Corporate Aviation Of Counsel

Job Overview:
A highly respected national law firm is seeking a Corporate Aviation Of Counsel with a minimum of 10 years of experience to join its Business and Transactions practice group. This position focuses on representing a global clientele in high-touch aircraft transactions, including commercial airlines, corporate and individual aircraft owners, financial institutions, leasing companies, and aviation suppliers. The role encompasses legal counseling on aircraft acquisition, financing, regulatory compliance, tax structuring, and operational matters. 

Location:

• Los Angeles, CA

Duties:

• Advise clients on aircraft acquisitions, sales, leases, financings, and ownership structures

• Navigate FAA and DOT regulatory compliance, export control issues, and airworthiness matters

• Counsel clients on federal, state, and local tax implications of aircraft transactions

• Lead complex transactional work related to aircraft completion, maintenance, and customization

• Draft and negotiate transaction documents, including purchase agreements, lease contracts, and financing arrangements

• Serve as principal counsel in transactions involving aircraft of all sizes, from general aviation planes to VIP-configured Boeing 787s

• Represent a diverse global client base, including:

  • Commercial airlines

  • High-net-worth individuals and family offices

  • Corporate aviation departments

  • Aircraft leasing and financing institutions

  • Aviation suppliers and OEMs

• Manage client relationships independently and contribute to business development

Requirements:

• 10+ years of experience in corporate aviation transactions

• Demonstrated ability to manage complex transactions and advise clients autonomously

• In-depth understanding of FAA regulatory environment and aviation tax structures

• Experience with both U.S. and cross-border aviation matters

• Active bar admission in the state corresponding to the selected office

• Existing client relationships or portable book of business is strongly preferred

Education:

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

Certifications:

• Active and in-good-standing bar membership in the applicable U.S. jurisdiction

Skills:

• High-level expertise in aircraft transactional law and FAA compliance

• Strong contract drafting and negotiation skills

• Proficiency in advising on tax and regulatory structures related to aviation

• Ability to manage domestic and international deals across jurisdictions

• Effective communication and client-relations management

• Strategic and detail-oriented approach to complex legal matters

Benefits:

• Bonus opportunities, including incentives for new business generation

• Full benefits package, including:

  • Medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage

  • Life insurance and short/long-term disability

  • 401(k) retirement savings plan

  • Health and dependent care flexible spending accounts

  • Health savings account (HSA)

  • Firm-subsidized emergency child and elder care services

  • Family and medical leave

  • Pre-tax transportation program

  • Employee assistance program (EAP)