Vinson & Elkins Opens Office in Dublin, Expanding Global Reach in Aviation Finance

Partner David Berkery, who joined the firm in 2022 as part of Vinson & Elkins’ new global Aviation Finance practice, will lead the new office. He has over 18 years’ experience advising the world’s leading financial institutions, investment banks, airlines, aircraft leasing companies and private investors on all aspects of the acquisition, leasing, financing and trading of aircrafts.

“We have a rich history and established reputation for working with clients and their financing partners throughout the transportation industry,” said Keith Fullenweider, Chair of Vinson & Elkins. “Our expansion into Dublin strengthens our ability to serve clients in the aviation sector, further reinforcing the firm’s core strengths and commitment to supporting key infrastructure sectors that drive economic growth.”

“Establishing a presence in Dublin is a strategic move for the firm as we grow our practice and enhance our ability to serve the aviation financing industry,” said Berkery, who will be working between the New York and Dublin offices. “Dublin is the primary hub for aircraft financing and deserves a US and Global Chambers-ranked specialist team on the ground. I’m immensely proud of the commitment and foresight Vinson & Elkins has shown in making this investment which we see as being of enormous benefit to our clients.”

The Dublin office will host a dedicated team of New York and England & Wales qualified aviation finance lawyers who collaborate closely with the firm’s other aviation lawyers in New York and London. The cross-office team will deliver legal support for a multitude of complex aviation industry solutions, including leasing and financing, asset-backed securitizations, unsecured loans, warehouse financings, joint ventures, mergers and acquisitions, private equity investments, portfolio acquisitions, and restructurings. Vinson & Elkins’ global Aviation Finance practice has quickly gained recognition and accolades, including rankings by Chambers, Legal 500 and Ishka.