Aviation: Finance
Asia-Pacific Guide 2025 : Asia-Pacific Region
Band 3
Contact number
+81 3 6205 3600Chambers Review
K&L Gates's aviation finance group demonstrates strength by advising on aircraft financing and leasing transactions in the Asia-Pacific region. Resources are available across various offices, such as Hong Kong, Singapore and Sydney, with particular strength in Tokyo. The team has an established presence in cross-border aircraft portfolio acquisition and financing deals. The team is notable for acting for lessors, airlines and banks, with a focus on Japanese clients. K&L Gates is further noted for its experience in JOLCO structures and for asset-backed securitisation matters. Its restructuring expertise complements the firm's aviation finance team and bolsters its cross-border capabilities.
Work Highlights
- K&L Gates Straits Law advised AerDragon Aviation Partners on the USD172.5 million refinancing of 11 mid-life aircraft on lease to six different airlines.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"I appreciate their ability to focus on the crux of the issue, balance the legal and commercial, and work across departments to ensure they provide the most thorough, accurate advice possible."
"The team has a great understanding of the aviation business."
"I appreciate their ability to focus on the crux of the issue, balance the legal and commercial, and work across departments to ensure they provide the most thorough, accurate advice possible."
"The team has a great understanding of the aviation business."
Notable Practitioners
Samuel Kolehmainen is active handling a variety of mandates, such as advising on loan facility transactions and the restructuring of lease agreements. He is regularly sought after by leading banks and airlines.
"Samuel is just excellent."
Robert Melson is based in Tokyo and is recognised as an established aviation finance specialist who often acts for lessors on aircraft leasings and financings.
"Robert knows exactly what is going on in the market. He is extremely commercial and focused on getting the deal done."
"The sharpest legal and commercial mind in the industry. Full of alacrity and zeal."
Duc Nguyen is a partner in the firm's aviation finance practice, assisting a range of key lenders and leasing companies. He is also well placed to assist with transactions involving the Vietnamese aviation market.
"Duc is an expert in aviation law in Asia."
"Duc Nguyen is a perfect example of efficiency and reliability. He is dedicated to customers and has a real understanding of all the commercial aspects in the aviation sector."
"Duc has keen commercial awareness and strong legal acumen, is up to date on market developments and works well with both the client and counterparties to accommodate each of their needs."
Ranked Lawyers at
K&L Gates
Asia-Pacific Region