‘A reference firm in the field of aviation’, Machado Meyer Sendacz e Opice Advogados has strong transactional and corporate law capabilities, and has played a prominent role in the restructuring of major airlines and their subsidiaries. In addition to major local airlines, the team’s client base also features other companies which are involved in the aviation sector, such as e-commerce clients, banks, and other investors. Regulatory issues involving drones are a key area of growth for the practice, which has been increasingly advising clients on operating drones and ensuring they are compliant with Brazilian law. Fabio Falkenburger, who specialises in aircraft purchases and sales, as well as leasing and financing matters, oversees the department. ‘Promising associate’ Vitor Barbosa is well versed in the financing, leasing and sale of aircraft, and airport franchise matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
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Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Fabio Falkenburger and Vitor Barbosa are experienced aviation leasing and financing counsel who deliver timely results, anticipate potential roadblocks to closing, and provide clear communication to clients with respect to local law issues and legal/commercial risks.’
‘Fabio Falkenburger and Vitor Barbosa work tirelessly to close transactions. They truly go above and beyond for clients to ensure successful closing of aviation transactions.’
‘This is one of just a few large Brazilian firms with an active aircraft finance practice.’
‘Fabio Falkenburger is an experienced commercially minded lawyer who is easy to work with. Victor Barbosa is a promising associate who is also a pleasure to work with.'
‘It is a reference firm in the field of aviation, both partners and lawyers have expertise in the subject both nationally and internationally.’
‘Fabio Falkenburger is a master in the legal field of executive aviation and gives us complete comfort in his opinions that we are in compliance with the rules and laws relating to the secto. Always with clear opinions and a lot of dedication to serving his clients.’
‘Machado Meyer, in my opinion, has the best aviation and infrastructure legal team in the country.’
‘Fabio Falkenburger and Vitor Barbosa are two of the best aviation lawyers in the country, with in-depth knowledge of the sector. They combine technical rigour with simplicity and efficiency.'
Key clients
- Aercap
- High Ridge Aviation
- Abelo Aviation
- JPMorgan
- TAM Linhas Aéreas
- Vale
- Mercado Livre
- Braspress Air Cargo
- ATR
- Avion Express
Work highlights
- Assisting Azorra with restructuring Azul's obligations including the permanent elimination of lease payment obligations that had previously been deferred during the COVID-19 pandemic and other matters.
- Assisting Falko Regional Aircraft with restructuring Azul's obligations including the permanent elimination of lease payment obligations that had previously been deferred during the Covid-19 pandemic and other matters.
- Assisting Avolon Aerospace with restructuring Azul's obligations including the permanent elimination of lease payment obligations that had previously been deferred during the Covid-19 pandemic and other matters.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Vitor Barbosa
Practice head
Fabio Falkenburger
Other key lawyers
Vitor Barbosa