A go-to choice for aviation sector clients, including global carriers, DLA Piper ABBC advises on the financing, leasing, purchase, maintenance and registration of aircraft, as well as litigation and regulatory compliance. The practice is led by António Moura Portugal, a reference for major airlines operating in Portugal. Stéphanie Sá Silva focuses on M&A, corporate, and regulatory matters in the aviation sector, while Inês Teixeira advises on complex regulatory issues in this space. Catarina Portela Morais is experienced in aviation litigation, and Inês Santana Metello specialises in sector-related compliance, litigation, and licensing matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘I would like to highlight António Portugal, Catarina Portela Morais, and Inês Santana Metello, with whom I deal regularly, for all the qualities described above regarding the team, adding their attentiveness and the fact that they are always available, and even when not in contact (due to meetings or hearings), they promptly return the call, sometimes even quickly on weekends.'
- ‘One of the traits that most distinguishes DLA Piper in Portugal is the complete availability of its team and the speed of its response to our requests, reflecting a genuine commitment to the effectiveness and success of each project. Our relationship with DLA Piper has been guided by a true partnership, marked by trust and clear communication, reflecting a rigorous, proactive, and results-oriented approach. The team demonstrates an exceptional capacity for response in diverse contexts, both in Portugal and abroad, ensuring efficient monitoring of complex and multidisciplinary processes.’
- ‘Stéphanie Sá Silva, who has been providing direct support, demonstrates a remarkably quick and accurate understanding of the issues raised, comprehending not only the legal aspects but also the strategic framework and the way our organisation operates. This sensitivity has allowed for appropriate, objective, and high-value-added solutions.’
- ‘In my view, what makes this office unique is, on the one hand, its experience in the aviation industry and, on the other hand, its constant availability and quick response, always focused on the client's needs.’
- ‘The individuals who stand out on the team are António Portugal and Inês Teixeira, experienced lawyers knowledgeable about the aviation industry who are always available, always responding quickly, efficiently, and pragmatically to requests.’
- ‘This is a leading firm in the air transport sector, with in-depth and unique knowledge of the industry in Portugal and practical experience in the most relevant areas of law in this sector, namely corporate, tax and regulatory law.'
- ‘Stéphanie Sá Silva's work reveals remarkable technical expertise and a deep understanding of regulatory, European and corporate law matters, with specific application in the air transport sector. Her experience allows her to combine strategic vision with exceptional technical rigour, offering highly qualified legal advice adapted to complex and demanding contexts.'
Key clients
- Air France / KLM
- Lufthansa
- NetJets
- Turkish Airlines
- EasyJet
- Emirates
- Wizz Air
- Swissport
- British Airways
- TAP Portugal
Work highlights
Advising Lufthansa, Swiss, Air France, United, Turkish, SATA, TAAG, and TAP on challenging the "parking charge" levied by the company that manages the airports in Portugal (ANA Airports) for a service (boarding bridges) not provided by the airport managing body.
Representing RENA (airlines association, comprising 18 legacy carriers based in Portugal) in the consultation procedures for airport charges, quality of service and the new airport of Lisbon.
Representing TAP Air Portugal, Eurowings, Cabo Verde Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Azul Linhas Aéreas Brasileiras, and easyJet as counter-interested parties in a lawsuit where the company that manages the airports in Portugal (ANA Airports) challenged the National Authority of Civil Aviation in Portugal (ANAC) decision to reimburse airlines regarding the €7.1m in excess revenue collected at Lisbon Airport in 2020.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
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Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
António Moura Portugal
Other key lawyers
Stéphanie Sá Silva; Inês Teixeira; Catarina Portela Morais; Inês Santana Metello