Law - Aviation Leasing & Finance
undefined

Law Society of Ireland

Law - Aviation Leasing & Finance

Programme structure and approach to learning
Ireland is internationally recognised as the global hub for aviation leasing and finance, with 14 of the top 15 global aircraft lessors enjoying a presence here. More than 60% of the world’s fleet of leased aircraft is owned, leased, or managed in Ireland. The major industry players have been attracted by Ireland’s stable political regime, membership of the EU, favourable time zone, and talented workforce – not to mention our legal and regulatory advantages. In addition, Ireland’s network of over 70 double tax treaties, combined with the absence of withholding tax on aircraft lease rentals and a corporate tax rate of 12.5%, makes Ireland a commercially attractive place to set up and run an aircraft leasing company. The aviation sector was hard hit during the Covid-19 pandemic but it is making a recovery.

This certificate provides comprehensive coverage of the key aspects of the aviation leasing and finance industry. It aims to deliver an in-depth analysis of the core legal and practical issues that parties typically encounter in aircraft leasing and finance transactions. It will address the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and how the industry has changed as a result.

Participants will gain an overview of the key legal, financial, and technical issues, as well as an understanding of the broader regulation, tax, and insurance aspects relevant to aircraft leasing and finance. The teaching faculty for this diploma comprises a fantastic array of world-renowned legal practitioners from Ireland, the UK, and the USA, along with leading aviation industry specialists.

This certificate also functions as a preparatory course for those intending to take the Diploma in Aviation Leasing and Finance but who do not meet the entry requirements.

Subjects taught

Modules
The programme is based on the following module scheme and covers key themes as listed below:

Module 1: Aviation Industry
Profile of the Irish aviation industry,
Development of industry,
Reasons why Ireland is an aviation hub,
Overview of tax and regulatory advantages.

Module 2: Aircraft leasing
Types of aircraft leases,
Key issues for lessors and lessees,
Lease structures,
Pre-lease investigation and structuring,
Aircraft operating lease agreement,
Main lease terms.

Module 3: Aviation financing
Types of finance and security,
Debt and structured finance,
Use of Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs),
Mortgages, guarantees, charges, assignments,
Structure and finance key documents.

Module 4: Key technical issues
Aircraft delivery,
Lease management,
Maintenance reserve management,
Maintenance claims,
Lease transitions,
Engine leasing – maintenance, records, security.

Module 5: Regulatory environment
Role of Irish Aviation Authority,
International regulation,
The Chicago Convention, ICAO, IATA,
The Cape Town Convention,
European Aviation Safety Agency Regulations,
EU Emissions Trading Scheme.

Module 6: Taxation and Aviation
Importance of Irish tax residence,
Depreciation, capital allowances,
Double taxation treaties,
Access to 12.5% rate,
Withholding tax.

Module 7: Insurance and Aviation
Relevant insurance principles,
Airline aviation insurances,
Lease insurance provisions,
Lessor considerations,
Claims management.

Module 8: Career Panel event
The careers panel offers participants an opportunity to get expert advice from industry professionals about gaining entry to the aviation industry or how to successfully move sectors within the industry. This event will take place online.

Workshops
Workshops are interactive sessions that focus on group problem-solving and are designed to revise all modules covered to date and to consolidate the participant’s knowledge.

Workshop 1: Thursday 26 October 2023
Workshop 2: Thursday 7 December 2023
Career panel event: Thursday 7 December 2023

Entry requirements

This course is suitable for the following:

-Solicitors, barristers, and trainees who advise aviation clients or who wish to join the aviation sector,
-Professionals working in the aviation industry who wish to expand their knowledge with a view to career advancement or moving laterally to another discipline within the industry,
-Professionals working in aircraft leasing companies or airlines,
Contract administrators and engineers,
-Professionals in financial institutions that fund the purchase of aircraft,
-Accountants, finance professionals, and tax consultants advising aviation clients, and
-Insurance professionals specialising in aviation insurance.

It is not necessary to have prior experience or knowledge of the aviation industry in order to apply for this certificate. Those who have successfully completed the Certificate in Aviation Leasing and Finance will be eligible for a discount on their diploma application.

We welcome applications from others who are suitably qualified. Please explain your interest and set out any relevant experience in a cover letter and a brief CV. Such applications are subject to a supplemental fee of €175.

Application dates

The closing date for applications for this course is 14 September 2023.

Duration

Delivery Method
Lectures released online on Thursdays at 6pm. Onsite and online interactive workshops. All sessions are recorded and available to view on demand.

Enrolment dates

Start Date Thursday 28 September 2023 at 6:00 PM

More details
  • Qualifications

    Certificate

  • Attendance type

    Evening,Part time

  • Apply to

    Course provider