With particular strength advising on drone matters, the team at Hogan Lovells US LLP remains active, handling a range of contractual, regulatory, and FAA mandates. In Washington DC, Lisa Ellman is widely regarded as an industry leader in the unmanned aircraft industry, where she has worked on multiple infrastructure inspections, FAA regulatory approvals, and wider policy issue matters. Ellman co-heads the team with Arjun Garg, also based in Washington, DC, who is well-placed to handle a range of regulatory matters, with recent highlights including advising on the regulatory aspects of high-value mergers and acquisitions and on the FAA’s commercial space licensing process. Working alongside them is Matthew Clark, who frequently represents clients before the DOT, FAA, and other federal agencies. Clark is also active in advising on a range of internal investigations and regulatory due diligence in whistleblower investigations for clients in the aviation sector. Liz Forro joined the team in January 2025 from the FAA’s UAS Integration Office and Office of Rulemaking, advising on a range of policy matters. Earl Adams Jr left the firm in December 2024.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Client satisfaction: NPS ®
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘This practice distinguishes itself through a combination of deep subject-matter expertise and a commitment to delivering exceptional client service. Its professionals are recognized leaders in their fields and consistently go above and beyond to achieve results.'
- 'Many team members have held significant government roles, providing them with unique insights into regulatory processes, policy development, and enforcement trends. This perspective enables them to anticipate challenges and craft strategies that are both practical and effective.’
- ‘The individuals I work with stand out for their depth of expertise, strategic thinking, and unwavering commitment to client success.'
- 'What truly differentiates them from competitors is their ability to combine technical mastery with practical, real-world insight, often informed by prior government service that gives them a unique perspective on regulatory processes and policy dynamics.'
- 'Arjun Garg is a standout partner whose experience as FAA Chief Counsel and Acting Deputy Administrator brings unparalleled credibility and foresight to complex aviation and regulatory matters. His responsiveness, creativity, and ability to navigate high-stakes issues set a benchmark for excellence.’
- ‘Arjun Garg, as a former FAA Chief Counsel, brings significant aviation regulatory experience to his work on our matters. His knowledge of the regulations and the inner workings of the agency are a great asset to us in our ongoing efforts to ensure compliance with the aviation regulations.’
Key clients
- American Airlines
- Commercial Drone Alliance
- Republic Airways
- Supernal
- Major League Baseball
- Liberty University School of Aeronautics
- Florida Power & Light
- Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma
- Hermeus
- Gridiron Air
Work highlights
Advising American Airlines’ regulatory affairs team as aviation regulatory counsel to assist the airline with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), US Department of Transportation (DOT), and other issues as they arise.
Continuing to work with the Commercial Drone Alliance (CDA). Under Lisa Ellman’s leadership, the CDA continues to guide the conversation between the commercial drone marketplace and regulators, seeking policy changes to enable drone technology, and working with the federal government and other stakeholders to integrate UAS into the national airspace system (NAS).
Advised on the establishment of Gridiron Air as a newly certificated airline operating under 14 CFR Part 121.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Arjun Garg
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Matthew Clark
Practice head
Lisa Ellman; Arjun Garg
Other key lawyers
Matthew Clark; Liz Forro