Hall Of Fame

Next Generation Partners

Rising Stars

Firms To Watch: Transport

Insurance specialist Gilad Berman Law Office acts for a growing mix of insurers, reinsurers, cargo owners, and shipowners on shipping-related work, while it also handles aviation and inland transportation matters.
Belgium-headquartered international trade firm Grisay Lawyers and Consultants recently launched an office in Israel and hired transport specialist David Sprecher — formerly at Shibolet & Co. — to head the aviation, transportation, and tourism practice.

Transport in Israel

FISCHER (FBC & Co.)

The transport group at FISCHER (FBC & Co.) scores highly with sources for its ‘profound understanding of the fields of tourism and aviation’. On the aviation front, the team acts for an impressive roster of major airlines, including American Airlines, British Airways and Delta Airlines, with its activities encompassing the full range of regulatory, contentious and transactional matters. The maritime and automotive industries are also significant sources of work. Highly regarded expert Shirly Kazir spearheads both the aviation and maritime, and the hotels and tourism departments. Newly promoted partner Amir Varon also specialises in transport.

Practice head(s):

Shirly Kazir


Other key lawyers:

Yoram Bonen; Gilad Winkler; Amir Varon; Lior Linhard


Testimonials

‘Shirly Kazir, together with her team, have demonstrated a high level of professionalism, dedication to their clients and interests, sharpness, profound understanding of the fields of tourism and aviation and its major players, solid legal expertise and unique knowledge in all relevant aspects of this.’

‘Shirly Kazir stands out 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. Shirly appears to go above and beyond to ensure a successful outcome for clients.’

‘The team is available 24/7 and has a wide level of knowledge of all relevant legislations. Team has a proactive approach and updates about relevant developments in the market place that may impact the airline industry. Team is pleasant, accommodating and professional.’

‘Shirly Kazir is approachable at all times, with excellent negotiation skills. She does her utmost to bring the best solution to cases. Kazir is clever and possesses wide knowledge on market place in general and tourism/aviation in particular. Open mind for new ideas and a solution-finder.’

‘The team has cutting-edge knowledge and understanding of the relevant legislations. Is able to provide a comprehensive overview based on in-depth research and current precedents in court. Quick, resilient and effective.’

‘Lawyers are able to process volumes of expert data with court rulings and provide a realistic solution in a short time.’

‘FBC is a key business partner for us in Israel. Not only on litigation, but also for legal advisory services. I admire Shirly Kazir for her clear advice, excellent management of disputes and efficient and impactful legal service delivery.’

‘We value lawyers for their great knowledge. It is a highly dedicated and hard-working team, due to the leadership of Shirly Kazir. We would also like to mention Amir Varon, whose role was extremely important when we were faced with class action cases.’

Key clients

Lot Polish Airlines


American Airlines


Icelandair


Eastern Airlines


Gulf Air


Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings


British Airways PLC


Holman Fenwick Willan (HFW)


Turkish Airlines


EasyJet Airlines Company


Delta Airlines


Iberia Líneas Aéreas de España


Air France/KLM


Kennedys Law LLP


Arbel Finance


Emirates


Etihad Airways


Fly Dubai


COMSA SSA


Transavia Airlines C.V


Onur Air


Virgin Atlantic


Colmobil


Hahn Airlines


Aerolinas Argentina


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


Finnair


Zhejiang Cainiao Supply Chain Management Co. (Alibaba Group)


China Railway Construction Corporation (International) (CRCCI)


TiL Group


Hadarom Container Terminal


Pegasus Airlines


Arkia Airlines


Wizz Air


QAS – Quality Airport Services


Silk Way West Airlines


Hyundai Motor Company


Kia Motor Company


Schaeffler Israel


Air Europa


Korean Airlines


WeTrip


Trivago


Volvo Lastvagnar


Renault Trucks


DHL (Israel)


Yamaha Motor Europe


Association of Car Importers in Israel


Talma Shlomo Travel Solutions


Smartair Tel Aviv


Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty


Classic Air


Vueling Airlines


Aeroméxico


Evergreen Marine Corp. (Taiwan)


Imperium Jets


Hotels.com


Unitag


Jas Forwarding


Dan Public Transportation Company


Danya Cebus


Allied Infrastructure


Danya Cebus


Quadro National Infrastructures


Afikim Advanced Transport Services


Work highlights


  • Successfully represented Wizz Air and Austrian Airlines in class actions submitted (separately) against each of the airlines regarding refunds of airport taxes.
  • Represented Turkish Airlines in a cross-border class action against the airline’s policy of non-endorsement of flight tickets.
  • Advised a consortium in a bid for the design, construction, operation, and financing of the Blue Line of the Jerusalem Light Rail Transit Network, valued at NIS10.7bn.

Herzog Fox & Neeman

Over the past year, Herzog Fox & Neeman handled a significant volume of financing transactions in the transport field, including representing lenders on aircraft financings. The group also acts for airlines, with its recent work spanning local incorporations and leasing arrangements. among other matters. Experienced of counsel Alan Sacks and finance partner Ben Kanter are the key contacts for aviation work, including financing, transfers and registrations. Project finance co-head Mark Phillips is noted for his experience in the road and rail sectors.

Practice head(s):

Mark Phillips


Other key lawyers:

Alan Sacks; Ben Kanter


Testimonials

‘I use the team for advice regarding aircraft financing in Israel. The team is knowledgeable, and very responsive. They are invariably helpful.’

‘I principally work with Ben Kanter. I worked previously with Alain Sacks. Both are excellent.’

Key clients

MUFG Bank


KfW IPEX-Bank


Citibank


Rolls Royce


Standard Chartered Bank


Investec


Israel Discount Bank


Caryle Aviation


Aviation Capital Group


Avolon


Work highlights


  • Advising a lender in connection with financing and registration of Boeing Dreamliner aircraft being acquired by El Al Israel Airlines.
  • Advising a consortium of senior lenders, led by Mizrahi Tefahot Bank and Phoenix, on the financing of the new fast lanes to be constructed and operated on the main roads leading into the Tel Aviv area.
  • Advising Shikun & Binui and Egged on the BOT tender for the Haifa–Nazareth Light Rail project.

Naschitz, Brandes, Amir & Co.

With an orientation towards regulatory and contentious work, Naschitz, Brandes, Amir & Co.’s thriving transport practice is dominant in both the shipping and aviation spheres. In terms of the former, the group enjoys close links with major insurance companies, as well as ports, shipping companies and energy companies. On the aviation front, the group is primarily active on behalf of insurers and airlines. Department head Ilan Winder splits his practice between aviation and shipping matters. Associate Merav Nur is also noted for her focus on transport law.

Practice head(s):

Ilan Winder


Other key lawyers:

Merav Nur


Testimonials

‘The team provides straightforward advice. Lawyers act on time, respond when needed and provide the best legal services.’

‘I don’t work with a certain person only but with many lawyers, and all members maintain the best service levels.’

Key clients

Migdal Insurance Company


The Phoenix Insurance Company


Harel Insurance Company


Ashdod Port


Noble Energy Mediterranean


Chevron Mediterranean


El Al Israeli Airlines


LOT Polish Airlines


AXA Versicherung AG Colonia


Uniko Shipping & Logistics


Pantaenius Yacht Insurance


Sonigo International Shipping, Packing & Moving


Lucy Borchard Shipping Israel Scandinavian Maritime Agency and Tiran Shipping


Harel Insurance and its insurer Tokio Marine


Shapir Civil and Marine Engineering


Iveco S.P.A.


Israel Canada Highways Management


El-Mor Electric Installation & Services (1986)


Leditech


Shipco Transport


Sea Alliance


Ukraine International Airlines


Rwandair


Dan Public Transportation


National Union Fire Insurance company of Pittsburgh, PA (AIG USA)


Yang Ming Marine Transport Corp.


Lonham Group UK


Pantavis


Amnon Mesilot


IBI Group Inc.


Construcciones Y Auxiliar De Ferrocarriles


Caf Investment Projects


Shapir Civil and Marine Engineering


Noy 3 Infrastructure And Energy Investments


Work highlights


  • Advising Noble Energy on its maritime law affairs and providing specific advice on regulatory issues regarding the company’s offshore and onshore operations.
  • Advising an array of local and international insurance companies in connection with damage caused to possessions during air and sea transportation.
  • Advising IBI-Arcadis Group on its participation in the project for the design and implementation of mass transit systems in the Tel Aviv metropolitan area (LRV Red Line Project).

S. Friedman, Abramson & Co.

Transport powerhouse S. Friedman, Abramson & Co. is primarily recognised for its ‘extensive experience and knowledge of shipping’, where it acts for leading domestic and multinational shipping companies on an array of regulatory, contentious and transactional matters. Alongside its destination maritime practice, the group also advises on rail and road-related matters. Senior shipping expert Amir Cohen-Dor is distinguished by his ‘vast experience in the field of transportation’. The group also includes Roiy Cohen, who specialises in representing shipping companies in commercial negotiations, dispute resolution and risk management; and Michael Safran, who is highly regarded for shipping transactions.

Practice head(s):

Amir Cohen-Dor


Other key lawyers:

Michael Safran; Nira Cory; Roiy Cohen; Aviva Zigmond; Nitzan Nishlis


Testimonials

‘The team has been working with our company for years and have built up great knowledge and expertise in the company’s day-to-day operations, as well as the legal matters in hand. ’

‘The team is extremely professional, with great knowledge and experience, great dedication and availability.’

‘The team is highly professional, which gives me a sense of confidence in their inputs and advice. In addition, they are available to my requests and pleasant to work with.’

‘Amir Cohen-Dor is highly professional, well-informed in market developments and has vast experience in the field of transportation. He is always open to hear and discuss new ideas and initiatives and employs a “can do” approach to every new request.’

‘The team has extensive experience and knowledge of shipping and international trade matters. Very familiar with LMAA arbitration. Roiy Cohen is an excellent lawyer. Very client friendly, extremely easy to work with and very knowledgeable.’

‘Aviva Zigmond, is my main contact on competition-related work for shipping companies and is top of the tree. I also have worked with litigators Amir Cohen-Dor and Nira Cory, who I would be happy to work with again.’

Key clients

Zim Integrated Shipping Services


The Israel Chamber of Shipping


M. Dizengoff & Co (P&I Representatives)


Israel Shipyards


Israel Electric Corporation


National Coal Supply Corporation


Maersk Israel


The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Haifa and the North


Dead Sea Works (part of the ICL group)


Israel Railways


Ayalon Highways Co


NTA Metropolitan Mass Transit System


Israel Scandinavian Maritime Agency


Work highlights


  • Advising Zim Integrated Shipping Services on long-term charter agreements (with purchase options) for over 20 new eco-friendly vessels, with a total value of over $1.5bn.
  • Drafting the Israeli Shipping Agents Registration Bill on behalf of the Israeli Chamber of Shipping.
  • Advising the National Coal Supply Corporation on the $50.5m sale of a vessel co-owned with a Belgian partner.

Harris & Co. Maritime Law Office

Despite its compact size, shipping boutique Harris & Co. Maritime Law Office punches above its weight to represent a wide range of shipowners, charterers, agents, P&L Clubs and others in shipping transactions and litigation. The specialist group is also a popular choice to advise international law firms on Israeli law-related maritime matters. Managing partner Yoav Harris is held up by sources as a ‘partner specialised in transport and maritime law’.

Practice head(s):

Yoav Harris


Testimonials

‘A very professional, pleasant and respectful team. The partner stands out for his personal attitude, high availability and quick, professional and thorough answers.’

‘A very devoted and young team mixed with staff rich with experience. A great combination!’

‘Yoav Harris is a partner specialised in transport and maritime law. He is a quick thinker and very professional.’

S. Horowitz & Co

S. Horowitz & Co’s top-tier dispute resolution offering comes to the fore in its transport work, with the team a popular choice to handle industry-shaping litigation, including class actions. The group, which has an emphasis on the aviation sector, also handles transactional and regulatory work. Of counsel Hugh Kowarsky contributes significant regulatory expertise and co-chairs the practice together with Eyal Doron, who demonstrates ‘deep technical knowledge’. Associate Ron Libson provides support.

Practice head(s):

Hugh Kowarsky; Eyal Doron


Other key lawyers:

Ron Libson


Testimonials

‘S. Horowitz fields excellent professional staff and it also possesses extensive experience in the airline industry; it has the strengths and key capabilities required to help us run a corporate company smoothly.’

‘Eyal Doron has excellent communication skills, He is very proactive and has lots of patience. His experience in the airline industry is at par excellence.’

‘The team has excellent understanding of the business context, and gathers in-depth information/knowledge where the need arises, to adequately counsel in specific matters where no previous knowledge exists.’

‘Both Eyal Doron and Ron Libson have quick perception as well as strength in focusing on relevant points. This means they can leave certain things aside while ensuring in-depth understanding of complex matters, if need be, to advise adequately in any transport-related matter.’

‘The team demonstrates deep technical knowledge and experience, especially Eyal Doron.’

Key clients

Ryanair DAC


Lufthansa Group (including, inter alia, Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines, Lufthansa Cargo, Brussels Airlines)


Swiss Airlines


Wizz Air


Ashdod and Haifa Ports


British Airways


Electra Afikim


Stellantis


Honda Motor Co


Toyota Motor Corporation


China State Engineering Construction Corporation


Work highlights


  • Represented Ryanair in a motion to certify a multimillion-dollar class action involving alleged non-refund of passenger taxes and fees for international flights.
  • Represented Swiss International Air Lines in a motion to certify a class action alleging contract violations, unjust enrichment, and torts related to Swiss’ out-of-sequence policy for passengers who are no-show for flight segments.
  • Represented Deutsche Lufthansa in a motion to certify a class action alleging spam mail violations under the Telecommunications Law, by Lufthansa.

AYR – Amar Reiter Jeanne Shochatovitch & Co

AYR – Amar Reiter Jeanne Shochatovitch & Co’s cross-practice transport offering draws on the experience of a broad pool of corporate lawyers and litigators. The team has been particularly busy in the automotive sector of late, where it has represented companies such as Albar Car Fleet (RZ), Auto Center and Leascar Ram in contentious matters. Key contacts include corporate head Yoav CaspiRam Jeanne, who leads the dispute resolution department; and class actions specialist Yaron Reiter.

Practice head(s):

Yoav Caspi; Yaron Reiter; Ram Jeanne


Other key lawyers:

Assaf Lapid


Key clients

Dan Public Transportation


Kavim Public Transportation


El Al Israel Airlines


Mayer’s Group (Hertz, Kavim, Merkavim)


Kesher Rent A Car (Hertz)


Merkavim Transportation Technologies


Auto Center Limited Partnership


Shlomo Sixt Group


Aero Handling


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


Shapir Group


Leascar


Shapir Engineering & Industries


Kfir – Light Rail Jerusalem


Morgan


Work highlights


  • Representing Albar Car Fleet (RZ) in an application to certify a class action, alleging that Albar and others used deceptive documents for importing and selling or leasing cars.
  • Representing Kfir (a joint venture of Shapir Engineering and Industries and CAF), which won a tender for the operation of the red line of the light rail in Jerusalem.

Erdinast, Ben Nathan, Toledano & Co

According to satisfied clients, Erdinast, Ben Nathan, Toledano & Coknows how to find solutions and be creative’. Distinguished by its transactional prowess, the group specialises in work intersecting the transport and technology spheres, including autonomous vehicles and drones. Finance and M&A head Doni Toledano is the key contact in a multidisciplinary team that also includes Lior Oren, who has a focus on tech-driven transactions.

Practice head(s):

Doni Toledano


Other key lawyers:

Lior Oren; Eyal Wiesel


Testimonials

‘We enjoy working with EBN. Lawyers provide very good service, are fun to work with, always answer the phone and emails, are quick to respond and revert, know our business well and do not try to make it difficult for the other party when not necessary. It knows how to find solutions and be creative.’

‘Lior Oren is the EBN member who coordinates our contact with the firm. He is very senior, but handles certain corporate issues and M&A aspects himself, and manages our legal needs firm-wide. Lior is an outstanding and very experienced lawyer, and it’s a pleasure to work with him and the team.’

‘A very professional team. Lawyers are nice and available.’

Key clients

Mobileye Vision Technologies


Carasso Motors


Egged Ta’avura


Mediterranean Car Agency


Arbe Robotics


Tene Investment Fund


LeddarTech


Foretellix


X-Sight Systems


Questar Auto Technologies (Previously Traffilog)


Haifa Municipality


Metropoline – Public Transport


Afcon Electric Transportation


Maman Cargo Terminals


Alon Blue Square


Israel Aerospace Industries


Bank Hapoalim


Egged Shareholders Representative Services


Work highlights


  • Advising Egged Shareholders Representative Services on the sale of a majority stake in Egged to Keystone Fund.
  • Advising Foretellix on its Series Round C financing led by 83North.
  • Advising Carasso Motors on the acquisition of 100% of the share capital of CMD Engineering Equipment Supplies Co.

Goldfarb Gross Seligman & Co.

Goldfarb Gross Seligman & Co.’s transport work straddles many practice areas, primarily drawing on lawyers from the infrastructure, corporate, international trade, finance and administrative law departments. Acting across the road, rail, aviation and shipping spheres, the team demonstrates a notable focus on infrastructure and class actions. Key contacts include Gill Nadel, who specialises in import, export and international trade matters; Rami Sofer, who heads the corporate, finance and infrastructure team; and administrative law partner Tal Danon Shenhav.

Practice head(s):

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


Key clients

Egged Transportation Company


Israeli Ministry of Finance, Government Procurement Administration


Netivei Ayalon (Ayalon Highways)


Gett


Israel Railways


Cross Israel Highway


NTA Metropolitan Mass Transit System


Changchun Railway Vehicles Co.


Adani Group


China Railway Construction Corporation (International)


Generation Capital Fund


PJSC Aeroflot – Russian Airlines


Israir Airlines


Efacec


El Al Israel Airlines


Jaguar Land Rover


Ford Motor Company


Hyundai Motor Company


Kia


MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company


Egged Ta’avura


Derech Eretz Highways (1997)


Bird Rides


Car leasing companies: Carasso Motors; Pacific Vehicle And Transportation; S. Shlomo Vehicle


Public Offerings for three car leasing companies: Eldan Transportation; Albar Mimunit Services; S. Shlomo Holdings


Car importers: David Lubinskil; Colmobil| Group; Mayer’s Cars and Trucksl Mediterranean Car Agency; Delek Motors; Max Trucks and Buses; Avnir Car Company; The Shlomo Group; Champion Motors


Arkin Holdings & Hanaco Growth


Systra Group,


SENER Group


TYPSA Group


Massad Oz Management & Engineering


iSTERN Civil Engineering Projects Management


Shapir Civil and Marine Engineering


Israel Aerospace Industries


Shufersal


REE Automotive


Next Gear Venture Partners LP


GES Global Environmental Solutions


Shasha Tours (95)


Derech Eretz Tours


Mercury Aviation Israel


Solel Boneh Infrastructure


Tnufa Transportation Solutions


Aviv AMCG Management and Consulting


Tama Plastic Industry


Eldan Cargo 2000


Krief Albatros


Transworld Logistics


International Chamber of Customs and Shipping Agents


Leschaco


Raphael Katz & Co. Customs Clearance


Sivanit International Forwarders


Playtika


Noach Niv Customs Agents


Mobilion Tech Limited Partnership


Cipia Vision


Work highlights


  • Representing both sides (Adani Group and Gadot Chemicals on one side, and the Israel Government Companies Authority on the other) in the NIS4bin privatisation of the Haifa Port.
  • Acting as Israel legal counsel to PJSC Aeroflot – Russian Airlines on various matters, including litigation proceedings.
  • Representing the Israeli Association of General Aviation in petitions to the High Court of Justice seeking to allow the continued use of the airport in Herzliya.

Gornitzky & Co.

Gornitzky & Co.’s transport practice benefits from the firm’s close relationship with Dan Public Transportation and it provides ongoing advice to the bus company on day-to-day matters, project tenders and corporate transactions. The team also has a presence in tech-driven transport work, where it acts for start-ups and funds. Managing partner Kfir Yadgar handles a mix of contentious and corporate work and oversees the group together with transactional partner Yiftah Farber.

Practice head(s):

Kfir Yadgar; Yiftah Farber


Testimonials

‘Gornitzky’s uniqueness lies in its all-encompassing legal expertise, efficient responsiveness, and client-centric approach. Potential clients would appreciate its broad range of legal competencies, covering corporate law, litigation, and more, ensuring comprehensive solutions from a single source.’

‘Individuals at Gornitzky stand out for their unparalleled in-depth knowledge of our company. This knowledge enables them to provide tailored, strategic legal guidance that directly addresses our unique needs and challenges.’

‘Very professional with great results. We value our close relationship with the partners.’

Key clients

Dan Public Transportation Company


Eviation Aircraft


Nahor Transportation Routes


Samelet Motors


Keystone  Fund


Mobili Shamroch


Mobili Shamroch


Mobileye Vision Technologies


Electra Ltd.


Neuron Entrepreneurship


Bank Hapoalim B.M.


Ford Motor Company


Israel Railways Corporation


United Tours


Hamovil Jack Yulzari Ramla


Work highlights


  • Represented Dan Public Transportation Company (as a shareholder in TMT–TLV Metropolitan Tramway) on its successful bid for the Tel Aviv Green Line light rail Project.
  • Advised Israeli start-up, Eviation Aircraft, on various matters.
  • Advised Dan Transportation and Samelet Motors on establishing Mobilitech Capital, a fund promoting investments in early-stage tech projects in public transportation.

Gross, Orad, Schlimoff & Co.

Gross, Orad, Schlimoff & Co. houses a robust aviation practice that routinely acts for major airlines, aircraft owners and ground-handling companies, among other industry clients, in regulatory and commercial matters. The group additionally leverages the firm’s dominant insurance offering to pack a punch in claims-related disputes. Omer Shalev, who is a former general counsel for EL AL, co-heads the practice alongside Noya Yulish.

Practice head(s):

Omer Shalev; Noya Yulish


Testimonials

‘An exceptional team, which is very professional in aviation law.’

‘Omer Shalev has vast experience and provides the best service in aviation and tourism law, using his knowledge as former general counsel of an airline.’

‘Omer Shalev is fantastic!’

Key clients

EL AL Israel Airlines


Sun D’or International Airlines


QAS Israel


Maman Aviation


TAP – Air Portugal


Air Baltic


Arkia Israeli Airlines


AMR Aviation


Phoenix Insurance Company


Moya Tours


Israeli Airport Authority


La Compagnie


Laufer GHI


TUS Airways


GNS Aviation


GNS Helicopters


Level Up


Safomar


Marsh Insurance Brokers


Work highlights


  • Representing TAP Air Portugal in a class action filed against the airline in Israel concerning ticket refunds for flights that were cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
  • Advising Moya Tours on various matters, including on the formation of the agency, the registration of the company, agreements with airlines, and ticketing agreements.
  • Representing Level Up Limited and Level Up Leasing in a claim filed against TAR Ideal Services and Avnon Group in connection with a lease agreement for helicopters in Ivory Coast.

Leshem-Kipperman, Law Offices & Notary

Transport and insurance boutique Leshem-Kipperman, Law Offices & Notary impresses with its ability to leverage ‘decades of experience’. The group specialises in advising shipping and aviation companies on regulatory, contentious and commercial matters, including representation before various branches of the Israeli Government such as the Ministry of Transport. The team also acts for insurers in transport-related litigation. Name partners Moshe Leshem and Irit Leshem Kipperman co-head the practice.

Practice head(s):

Moshe Leshem; Irit Leshem Kipperman


Testimonials

‘The law firm provides a unique service as a result of decades of experience, combined with speedy, but calculated, performance and professionalism.’

‘Both Moshe Leshem and Irit Leshem Kipperman provide a service that stems from their life-long work.’

 

Key clients

Maman Cargo Terminals and Handling


Ethiopian Airlines


Royal Jordanian Airlines


Georgian Airways


Clal Insurance Company


Migdal Insurance Company


Israel Airports Authority


Marsh Global Claims Practice


Aon Commercial Risk Solutions


M. Dizengoff P&I Representatives


Club Mediterranee


Europe Asia Pipeline Company


Harpaz P&I


Work highlights


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

Meitar law offices

Meitar Law Offices’ transport focus encompasses a wide range of aviation, rail and road matters. Underpinned by its experience in infrastructure projects and public tenders, the multidisciplinary group also handles regulatory issues, dispute resolution, and corporate and finance transactions. Among the partners active in this sector are Alon Gellert, who specialises in corporate, securities and regulatory work; and administrative law litigator Yankie Pfeffer.

Practice head(s):

Alon Gellert; Yankie Pfeffer


Key clients

Volkswagen Group


AerCap


Korean Airlines


Global Knafaim Leasing


Knafaim Holdings


The project company – Highway 6 – North


Alstom/Electra/Dan


Dan Public Transporation


The Public Transportation Company Union of Israel


Port of Haifa


Kavim Public Transport


Tnufa Public Transportation


Challenge Airlines IL (CAL)


TESLA


Yutong Hongkong Limited and the Yutong Group


Israeli Drones Alliance


Work highlights


  • Advising Alstom, Electra and Dan Public Transportation on various matters relating to numerous public transport projects.
  • Representing Dan Public Transportation in negotiations with the Israeli government, resulting in a comprehensive agreement lasting until 2030, covering payment rates and generated revenue from operated lines.
  • Representing the Public Transportation Company Union of Israel (PTCU) in ongoing Knesset discussions and in the submission of a petition to the Supreme Court.

Salomon, Lipschütz & Co.

Exhibiting niche expertise in the public transport sector, Salomon, Lipschütz & Co. is positioning itself as a key adviser to bus companies in Israel, including Nateev Express Group, Kavim and Metropoline. The group is equipped to act on the full suite of legal matters, with its recent experience covering administrative law, litigation and commercial work, among other areas. Key name Amit Gur heads the administrative law, tenders and transportation departments.

Practice head(s):

Amit Gur


Other key lawyers:

Merav Arad Salomon


Testimonials

‘Salomon, Lipschütz possesses extensive expertise in the transport sector. It is well-acquainted with prominent individuals holding specific roles in the government’s transport department. Additionally, it is well-versed in the legal landscape and understands the dynamics of transport economics in Israel.’

‘The individuals I collaborate with at the law firm are truly exceptional in their approach. What sets them apart from others in the industry is their genuine and down-to-earth demeanour, making them not only great professionals but also pleasant individuals to converse with.’

Key clients

Haifa Port


The Forum of Private Public Transport Companies


Nateev Express Group


Cable Express, of the Nateev Express Group


Beit Shemesh Express, of the Nateev Express Group


Kavim


Electra Afikim Group (including Elctra Afikim Transportation 2021)


Metropoline


Union of Public Transportation Operators in East Jerusalem (Jerusalem Ramallah Bus Company, A. Tur Anata Buses, Center Buses, Mount Olives Bus Company, Shufat Bus Company, Esawya Shu’fat Buses, and South Buses Company)


Dan in the South, of the Dan Group


Cfir Light Rail


Superbus


Shiran Tours


Nazareth Transport & Tourism, of the Afifi Group


United Nazareth Bus Services, of the Afifi Group


Galeem Narkis Gal Transportation


Work highlights


  • Represented Haifa Port in its NIS4.1bn privatisation and also in its NIS117m claim against Ashdod Port.
  • Advised the Forum of Private Public Transport Companies on various regulatory matters vis-à-vis the Ministry of Transport, including administrative petitions .
  • Successful represented the Forum of Private Public Transport Companies in a petition against the State’s Comptroller and Ombudsman against its decision declaring all public transportation companies in Israel as ‘supervised bodies’, subject to State audit by the Ombudsman’s office.

Zemah Schneider & Partners

An increasingly dominant player in the automotive sphere, Zemah Schneider & Partners maintains a thriving transport practice that is sought after by Israeli car importers, including the Israeli Vehicle Importer’s Association. The team has a focus on regulatory matters, with an emphasis on the import, marketing and service of motor vehicles, but it also handles commercial and contentious work. Department head Ehood Schneider stands out for his ‘in-depth knowledge of the regulatory environment’.

Practice head(s):

Ehood Schneider


Other key lawyers:

Sigalit Ben Sasson


Testimonials

‘The field of transportation includes, beyond knowledge of the profession, also familiarity with the regulator. The firm has exceptional knowledge and professionalism in the field, in light of the fact it represents the Association of Automobile Importers in Israel and participated in accompanying legislative procedures.’

‘I highlight Sigalit Ben Sasson and Ehood Schneider, Both have many years of experience in the field, including in regulation as well as managing negotiations and handling distribution and franchise agreements.’

‘A very professional group, with fast response times.’

Key clients

Automotive Equipment (AEV) group


Union Motors


Geo Mobility


Union Industrial Vehicle


EV-Edge


Lex Motors


Champion Motors


Shlomo Motors


The Israeli Vehicle Importers Association


Nissan Motor Co.


REE Automotive


Metro Motor Marketing (1981)


Carasso Motors


Colmobil


Emcol


Auto Chen


B-EV Motors


Hamaagar B.N.C.


T.U.B. Advanced Transportation


Auto Deal – Car Sales 1997


Dalhom Motors


Pery Yeruham Automotive Company


Kidmah Forklift Rental


City Transformer


Work highlights


  • Advised Carasso Motors on the negotiation and drafting of a distribution agreement with Xiaopeng Motors and with premium sports brand, Alpine, from the Renault-Nissan group.
  • Advised Geo Mobility on the negotiation and drafting of a distribution agreement with Zeekr.
  • Advised EV-Edge on various matters, including on engagements with charging station manufacturers and importers, electric vehicle distributors, municipalities, and public transport operators, among others.

Gad Elbaz Law Office

Micro-boutique Gad Elbaz Law Office is distinguished by its exclusive focus on the aviation sector. The one-partner group is equipped to advise on regulatory, contentious and smaller transactional matters for a mix of private airlines, helicopter companies and high-net-worth individuals, among other clients. Gad Elbaz, who serves as  co-chair of the Israeli Bar Association Aviation Committee, is highly regarded for his specialist industry expertise.

Practice head(s):

Gad Elbaz


Key clients

Swiss Bar Aviation


Hagag Group and its controlling shareholder


Arzey Hanegev Initiation and Construction


Tamir Airways


Challenge Airlines Israel (formerly CAL Cargo Group)


Exclusair


Tango.me


GTE Airways Israel


Brook Air Special Solutions


Durstwell


Compilation of private high-net-worth clients


Aviation Bridge


Compilation of aviation-related litigation and regulatory investigations


A compilation of aviation related negligence cases


Iscar, of the IMC (International Metalworking Companies) Group


Aviair LLC


Life Sport Aviation


Elbit Systems


JM 1539


Work highlights


  • Represented Challenge Airlines Israel in enforcement proceedings initiated by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), which were successfully settled.
  • Represented Tamir Airways in aircraft acquisitions totalling $6m, and in succeeding in a petition against the CAA for its refusal to extend a waiver, which resulted in the CAA implementing new regulations regarding commercial aircraft with foreign registration.
  • Represented high-net-worth individuals in a string of transactions for the acquisition of private aircraft, including one helicopter.

M. Firon & Co Advocates and Notaries

M. Firon & Co Advocates and Notaries’s transport work is closely aligned with its infrastructure offering, with the team primarily active in representing construction groups and transport companies in project tenders and development. The group also has significant experience in the aviation and public bus spheres. Real estate, infrastructure and project finance head, Tamar Firon-Smorodinsky, steers the practice.

Practice head(s):

Tamar Firon-Smorodinsky; Ron Genat; Ilan Kremer


Testimonials

‘Its experience is spread over all aspects related to transportation projects, banking and finance, as well as projects, infrastructure and energy, which allows it to provide us with a very broad view and support. In addition, it has a strong business affiliation, and can handle tough negotiations.’

‘We work together on various infrastructure projects and construction projects, including not only the negotiations and the projects themselves but also various financing aspects. The partners we work with ensure that legal issues are identified and addressed in a proactive and strategic manner. ’

‘I work with Tamar Firon-Smorodinsky, who heads the real estate infrastructure and project finance department. She is highly skilled and deeply committed to providing personalized attention and support. She takes time to listen to our concerns, understand the goals and objectives, and develop strategies.’

‘The team has deep knowledge of the company’s contracts and business. We can always expect it to meet our schedule and give us advice or detailed answers whenever we need. The team, especially the partners, know a lot of people in our business environment, so working with them is much easier.’

‘M. Firon is a wonderful team, it works like a Swiss clock and has the same qualities. It is well-coordinated and every member knows their work. It does an excellent job in no time.

‘I am more than happy to talk about Tami Firon. We have worked on various projects in the past and she never fails me. Since I work with several international law firms, I can truly say she is one of the best partners I have met. Always straight to the point, always knows what she is doing.

Key clients

Skoda


CRTG (China Railway Tunnel Group)


Noy Fund


SuperBus


DHL


Carmelton Group


Ashtrom Group


Shapir Civil and Marine


El Al Israel Airlines


Swissport Israel


Israel Railways Company


Israel Air Line Pilots Association


Shlomo Transportation Group


Sky 360


CAF


Light TLV


Work highlights


  • Advising Light TLV, Shapir and CAF on the PFI project for the Purple Line of the light rail in Tel Aviv.
  • Advising SuperBus on various transportation tenders.
  • Advising a company involved in aviation and the development of cloud systems that offer digital solutions in the tourism industry on an agreement with Israir Airlines and Ista Tourism Company.

Shibolet & Co.

Shibolet & Co.’s transport practice is now led jointly by construction head Sharon Adler and energy and infrastructure partner David Magriso. The group is particularly weighted towards transport projects, where it acts for construction groups, transport companies and public-sector entities, but it also has significant aviation expertise. Former department co-head David Sprecher left the firm in 2022.

Practice head(s):

Sharon Adler; David Magriso


Testimonials

‘Sharon Adler excels in all his fields of practice. Technically proficient and extremely knowledgeable about the market, he is the lawyer you want by your side when doing business in Israel.’

Key clients

ARC Automotive


Hainan Airlines Holding Co


Pro Sky France


Montpellier Business School


Gullivair


Shapir Civil and Marine Engineering


Terranova Tourism Marketing & Consultancy


Aharoni Shai


Wopy


American Airlines


Cariad


Silib


GT GetTaxi Services Israel


Israel Railways


Cfir Light Rail


Mobike Technology Israel


El Al Israel Airlines


Israel Ports Developments & Assets Company


Arkia Israeli Airlines


Albar Leasing (R.Z)


General Motors


Rail Vision


Well Vintage


FlyLux Airlines


Royal Air Maroc


Fly Dubai – Dubai Aviation Corporation


Air Caraibes Atlantique


S7 Airlines


Regourd Aviation – Fly Amelia


Chakratec


ASL Airlines France


Ashdod Port Company


Menolead Herut Systems


Cobra Instalaciones y Servicios, Enclavamientos y Señalización Ferroviaria Enyse


Ayalon Highways


SEMI


YSB Group


Oron Group


Deutsche Bahn Engineering & Consulting


Danya Cebus


COMSA Unipersonal


Work highlights


  • Represented the EPC consortium (Danya Cebus, COMSA Unipersonal, Cobra Instalaciones y Servicios, and Enclavamientos y Señalización Ferroviaria Enyse) in its tender for the Haifa-Nazareth Light Rail Project.
  • Represented El Al in negotiations with the Israeli Ministry of Finance to secure Covid 19-related state aid.
  • Represented General Motors in a class action lawsuit relating to Takata airbag risks.