Stephenson Harwood has a multifaceted aviation finance practice, advising on leasings, insolvency and aircraft repossession. In addition, the firm handles cross-border sale and leasebacks, syndicated loans and post-delivery financings of shipping assets for lenders, lessors, owners and operators. Practice head Simon Wong specialises in advising financiers, lessors and airlines across the spectrum of financing and leasing transactions, including Islamic financing and tax-based leasing. Fellow practice heads Hongkai Zhou and Elton Chan focus on shipping matters, advising banks, leasing companies and shipowners. Louis Ng is an experienced member of the team acting on aircraft acquisitions, lease novation and restructurings.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Elton Chan stands out substantially. Responsive, innovative, prompt, flexible, and right to the point.’
  • ‘Simon Wong has deep knowledge of the aviation industry. He is an efficient and practical lawyer, with a keen focus on moving the transaction from beginning to completion.'
  • 'They provide professional advice immediately and offer in-depth interpretations of transaction arrangements and contract terms, helping companies make the most reasonable decisions.'
  • 'The team demonstrates exceptional capabilities in aircraft leasing, financing, and related litigation and non-litigation areas.'
  • ‘Stephenson Harwood demonstrates exceptional strength in advising on asset finance matters involving airlines undergoing restructuring or financial distress.'
  • ‘The team, led by Simon Wong, and supported by Louis Ng and Raina Xian, frequently work alongside major international banks, and have a deep understanding of the banks' needs and requirements.’

Key clients

  • ICBC Aviation Leasing
  • The Export-Import Bank of China
  • CIB Leasing

Lawyers

Leading partners: Aviation Finance

The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Leading partners: Shipping Finance

The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

Simon Wong; Hongkai Zhou; Elton Chan

Other key lawyers

Louis Ng; Raina Xian