Fountain Court Chambers‘ barristers are called upon for some of the sector’s most complicated litigation, representing major airlines, insurers and other key players in disputes where considerable sums are at stake. Bankim Thanki KC is representing a number of syndicates facing claims from lessors on their all risk and war risk policies following the detention of their aircraft in Russia, and is also a popular choice for lessors in redelivery and rental payment disputes. Further insurance expertise comes in the form of James Cutress KC, leading the war risk team for AIG in defence of claims brought by a number of aircraft lessors with assets claimed by Russian carriers. Akhil Shah KC is also instructed in the Russian aircraft disputes, acting for Tokio Marine Kiln in defending claims made on war risk policies, and also appeared before the Supreme Court for the airline in Lipton v BA Cityflyer, which hinges on whether pilot illness constitutes extraordinary circumstances under EC261. Lessors instruct Rosalind Phelps KC on a range of disputes, ranging from delivery delay claims to issues over rents payable. Giles Robertson maintains a varied practice that spans issues from leasing and maintenance disputes to redelivery matters and delay compensation claims.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Silks

Leading Silks
KCs at the very top of their field, with a long-established record of market-defining cases, and widespread endorsement from clients and peers. All silks appointed in the last two rounds are listed further below.
Akhil Shah KC
1
Akhil Shah KC
Fountain Court Chambers
'A silk at the top of his game.'
Bankim Thanki KC
1
Bankim Thanki KC
Fountain Court Chambers
'Bankim is fantastic for aviation matters.'
2024 Silks
KCs at the very top of their field, with a long-established record of market-defining cases, and widespread endorsement from clients and peers. All silks appointed in the last two rounds are listed further below.

Juniors

Leading Juniors
Leading juniors are those with significant experience of key cases, strong market recognition from both peers and clients, and are seen as future candidates for silk.
Niamh Cleary
4
Niamh Cleary
Fountain Court Chambers
'An incredibly intelligent junior.'
Deborah Horowitz
4
Deborah Horowitz
Fountain Court Chambers
'She is very hard-working, bright and dedicated.'