Aviation Law

Harper Grey's Aviation Law Practice Group is counsel to some of the world's largest airlines and helicopter operators.  We have an in-depth understanding of the British Columbia and Canadian market and are experienced in the handling of all aspects of air operations and risk.  We work with fixed and rotary wing operators, flight training schools, maintenance and overhaul facilities, and airport operators and their insurers.

We work closely with local adjusters and respected aviation experts to make an early assessment of the legal liability exposure faced by our underwriter and operator clients and provide a plan of action for the most efficient and cost effective resolution of claims.  We provide early reserve recommendations and prompt updates as a case develops.

Harper Grey lawyers draw upon a long history of working within the airline industry.  In 1991 Brenner & Company, a firm specializing in defence in aviation, merged with Harper Grey LLP.

Our commitment to the Aviation Industry extends beyond simply providing "after accident" advice.  Members of the group are dedicated to sharing their knowledge and assisting their clients in accident prevention and education.  We welcome the opportunity to participate in safety seminars and in-house educational courses at the request of industry members.

Our Areas of Focus

• Passenger and third party liability claims handling
• Multi-jurisdictional major losses
• Cargo claims
• Hull and engine damage claims
• Ground handling claims
• Airport operator liability
• Tour operator liability
• Product liability
• Coverage and subrogation opinions
• Emergency preparedness and response
• Regulatory and enforcement actions before the Civil Aviation Tribunal (CAT)
• Advice on BC substantive law and procedure
• Enforcement of foreign letters rogatory
• Coroner's Inquests
• Transportation Safety Board Investigations and Hearings

Representative Experience

Our significant cases include:

• Representing underwriters and successfully concluding complex death claim actions brought in California arising out of an accident occurring in British Columbia.
• Representing airlines and operators in hull loss subrogated actions.
• Acting as counsel for the carrier in an action concerning application of Article 23 of the Warsaw Convention. MDSI v. FedEx, 2003, British Columbia Court of Appeal, 2003.
• Successfully defending an operator in a lease dispute with an aircraft owner. Moroz and Ryken Helicopters v. Les Helicoptres Abitibi Ltee., 1999.
• Defending maintenance and overhaul facilities in complex product liability claims.

Contact Person

The Chair of our Air Law Practice Group is Bryan G. Baynham, Q.C..  You may reach him at 604.895.2802 or bbaynham@harpergrey.com.