At Clifford Chance, New York’s Zarrar Sehgal spearheads a team of attorneys who ‘are exceptional in their depth of expertise, dedication, and ability to deliver innovative solutions in complex and challenging’ aviation matters. The practice acts for industry-leading investment entities, advising them on restructurings, aircraft portfolio management, investment vehicle structuring, and revolving credit facilities. A notable recent highlight was their advice to Deutsche Bank on the bidding process and eventual acquisition of $1.67bn of loans from another bank’s aircraft finance portfolio. Sehgal has a lot of experience with asset-backed security transactions whilst also working for banks, lendors, and lessors in various matters such as the acquisition of Castlelake Aviation by Avolon which is a deal involving $5bn worth of assets that is expected to be completed in 2025. Working alongside him, Emily Wicker has a strong pedigree in asset finance but is equipped to handle complex securitization transactions as well. John Howitt  is equipped to handle the full gamut of aviation finance matters ranging from restructurings and lease transactions to portfolio purchases and credit transactions. Rounding out the New York office, the dual-qualified Benjamin Fisher has a wealth of multi-jurisdictional financial experience, particularly debt financing.
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  • 'The Clifford Chance restructuring practice is adept at advising both US-based and non-US-based stakeholders. Where for example there is a diverse lender syndicate comprising US, European and Asian banks, Clifford Chance is skilled at explaining the unique features of US bankruptcy law to external creditors, whilst defending the interests of US creditors to the maximum.’

  • ‘Clifford Chance US LLP's restructuring practice demonstrates exceptional expertise and innovation in handling complex, multi-jurisdictional financial restructurings. The team's ability to seamlessly integrate diverse legal systems and manage intricate projects was evident in their work on the Cineworld restructuring. They successfully coordinated with counsel across multiple jurisdictions, ensuring that all aspects of the restructuring were addressed efficiently and effectively.

  • 'Their meticulous attention to detail was apparent in their thorough review of a vast array of documents, contracts, records, and register extracts to validate and perfect liens securing the financial facility across jurisdictions. The team showcased an exceptional ability to navigate substantial volumes of data under tight deadlines, ensuring optimal outcomes for the client.'
  • 'Clifford Chance has embraced innovative approaches to restructuring, employing advanced collaborative tools to enhance communication and harmonize workflows across jurisdictions. This emphasis on technology, coupled with the firm’s commitment to excellence and collaboration, ensures that clients receive comprehensive and tailored solutions to their most complex restructuring challenges.’
  • ‘The individuals at Clifford Chance US LLP are exceptional in their depth of expertise, dedication, and ability to deliver innovative solutions in complex and challenging restructuring matters. Their standout qualities include technical excellence, strong leadership, and an unwavering commitment to collaboration and client success.

  • 'Additionally, the broader Clifford Chance team consistently exhibited outstanding qualities such as responsiveness, dedication, and the ability to work under tight deadlines without compromising the quality of work. This combination of professionalism, innovation, and teamwork differentiates them from competitors and ensures exceptional value for their clients.’
  • ‘CC is in the process of significantly expanding their bankruptcy and restructuring team.’

  • 'Jeniffer deMarco is a trailblazer.'
  • 'Doug Deutsch is good at bringing practical restructuring advice to complex situations. He is always pragmatic and focused on getting a transaction to the right outcome.'
  • 'Douglas Deutsch cultivates strong one-on-one relationships with principals.'

Kernmandanten

  • TrueNoord
  • VistaJet Group
  • Airborne Capital
  • BBAM Aircraft Leasing & Management
  • MUFG
  • CDPQ
  • Avolon
  • Global Jet Capital
  • Carlyle Aviation
  • AerCap

Highlight-Mandate

Advised Deutsche Bank AG on the acquisition of c.€1.67 billion of loans from the aircraft financing portfolio of Norddeutsche Landesbank (NORD/LB). The loans were to a diverse range of lessors and airlines and secured by commercial passenger aircraft and engines.
Advised CDPQ on the establishment of a new US$1.5 billion aircraft investment vehicle. CDPQ will be the majority equity investor and SMBC Aviation Capital will hold a minority equity investment and act as servicer to the platform.
Advised Avolon, a leading global aviation finance company, on its agreement to acquire Castlelake Aviation Limited, an entity managed by global alternative investment manager Castlelake L.P. The transaction is expected to complete in the first quarter of 2025.

Anwält*innen

Hall of fame

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Führende Partner*innen

Die stärksten Partner*innen ihres Praxisbereichs, die eine führende Rolle in signifikanten Mandaten einnehmen und weitreichende Anerkennung unter Wettbewerbern und Mandanten genießen.

Führende Associates

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Benjamin Fisher

Praxisleitung

Zarrar Sehgal

Weitere Kernanwält*innen

Emily Wicker; Benjamin Fisher; John Howitt