David Berkery

The expansion strengthens the New York-headquartered firm’s global presence and aims to enhance its ability to serve clients in the aviation sector.

Partner David Berkery, who joined the firm’s global aviation finance practice in 2022, will lead the new office while continuing to work between New York and Dublin.

Mr Berkery, who is tri-qualified in New York, England and Wales, and Ireland, has over 18 years’ experience advising financial institutions, investment banks, airlines, aircraft leasing companies and private investors on all aspects of the acquisition, leasing, financing and trading of aircrafts.

Keith Fullenweider, chair of Vinson & Elkins, said: “We have a rich history and established reputation for working with clients and their financing partners throughout the transportation industry.

“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.”

Mr Berkery said: “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.

“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 and 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 securitisations, unsecured loans, warehouse financings, joint ventures, mergers and acquisitions, private equity investments, portfolio acquisitions, and restructurings.