Corporate Aviation Of Counsel

Job Overview:
A prominent U.S.-based law firm is seeking a highly skilled Of Counsel – Corporate Aviation attorney to join its Business and Transactions practice. This position is ideal for a senior aviation attorney with over a decade of experience advising on the acquisition, financing, structuring, and regulatory compliance of commercial and personal aircraft. The role involves working closely with a global client base that includes airlines, high-net-worth individuals, leasing companies, banks, and corporate flight departments. The opportunity is open to attorneys licensed in any U.S. jurisdiction where the firm maintains an office. 

Location:

• Atlanta, GA

Duties:

• Lead domestic and international aircraft transactions, including acquisition, sale, leasing, and financing

• Advise clients on regulatory compliance with FAA and other aviation authorities

• Counsel on the structuring of aircraft ownership and operational arrangements

• Navigate complex federal, state, and local tax issues associated with aircraft ownership and use

• Draft and negotiate aircraft purchase agreements, leasing contracts, and related documentation

• Provide legal guidance on aircraft completion, customization, and maintenance matters

• Serve as primary legal advisor in transactions involving various aircraft classes, including general aviation and VIP-configured widebody aircraft

• Represent a broad range of clients including:

  • Commercial airlines (domestic and international)

  • Corporate flight departments

  • Private aircraft owners

  • Leasing companies, banks, and OEMs

• Independently manage transactions and client relationships

• Assist in expanding the firm’s aviation practice through business development initiatives

Requirements:

• Minimum of 10 years of experience handling corporate aviation transactions

• Proven track record of independently managing client relationships and high-stakes transactions

• Strong knowledge of FAA compliance, aviation tax law, and industry regulations

• Experience with aircraft from small general aviation types to Boeing 747-800 and 787 VIP configurations

• Active bar admission in the jurisdiction of the selected office location

• Existing client relationships or a portable book of business is a plus

Education:

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited U.S. law school

Certifications:

• Active and in-good-standing bar license in one of the states corresponding to the firm’s offices

Skills:

• Mastery of contract negotiation and drafting in the aviation context

• Expertise in regulatory compliance and aviation finance structuring

• Strong communication and client advisory skills

• Ability to manage multi-party and cross-border transactions

• Attention to detail with a commercial and solution-oriented mindset

• Strategic thinking and ability to grow client relationships

Benefits:

• Bonus potential, including incentives tied to new business generation

• Comprehensive benefits package, including:

  • Medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage

  • Life insurance and short-/long-term disability

  • 401(k) retirement savings plan

  • Health care and dependent care flexible spending accounts

  • Health savings account (HSA)

  • Firm-subsidized emergency child and elder care

  • Family and medical leave policies

  • Pre-tax transportation programs

  • Employee assistance program (EAP)