One of the core strengths of the firm is our Aviation Practice.  We maintain one of the largest and most comprehensive aviation law practices in Canada and have been consistently identified as one of Canada’s top firms for aviation. Our lawyers are also consistently recognized as leaders in their fields.

Our worldwide client base includes domestic and international airlines, fixed and rotary wing charter operators, maintenance facilities, flight schools and the insurers for each of these organizations.  Our multi-jurisdictional teams of lawyers are committed to providing superior legal advice in a cost-effective and cohesive manner across the country.  Our lawyers are qualified to practice in different provinces and regularly appear in the courts of British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, Northwest Territories, and the Yukon.

Alexander Holburn’s Aviation Practice provides clients with comprehensive services on a broad range of aviation law issues.  Our team acts on matters relating to all aspects of regulatory, licensing, tariff drafting/revision (international, domestic, charter, passenger and cargo), charter and lease agreements, corporate/commercial services, emergency response preparedness, airline claims handling, aircraft accident litigation, employment, immigration, environmental, and product liability issues.  We bring decades of experience within the province of British Columbia as well as nationally and internationally.

Our Services

Aircraft Accident/Incident

We represent a wide spectrum of clients in claims arising from aircraft accidents and incidents. We are repeatedly called upon to handle major aircraft accident litigation and bring decades of experience in the province of British Columbia as well as nationally and internationally. We have handled several major airline accidents.

With the assistance of appropriate experts we assess liability issues in the context of human factors, engineering, structures, maintenance procedures, pilot proficiency and other factors. We have experience in handling catastrophic losses, and in resolving single and multiple wrongful death claims, class actions and personal injury actions.

Product Liability Claims

We have successfully engaged in engine and air-frame products liability claims on behalf of underwriters against American, international and Canadian aircraft and component parts manufacturers. We maintain relationships with a variety of aviation consultants and experts necessary to support such litigation.

Airline Claims Handling

On instructions from either an airline or its insurers we provide a complete claims handling service for both passenger and cargo claims. Our familiarity with airline practices and procedures, tariffs, terms and conditions of carriage and safety regulations enables us to provide an initial response to claims, make recommendations with respect to settlement and, if necessary, provide a full defence in subsequent litigation.

Commercial

Our knowledge of the aviation business makes us effective in pursuing or defending and resolving claims arising out of aircraft and equipment purchase agreements, sale and lease agreements, accounts collection and enforcement of property rights.

 A picture of four of our aviation insurance professionals

Industry Involvement

Members of our Aviation Practice are actively involved in:

  • The British Columbia Aviation Council
  • The Aviation Insurance Association
  • The Helicopter Association of Canada
  • Canadian Owners and Pilots Association
  • The Northern Air Transport Association
  • American Bar Association, Forum on Air and Space Law
  • International Air Transport Association
  • Canadian Bar Association – National and Provincial Sections
  • The British Columbia Float Plane Operators Association