Stephenson Harwood's aviation team is frequently involved in high-value commercial litigation, including individual claims and large class actions. It is recognised for its work with prominent airlines in disputes concerning systemic service failures, competition law issues, and regulatory matters. Following Paul Phillips’ retirement, Richard Parsons leads the practice and advises on aviation finance matters, including the acquisition, disposal, and leasing of aircraft. Johnny Champion displays ‘good legal acumen’ regarding aircraft leasing, maintenance, and redelivery disputes. Rebecca Garner, Patrick Bettle, and Chloe Challinor left the firm.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Deep industry knowledge and commercial insight, good legal advice across the full spectrum of aviation matters. Strong ability to handle complex, cross-border transactions and disputes with confidence and clarity.'
‘Johnny Champion has good legal acumen and a deep understanding of the industry's commercial landscape. Clear, strategic advice for managing complex, high-value transactions and disputes with professionalism.'
- 'Stephenson Harwood has an outstanding aviation practice.'
- 'An unparalleled knowledge of the sector and a team of high quality lawyers who are easy to work with and provide a very high level of service.'
- 'Strong breadth and depth of knowledge across the team on aviation matters, they are also a pleasure to work with.'
- 'Johnny Champion is a very experienced litigator who marries legal acuity with strong technical nous.'
Key clients
- The Ryanair Group of airlines
- The Lion Air Group of airlines
- AirAsia
- Avion Express
- Buraq Air
- Cebu Pacific
- China Southern Airlines
- Gulf Air
- IndiGo
- Kuwait Airways Corporation
- Royal Jordanian Airlines
- Royal Wings
Work highlights
Acting for Ryanair in a high-profile claim in the English Commercial Court against NATS (En Route) Plc, who provide en-route air traffic services in the UK.
Acted for Ryanair in High Court proceedings brought by On the Beach Limited in the Competition List of the Chancery Division (the "OTB1 claim").
Acted for Alterna against the Irish aircraft lessor, Azex, and its guarantor, Atlas International, concerning a dispute arising out of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and the early return of two Boeing 737 aircraft.
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Richard Parsons
Other key lawyers
Johnny Champion