Next Generation Partners

Transport in Israel

FISCHER (FBC & Co.)

FISCHER (FBC & Co.)‘s team is particularly noted for its presence in the aviation field, where sources attest to its ‘serious involvement in the areas of litigation and legislation‘. Other sector sweet spots for this full-service team include the shipping, rail and automotive spheres. Group head Shirly Kazir strikes a balance between commercial litigation and transactional matters, with a focus on aviation and maritime disputes. Associate Amir Varon supports the litigation, maritime, and tourism and aviation teams and is acclaimed as ‘dedicated, driven and creative‘.

Practice head(s):

Shirly Kazir


Other key lawyers:

Yoram Bonen; Gilad Winkler; Amir Varon; Lior Linhard


Testimonials

‘FBC & Co is a fantastic legal services provider in the field of transport & aviation. They have great market presence, serious involvement in the areas of litigation & legislation and they also have a very strong track record of representing the industry and foreign companies in Israel.’

‘I am a mediator and Shirly Kazir and her team have appeared before me many times. The proceedings involve complex disputes, many of which are prominent class actions. The cases traditionally involve fundamental issues in the arenas of aviation and tourism, some with cross-border implications.’

‘In proceedings that I have mediated, Shirly Kazir always stands out favorably, as a lawyer who excels in providing professional and knowledgeable advice, while maintaining her determination and creativity, a combination that almost always yields positive results for her clients.’

‘Associate Amir Varon is professional, dedicated, driven and creative.’

‘Professional and knowledgeable advocates, 24/7 availability, good value for money, contribute more than agreed in contract, able to provide practical answers – taking into consideration commercial needs vs. legal requirements.’

‘Very responsive and available. We have had positive experiences working with Shirly Kazir and associate Lior Linhard for a number of European airline clients.’

‘Excellent knowledge of the field of civil aviation, especially in a situation as in Israel where there are complex laws governing this field.’

‘Shirly Kazir is knowledgeable, always willing to help and she and her staff provide our company with helpful information on the subject when dealing with court claims.’

Key clients

Turkish Airlines


Imperium Jets Inc.


Travel, Eat, Connect LTD


Glow Glamping


Arbel Finance


TUS Airways


Emirates


Etihad Airways


Fly Dubai


Amerijet International Airlines, Inc.


Transavia the Netherlands


Onur Air


Dao Shipping


COMSA SSA


Afconn Ltd.


Yamaha Motor Europe N.V.


Virgin Atlantic


DHL Express (Israel) Ltd.


Talma Travel & Tours Ltd.


Lufthansa Group (Austrian Airlines, Lufthansa, Swiss International Airlines, Deutsche Lufthansa)


Hyundai Motor Company


Kia Motor Company


Volvo/ Renault


British Airways PLC


Newrest Group Holding SA (ISS Group)


Delta Airlines


Iberia


Air France/KLM


EasyJet Airlines Company Ltd.


Association of Car Importers in Israel


Colmobil Ltd.


El Al Airlines


Pegasus Airlines


Arkia Airlines


Wizz Air


QAS – Quality Airport Services


Silk Way West Airlines


Air Europa


Korean Airlines


WeTrip Ltd.


Trivago N.V.


Talma Shlomo Travel Solutions Ltd


Smartair Tel Aviv LTD


Hahn Air Lines


Aerolinias Argentina


Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty


Classic Air


Danya Cebus Ltd.


Dan Public Transportation Company Ltd.


Electra Ltd,.. and


Lapidot Capital Ltd.


Nahor Transport Lanes Ltd.


Afikim Advanced Transportation Services Ltd.


Vueling Airlines


Aeroméxico


Evergreen Marine Corp. (Taiwan) Ltd.


Work highlights


  • Successfully represented EasyJet in an appeal before the Supreme Court against the District Court’s judgment in favour of easyJet, which rejected a class action submitted against it in Israel.
  • Represented Turkish Airlines in a class action submitted against it regarding Turkish Airlines’ policy with respect to refunds of airport taxes.
  • Represented Hadarom Container Terminal and Til Group in the project financing of the Ashdod Seaport.

Herzog Fox & Neeman

Herzog Fox & Neeman houses a dominant aviation practice, which routinely advises Israel’s major airlines, including El Al and Arkia Israeli Airlines, on the acquisition, financing and leasing of aircraft. The team, which also represents the Israel Airports Authority, additionally packs a punch in aviation regulation. Aside from aviation, the transport department’s broad expertise extends to rail, port and road-related matters. Seasoned of counsel Alan Sacks spearheads the aviation practice and combines experience in finance, corporate and regulatory matters. Project finance specialist Mark Phillips is noted for transport-related infrastructure development.

Practice head(s):

Alan Sacks; Mark Phillips


Other key lawyers:

Ben Kanter


Key clients

MUFG Bank, Ltd,


KfW IPEX-Bank GmbH


Citibank


Rolls Royce


Standard Chartered Bank


Investec


Israel Discount Bank


Work highlights


  • Represented Ireland-based Milestone Aviation Group on the import of two Sikorsky helicopters, which will be subleased by the Israeli lessee to Israel’s Ministry of Defence.
  • Separately represented MUFG and Citibank on standstill and payment deferral agreements relating to the financing of two Boeing 787-9 aircraft.
  • Advised Standard Chartered on the lease of MSN 6200 to Israir, including registration and security.

Naschitz, Brandes, Amir & Co.

Widely recognised for its standalone transport offering, Naschitz, Brandes, Amir & Co. excels in the shipping and aviation spheres. The team is primarily active on the contentious side, where it specialises in representing leading Israeli insurance companies, transport companies and ports in an array of sophisticated disputes. Among its recent high-profile cases, department head Ilan Winder is representing UIA, Ukraine’s flag carrier, in a consumer class action concerning the right to refunds in the case of cancellations. Senior associate Merav Nur is also noted.

Practice head(s):

Ilan Winder


Other key lawyers:

Merav Nur


Key clients

Noble Energy Mediterranean


RCL Cruises


El Al Israeli Airlines


Ukraine International Airlines


Smartwings A.S.


Sea Alliance Ltd.


Private Yacht Owners


Migdal Insurance Company (Marine Department)


The Phoenix Insurance Company (Marine Department)


Harel Insurance Company (Marine Department)


Ashdod Port


Shipco Transport


Rwandair


Smartwings A.S.


Yang Ming Marine Transport Corp.


Sonigo International Shipping, Packing & Moving Ltd.


Uniko Shipping & Logistics Ltd.


Work highlights


  • Advising Royal Caribbean in a class action filed against it for approximately $46.2m.
  • Advising Noble Energy in a lawsuit filed against it worth NIS77m.
  • Advising UIA (as well as Lot Polish Airlines) in a complex class action regarding refund of airport taxes for no-show passengers and cancelled flights, with a possible exposure of €10m.

S. Friedman, Abramson & Co.

S. Friedman, Abramson & Co.‘s recently merged practice combines the top-tier shipping strength of the former S. Friedman & Co, with the robust rail and road experience of Ephraim Abramson & Co. Among the names to note, Amir Cohen-Dor is considered by many as a dean of Israel’s maritime bar; he represents ZIM Integrated Shipping Services on legal matters worldwide, including advising on co-operation agreements with other international shipping companies. The team also includes fellow shipping specialist Michael Safran and ‘smart and comprehensive‘ younger partner, Roiy Cohen.

Practice head(s):

Amir Cohen-Dor


Other key lawyers:

Michael Safran; Nira Cory; Roiy Cohen; Nitzan Nishlis


Testimonials

The senior team at S. Friedman has been very stable over the years which has allowed us to build a very strong long-term relationship. The sector expertise, knowledge of the various industry key stakeholders and dedication and commitment of the firm’s key lawyers is second to none.’

Most of my interactions with the firm relate to financing matters, handled by Michael Safran. Michael is extremely knowledgeable and very results-oriented. He is a problem solver. His knowledge of our company is extremely precious and allows for very efficient interactions.’

We value the team for its 24/7 service, and smart and creative legal solutions. Roiy Cohen is smart and comprehensive.’

Key clients

Zim Integrated Shipping Services Ltd.


Maersk Israel Ltd.


Portline HK


Terminal Investment Limited (TIL)


M. Dizengoff & Co (P&I Representatives) Ltd.


Israel Shipyards Ltd.


The Israel Chamber of Shipping


Allalouf & Co. Shipping Ltd., M. Dizengoff & Co (P&I Representatives) Ltd. and 13 additional shipping agencies


Gal Marine Ltd.


Overseas Commerce Ltd.


The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Haifa and the North


Dead Sea Works (a part of the ICL group)


MSC


Israel Railways Corporation Ltd.


Work highlights


  • Advising Zim Integrated Shipping Services on all legal aspects of its  global activities.
  • Advising Maersk in Israel on maritime law, litigation and competition law, among other matters.
  • Representing Portline HK in its activities across the globe.

Harris & Co. Maritime Law Office

Very knowledgeable in shipping and commercial law‘, Harris & Co. Maritime Law Office‘s dedication to the maritime sphere pays dividends, as it is routinely engaged by a mix of shipowners, charterers, P&I Clubs and other key industry stakeholders. While it demonstrates an orientation towards contentious work, the team also handles ship sales and purchases and ship finance transactions, among other commercial matters. Founding partner John Harris is a seasoned maritime law expert, with shipping litigation specialist, Yoav Harris, also recommended.

Practice head(s):

John Harris; Yoav Harris


Other key lawyers:

Domiana Abboud


Testimonials

A great team with knowledge about the business. Lawyers are polite and well familiar with laws and regulations.’

Yoav Harris is excellent lawyer. He understand the issues quickly and provides effective solutions. He looks into all details.’

Always available for service, very knowledgeable in shipping and commercial law.’

Our experience with this practice is more than excellent. They are highly professional and skilled colleagues and when it comes to an urgent matter, the whole team works as one no matter the complexity of the issue.’

We work very closely with Yoav Harris. He is able to assimilate and analyse large amounts of data and documents and to extract the essence and the importance of the issues very quickly and clearly.’

S. Horowitz & Co

Leveraging its leading dispute resolution offering, S. Horowitz & Co‘s lawyers are a regular fixture in significant transport disputes. The group is particularly active on behalf of companies in the aviation sector, with trophy client Ryanair DAC routinely turning to the firm for support on passenger rights and consumer protection class actions. Department co-head Hugh Kowarsky advises major airlines on a mix of contentious, regulatory and contractual issues. Dual Israel- and New York-qualified litigator, Eyal Doron, who has strong cross-border experience, also co-leads the team.

Practice head(s):

Hugh Kowarsky; Eyal Doron


Other key lawyers:

Benjamin Sheffer; Ron Libson


Testimonials

‘Good strategic advice by the team e.g. on class actions. Eyal Doron and Hugh Kowarsky are both very skilled litigators, responsive and a pleasure to work with.’

‘Highly professional team, always able to cope with high-pressure requests and deliver what is requested, both timely and precisely. They proved to be fact reacting anytime it was needed.’

‘All team members proved to be highly skilled and very reliable. Both partner and associates broadly matched expectations, while dealing with complex cases in various fields of law, which often require fast reaction, developed problem-solving attitude and capability to deliver at best at short notice.’

‘The firms lawyers are high-skilled legal professionals in aviation law.’

‘Eyal Doron, who is my main contact in the firm, impressed me with his knowledge and expertise in the field of aviation law. His strengths are rigorous legal matter management and excellent communication skills.’

Key clients

Ryanair Group: Ryanair DAC, Lauda Europe, Malta air and Ryanair Sun.


Toyota Motor Corporation


Israeli Banks: Bank Hapoalim Ltd.; Bank Leumi Ltd.


China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC)


Wizz Air


Honda Motor Company Ltd. and Groupe PSA (PSA Peugeot Citroën)


Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V.


Shapir Civil and Marine Engineering Ltd.


Laufer Aviation-GHI


SC Western Segment’s Construction L.P.


Brussels Airlines


Minrav Holdings Ltd.


British Airways


Dubai Aviation Corporation (flydubai)


Scania AB


Shikun & Binui


Derech Eretz Highways (1997) Ltd.


Aston Martin Lagonda Limited


Oron Group Holdings & Investments Ltd.


Marsh Ltd.


Tailwind Airlines


Work highlights


  • Represented Ryanair in a motion to certify a multimillion-dollar class action concerning the rights of airlines to freedom of pricing, under both European and Israeli law.
  • Representing China State Construction Engineering Corporation on the design, planning and execution of the Green Line Project, as a part of the Tel Aviv Light Railway Project.

AYR – Amar Reiter Jeanne Shochatovitch & Co

AYR – Amar Reiter Jeanne Shochatovitch & Co‘s multidisciplinary practice draws together a mix of corporate and dispute resolution lawyers, equipping it to advise transport clients on a broad range of matters. The aviation and road sectors remain key sources of mandates, while it also handles rail infrastructure projects. Yoav Caspi is the key contact on the transactional side, with managing partner, Ram Jeanne, and class action specialist, Yaron Reiter, noted for their contentious work.

Practice head(s):

Yoav Caspi; Yaron Reiter; Ram Jeanne


Other key lawyers:

Assaf Lapid


Testimonials

‘Professional team, deal makers and not deal breakers, find the perfect balance between legal protection and the commercial requirements.’

‘Assaf Lapid is an extremely professional lawyer, excellent service, always available and cooperative. Assaf is our main point of contact at AYR and we enjoy working with him, he provides us with excellent legal services, he understands our business and we are very satisfied from our cooperation.’

Key clients

Dan Public Transportation


Kavim Public Transportation LTD.


El Al Israel Airlines Ltd.


Mayer’s Group (Hertz, Kavim, Merkavim).


Kesher Rent A Car Ltd- (Hertz)


Merkavim Transportation Technologies


Auto Center Limited Partnership


Shlomo Sixt Group (includes S.Shlomo Holdings Ltd., S.Shlomo Automobile Ltd., Shlomo Transportation (2007) Ltd.)


Aero Handling Ltd.


FSM Ground Services – the operator of Tel-O-Fun


Shafir Group


Leascar


Shapir Engineering & Industries Ltd.


Danya Cebus and China Civil joint venture


Morgan Ltd.


Work highlights


  • Representing Mayer Group in a range of day-to-day commercial and corporate matters.
  • Representing El Al Israel Airlines in numerous matters, including corporate law, corporate governance and litigation proceedings.
  • Representing Kavim Public Transportation in all aspects of its activity, including tenders for operating public transportation lines, financing agreements and others.

Erdinast, Ben Nathan, Toledano & Co

Drawing on the wider firm’s corporate and hi-tech practices, Erdinast, Ben Nathan, Toledano & Co positions itself to handle a growing volume of technology-related transport matters. Most notably, corporate and M&A head, Doni Toledano, is acting alongside Viva Gayer to advise Mobileye Vision Technologies on a joint venture for the launch of a commercial self-driving, ride-hailing service in Israel. The interdisciplinary group, which has a focus on the road and rail sectors, also advises on contentious work.

Practice head(s):

Doni Toledano


Other key lawyers:

Lior Oren; Nadav Olgan; Eyal Wiesel


Testimonials

‘We like working with EBN and are directing all of our PE M&A deals to them. They are extremely professional, commercially minded, easy to work with, great negotiators, provide good value for the cost, always available, highly accessible, and, over the years, have become good friends and true partners.’

‘Lior Oren is our contact for everything related to M&A and finance. He’s very professional, quick to understand, agile, always on our side, and at the same time can voice his views and change our initial point of view. He provides a fresh perspective and has outstanding experience in cross-border deals.’

Doni Toledano is an outstanding professional, way beyond any other lawyer we have worked with. Eyal Wiesel is also great and a true rising star; he’s certainly going places and in the right route to become a great M&A lawyer.’

Key clients

Mobileye Vision Technologies Ltd.


Carasso Motors Ltd.


Egged Ta’avura


Mediterranean Car Agency


Arbe Robotics Ltd.


Tene Investment Fund


LeddarTech Inc.


Fortellix Ltd.


X-Sight Systems Ltd.


Haifa Municipality


Metropoline – Public Transport Ltd.


Afcon Electric Transportation Ltd.


Maman Cargo Terminals Ltd.


Alon Blue Square Ltd.


Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd.


Work highlights


  • Acted for Mobileye Vision Technologies on a joint venture for the launch of a commercial self-driving, ride-hailing service in Israel, with the support of the government of Israel.
  • Acted for Egged Ta’avura on the sale of Ta’avura’s entire holdings in Egged Ta’avura to Electra Group.
  • Acted for Mediterranean Car Agency in a dispute over rights to import Kia vehicles to Israel.

Goldfarb Gross Seligman & Co.

A ‘highly capable, multidisciplinary transport practice‘, Goldfarb Gross Seligman & Co.‘s sector focus is spread across several industry segments, with notable activity in the rail, aviation, maritime, and ground transport spheres. Key contacts include international trade specialist, Gill Nadel, who has strong recent experience in road-related matters, as well as corporate, finance and infrastructure head, Rami Sofer, who is noted for his record in the rail sector.

Practice head(s):

Rami Sofer; Dubi Zoltak; Tal Danon Shenhav; Esther Koren; Aaron Michaeli; Hagit Blaiberg; Zvi Bar-Nathan; Ashok Chandrasekhar; Gill Nadel


Other key lawyers:

Tal Danon Shenhav


Testimonials

‘They have a highly capable, multidisciplinary transport practice, integrating specialized expertise in multiple fields of law to provide a comprehensive legal suite covering all aspects of the legal and commercial environment in which we operate.’

‘Rami Sofer leads the team we work with at Goldfarb Seligman. He leads by example, combining an uncompromising drive for excellence and an in-depth understanding of the legal and commercial framework. He’s a smart, knowledgeable and innovative attorney with years of experience.’

Key clients

Netivei Ayalon Ltd. (Ayalon Highways)


Israel Railways Ltd.


Cross Israel Highway Ltd.


NTA Metropolitan Mass Transit System Ltd.


PJSC Aeroflot – Russian Airlines (“Aeroflot”)


El Al Israel Airlines Ltd.


Jaguar Land Rover Limited,


Ford Motor Company


Hyundai Motor Company


Kia


MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company


Egged Ta’avura Ltd.


Derech Eretz Highways (1997) Ltd.


Bird Rides, Inc.


Israel’s leading car leasing companies


Handling Public Offerings of three of Israel’s leading car leasing companies


Israel’s leading car importers


Shapir Civil and Marine Engineering Ltd.


Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI)


Shufersal Ltd.


HopOn Mobility Ltd.


REE Automotive Ltd.


GreenRoad Insights Ltd.


Cabiran (1991) Ltd.


Shasha Tours (95) Ltd.


Derech Eretz Tours,


Mercury Aviation Israel Ltd.


Tama Plastic Industry Ltd.


Eldan Cargo 2000 Ltd.


Daka Tires Ltd.


Krief Albatros Ltd.


Transworld Logistics Ltd.


International Chamber of Customs and Shipping Agents


Leschaco Ltd.


Raphael Katz & Co. Customs Clearance Ltd


Sivanit International Forwarders Ltd.


Noach Niv Customs Agents Ltd.


Changchun Railway Vehicles CO. Ltd


China Railway Construction Corporation (International) Ltd.


Egged Transportation Company Ltd.


GT Gettaxi Services (Israel) Ltd.


Generation Capital Fund


Israeli Ministry of Finance, Government Procurement Administration


Israel Railways Ltd.


Israir Airlines


Portuguese Company EFACEC


Solel Boneh Infrastructure Ltd.


State of Israel, Cross Israel Highway Ltd.


Tnufa Transportation Solutions Ltd.


Aviv AMCG Management and Consulting


Mobilion Tech Limited Partnership


Cipia Vision Ltd.


Arkin Holdings & Hanaco Growth


Systra Group


Next Gear Venture Partners L.P


Work highlights


  • Representing Ayalon Highways in transport infrastructure projects, including the ‘Rapid City’, ‘Fast Lanes’ and ‘Ofnidan’ projects.
  • Representing an Israeli business group as part of a consortium bidding for the Jerusalem Light Rail – the Blue Line.
  • Representing Aeroflot in various legal matters, including class actions.

Gornitzky & Co.

Gornitzky & Co.‘s cross-practice offering is primarily known for its work in the ground transport area. The group’s close links with Dan Public Transport (Dan) are particularly fruitful, and it supports the bus company on an array of day-to-day issues through to sizeable transactions. Kfir Yadgar manages the firm’s relationship with Dan and advises on both contentious and non-contentious matters. Yiftah Farber is also noted.

Practice head(s):

Kfir Yadgar; Yiftah Farber


Other key lawyers:

Uri Heller; Maya Dvir


Testimonials

The main characteristics of the team from Gornitzky & Co are its high professional level, high level of service and out-of-the-box legal ideas and solutions.’

Key clients

Dan Public Transportation Company Ltd. and its subsidiaries


Eviation Aircraft Ltd.


EL AL Israel Airlines Ltd.


Nahor Netivey Tahbura Ltd.


Work highlights


  • Representing Dan Public Transportation Company in the establishment and issuance of the fund, Mobilitech Capital, which will be investing in the field of Smart Mobility.
  • Advising Eviation Aircraft, an Israeli start-up company, on various matters.
  • Representing Dan Public Transportation Company (along with a China-based partner) in the pre-qualification submission for a PPP project for the ‘Nofit’ light rail line.

Leshem-Kipperman, Law Offices & Notary

One of the few experts in marine and aviation in Israel‘, Leshem-Kipperman, Law Offices & Notary houses a prominent contentious offering, which specialises in representing insurers and transport companies in insurance-related claims. The two-partner boutique also advises on commercial transactions, regulatory issues and admiralty matters. Moshe Leshem is sought after for his ‘extensive knowledge in transport laws and regulations‘, co-heading the team alongside Irit Leshem Kipperman.

Practice head(s):

Moshe Leshem; Irit Leshem Kipperman


Testimonials

‘The office is one of the few experts in marine and aviation in Israel. The office is professional and responses are swift.’

‘Moshe Leshem and Irit Leshem Kipperman stand out as responding promptly and giving accurate assessments as to the chances of a claim.’

‘Moshe Leshem has extensive knowledge in transport laws and regulations and is detailed oriented.’

‘The team is inter alia specialized in transport law. They are knowledgeable, quick to respond and hands on, particularly Moshe Leshem.

Key clients

Maman Cargo Terminals and Handling Ltd.


Ethiopian Airlines


Royal Jordanian Airlines


Georgian Airways


Clal Insurance Company Ltd.


Migdal Insurance Company Ltd.


Israel Airports Authority


Marsh Global Claims Practice


Aon Commercial Risk Solutions


M. Dizengoff P&I Representatives Ltd.


Club Mediterranee


Europe Asia Pipeline Company Ltd.


Work highlights


  • Representing Royal Jordanian Airlines in major class actions.
  • Representing Maman Cargo Terminals and Handling in air cargo disputes.
  • Representing Ethiopian Airlines in major class actions.

Meitar law offices

Meitar Law Offices‘ team handles a varied mix of regulatory, transactional and contentious matters, with an emphasis on the aviation and automotive sectors. Clients include both domestic and multinational companies, with Air Canada, AerCap and Korean Airlines among the high-profile names on its books. The department is led jointly by Alon Gellert, who sits in the regulation, corporate and securities groups, and litigator, Yankie Pfeffer, who specialises in constitutional and administrative law matters.

Practice head(s):

Alon Gellert; Yankie Pfeffer


Key clients

Shapir Civil & Marine Engineering Ltd.


Air Canada


Korean Airlines


Sichuan Airlines


ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd.


Bon Tour Ltd.


Yang Ming Marine Transport Corporation (Yang Ming)


Israeli Drones Alliance


AerCap


The Cyprus corporations of Metea Maritime Company Ltd. & Vanora Maritime Company Ltd.


Hainan Airlines


Lomar Shipping Limited


Global Knafaim Leasing Ltd (“GKL”)


Knafaim Holdings Ltd


The project company – Highway 6 – North


Alstom/Electra/Dan


Shapir Civil and Marine Engineering Ltd


Alstom, Electra, Allied Infra, Minrav


Work highlights


  • Representing Shapir Civil and Marine Engineering in the construction of the Hadarom Port Project in Ashdod.
  • Acting for the project company in the development of an extension to the cross-Israel highway project, including a new toll road with several bridges, tunnels and overpasses.
  • Acting for an international consortium bidding on a PPP tender for the development of the green and purple lines of the Tel Aviv Light Rail network.

Salomon, Lipschütz & Co.

Salomon, Lipschütz & Co.‘s practice has an emphasis on the public transport sphere, where it primarily represents bus companies on the full life cycle of matters, from government tenders through to commercial transactions and contentious proceedings. Additionally, the team is recognised for its work for Haifa Port Company, including advising on its ongoing privatisation process. Amit Gur fronts the administrative law, tenders and transportation departments and brings to bear significant experience in representing public and private bus companies.

Practice head(s):

Amit Gur


Other key lawyers:

Merav Arad-Salomon


Key clients

Haifa Port


Public transportation private companies’ forum


Nateev Express – Public Transportation Ltd. (and subsidiary Beit Shemesh Express Ltd.)


Kavim Public Transport Ltd.


Electra Afikim Ltd. (formerly Afikim)


Electra Afikim Transportation 2021 Ltd. (Formerly Egged Transportation


Metropoline Public Transport Ltd.


Public transportation operators in East Jerusalem area


Nazareth Transport & Tourism Ltd.


Dan South Transportation Ltd.


United Nazareth Bus Services


Taxis Forum


Shai-lee Taxis ltd.


7 Public Transport Companies of East Jerusalem


Work highlights


  • Acting for Haifa Port Company in several matters, including a request to restrict imports on cargo, and a class action relating to damages caused by strikes and sanctions by Haifa Port employees.
  • Advising the Forum of Private Public Transport Companies in Israel on all of its activities, including on the approval of joint ventures between forum members.
  • Advising seven public transportation operators in East Jerusalem on all aspects of their interfaces with the Ministry of Transport, including on the negotiation of public transportation operation contracts.

Shibolet & Co.

Shibolet & Co. is home to an increasingly prominent aviation group, which added a string of new clients over the past year. Most notably, Royal Air Maroc turned to the firm to support on its launch of a historical flight route between Casablanca and Tel Aviv in the wake of the Abraham Accords. The firm also houses a thriving automotive practice, which acts for major global names such as General Motors. Aviation specialist, David Sprecher, heads the aviation, transportation and tourism practice. David Magriso is noted for transport-related infrastructure projects.

Practice head(s):

David Sprecher; David Magriso


Key clients

Royal Air Maroc


General Motors


Kanfei Nesharim Aviation Ltd.


El Al Israel Airlines Ltd.


Israel Railways Ltd.


Air Seychelles


Well Vintage


Israel Ports Developments & Assets Company Ltd.


Arkia Israeli Airlines Ltd


Regourd Aviation


Chakratec Ltd.


Albar Leasing (R.Z) Ltd


Aeroflot


FlyLux Airlines


Limelight Airlines


ASL Airlines France


Work highlights


  • Advised the Knesset on aviation matters, including on the reopening of Israeli skies during the Covid-19 pandemic.
  • Acted for Royal Air Maroc on the launch of the historical Casablanca-Tel Aviv route, as part of the Abraham Accords.
  • Advised El Al on two agreements with the State of Israel and the company’s controlling shareholder to receive emergency loans, financial assistance and advance payments following the pandemic.

Gad Elbaz Law Office

Boutique firm Gad Elbaz Law Office stands out for its ‘excellent knowledge of aviation and regulatory environments‘. The one-partner practice added nine new clients over the past year, including Tamir Airways and Brook Air Special Solutions, and punches above its weight in the aviation field. Gad Elbaz counts international airlines and local and foreign aviation authorities among his clients.

Practice head(s):

Gad Elbaz


Testimonials

‘Excellent knowledge of aviation and regulatory environments. Solid legal advice with great commercial acumen.’

‘Gad Elbaz provided focused solid support in a number of complex transactions and personally goes the extra mile to ensure the clients desired outcome.’

Key clients

Tamir Airways Ltd.


Elbit Systems


Iscar, of the IMC (International Metalworking Companies) Group


Brook Air Special Solutions Ltd.


Durstwell Limited


JM 1539 Inc.


GTE Airways Israel Ltd.


Compilation of private high-net worth clients


Aviation Bridge


Avoringa Technologies


Compilation of aviation related litigation and regulatory investigations


Deputy Mayor of the Ramat Hasharon Municipality and Ramat Hasharon’s West Neighbourhood Committee


A compilation of aviation related negligence cases


Aviair LLC


Sky Aviation Services Israel Ltd.


Group led by Mr. Avi Hefetz, former head of Israel Export Institute


Yaniv Itzhaki


Aviation Comp. & Maintenance Union


Aero Club of Israel


Life Sport Aviation


FN Aviation


Work highlights


  • Advised Tamir Airways on the acquisition of three aircraft totalling $6m, among other matters.
  • Represented Brook Air Special Solutions in the winning bid for a public tender to operate, together with Israel Aircraft Industries, a fleet of helicopters to transport soldiers and senior commanders of the IDF.
  • Represented high-net-worth individuals in 11 new transactions for the acquisition of private aircraft, including one helicopter.

Gross, Orad, Schlimoff & Co.

Gross, Orad, Schlimoff & Co.‘s aviation practice is valued for fielding ‘experts in the field’. The wider firm’s top-notch insurance practice translates into a significant volume of claims-related litigation, while the team also advises aircraft owners, operators and ground-handling companies on regulatory and commercial matters. Omer Shalev and Noya Yulish are the names to note.

Practice head(s):

Omer Shalev; Noya Yulish


Testimonials

‘A great team for insurance, reinsurance and aviation.’

‘Omer Shalev is a great practitioner and a pleasure to work with.’

‘Professional, dedicated and skilled staff. Experienced partners and the greatest experts in the field.’

‘Omer Shalev has strategic vision and provides strong analysis. His advice proves to be accurate every single time. Above all, aside from the fact that he is an excellent lawyer, he is a wonderful human being.’

Key clients

EL AL Israel Airlines Ltd.


Sun D’or International Airlines Ltd.


QAS Israel Ltd.


Maman Aviation Ltd.


TAP – Air Portugal


Air Baltic


Arkia Israeli Airlines Ltd.


AMR Aviation Ltd.


Phoenix Insurance Company


Moya Tours Ltd.


Israeli Airport Authority


La Compagnie


Laufer GHI Ltd.


TUS Airways


Work highlights


  • Representing TAP Air Portugal in a class action against the airline in Israel concerning ticket refunds for flights that were cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
  • Advising new tourism agency Moya Tours on all legal aspects of the formation of the agency, including on agreements with airlines and joint ventures.
  • Representing the Israel Airport Authority in a claim filed by the receiver of a private airline concerning damages caused to an aircraft parked in Herzliya Airport.

M. Firon & Co Advocates and Notaries

Working hand-in-hand with its infrastructure practice, M. Firon & Co Advocates and Notaries‘s transport team continues to advise Superbus on its expansion plans. On the aviation side, the group has recently undertaken work for the Israel Airports Authority and the Israel Airline Pilots Association. Infrastructure specialist Tamar Firon-Smorodinsky is the key contact.

Practice head(s):

Tamar Firon-Smorodinsky; Ron Genat


Testimonials

‘They have demonstrated great legal skills, international capabilities and sophistication in negotiations. They know their way in the Israeli market, especially as to large transportation and infrastructure tenders, and navigate well between regulation boundaries, commercial needs and other legal issues.’

‘Nothing is too complicated for this team. The tender requires extremely long-term vision and adequate preparation, including consideration of finance, transportation and infrastructure aspects, as well as commercial and technical issues. This is all done by M. Firon in a manner reflecting very high standards.’

‘Tamar Firon-Smorodinsky has a reputation as an extremely professional lawyer. I was not disappointed – she proves to be an extremely sharp and has loads of experience. When she is in, people listen and it makes a difference. She works with an excellent team, and I feel we receive the best service.’

Key clients

Israel Airports Authority


Skoda


CRTG China railway tunnel group limited)


Noy Fund


SuperBus


DHL


Carmelton Group Ltd.


Ashtrom Group Ltd.


Shapir Civil and Marine


El Al Israel Airlines Ltd.


Swissport Israel


Israel Railways Company


Israel Air Line Pilots Association


Shlomo Transportation Group


Skoda


Work highlights


  • Advised Israel Airports Authority on its NIS1bn issuance of Series A debentures.
  • Advised Israel Airline Pilots Association on aviation law and regulation.
  • Advised SuperBus on various matters.

Zemah Schneider & Partners

Specialising in the automotive sector, Zemah Schneider & Partners enjoys close relationships with an extensive roster of Israeli car importers, including the Israeli Vehicle Importer’s Association. Firm co-founder Ehood Schneider heads the department and has an emphasis on advising automotive clients on various regulatory and consumer protection law matters.

Practice head(s):

Ehood Schneider


Other key lawyers:

Sigalit Ben Sasson


Testimonials

A great team with many years of experience in the transportation and automotive business. They represent most of the Israeli car importers, and the Israeli Vehicle Importer’s Association, so they are true professionals.’

‘The team I work with (Ehood Schneider and Sigalit Ben Sasson) are very knowledgeable and professional in their respective fields. Helpful and available and have an excellent command of the English language.’

‘Zemah Schneider & Partners, works with you and for you; they understand and clarify the legal implications of varying business opportunities and situations, break down the legal and business exposures and provide bottom-line recommendations for courses of action.’

Key clients

Automotive Equipment (AEV) group


Union Motors Limited


Geo Mobility Ltd.


Union Industrial Vehicle Ltd


EVEDGE Ltd


Lex Motors Ltd.


Champion Motors Ltd


Shlomo Motors Ltd.


The Israeli Vehicle Importers Association


Nissan Motor Co., Ltd


REE Automotive Ltd.


Metro Motor Marketing (1981) Ltd


Carasso Motors Ltd


Colmobil Ltd.


Emcol Ltd


Auto Chen Ltd.


The Two-wheel Association at the Israeli Chambers of Commerce


B-EV Motors Ltd.


Hamaagar B.N.C. Ltd.


T.U.B. Advanced Transportation Ltd.


Auto Deal – Car Sales 1997 Ltd.


Work highlights


  • Advised B-EV Motors on the negotiation and drafting of a distribution agreement with a new vehicle manufacturer.
  • Advised Hamaagar BNC, Ltd on the daily operation and marketing of motor vehicles.
  • Advised Carasso Motors on the negotiation and drafting of a distribution agreement with Chery.