves the group in a strong place to advise on the tax elements of aviation transactions and aviation finance. The group regularly assists major international banks and other financiers and lessors. Steve Decesare heads up the team and is trusted by a client roster built up over many years of major Maltese airlines and airports. Another key team member is Carla Barthet, who often advises on financing, collateralisation and regulatory issues associated with aircraft.

Praised for its ability to combine sector knowledge with practical experience, Ganado Advocates‘ shipping and yachting practice is turned to by a variety of owners, operators and their financiers, which includes major Maltese airlines. As well as providing advice on aircraft registration, the group often advises on aircraft transactions and on aircraft security interests, and more recently, in 2024, the group has advised clients on aircraft arrests. Daniel Aquilina, who is particularly reputed within aircraft registrations and aircraft M&A, heads up the team with Matthew Xerri, who is ‘knowledgeable on all matters involving Maltese law in aviation finance transactions.’ 

Mamo TCV Advocates has a core strength in asset finance in the aviation industry, on top of its strength in regulatory matters. The group has a track record of assisting clients with conversion into aviation cell companies. Nicholas Valenzia and Joseph Camilleri head up the team, the latter of whom stands out for aircraft litigation and is often engaged in the group’s matters in that space. The pair assist the group’s diverse client base, which includes major Maltese airlines and international banks. Joshua Chircop is key for structured financing transactions.

Fenech & Fenech Advocates advises a robust client base of Maltese private jet operators, banks and commercial airlines, displaying strength in areas ranging from aircraft registration and aircraft registration mortgages to aircraft sale and purchase transactions. The group is also skilled in advising aircraft operators on licensing requirements. Practice head Joseph Ghio brings expertise in high-value contractual disputes in the aviation industry, including breach of chartering contract disputes.

The multidisciplinary team at Chetcuti Cauchi Advocates assists a variety of clients, from start-ups to tour operators, on a broad range of aviation transactions, including the purchase and sale of aircraft through special purpose vehicles for financing. As well as acting in contractual disputes, the firm also provides representation in aviation mediation. Charlene Mifsud heads up the team, drawing from her experience acting as a local representative for international airlines. Susanna Grech Deguara is another standout practitioner.

GVZH Advocates has a niche in advising aviation companies on AOC applications and also often advises clients on aviation finance and aircraft registration. Michael Grech and Ann Bugeja are the duo heading up the team, with the latter, promoted to partner in July 2024, often advising aircraft operators on maintenance agreements.