New Delhi: Neha Singh never planned to pursue aviation law, but once she stepped into the field, there was no turning back. Over the past 15 years, she has carved out a niche for herself, working with one of India’s top law firms and even gaining hands-on experience with an airline. Her first exposure to litigation was in aviation, and she quickly realized how dynamic and ever-evolving the sector is. Once you’re in, she says, it’s hard to leave.
One of the most complex and challenging aspects of aviation law is repossession, getting aircraft back when airlines struggle financially. Neha has played a key role in major repossession cases, including those involving Kingfisher, SpiceJet, and Jet Airways. She explains that repossession isn’t just about legal action; it’s a strategic process. It requires keeping an eye on the airline’s financial health, ensuring statutory payments are made, and managing relationships with regulators, airports, and suppliers. The good thing is that industry stakeholders and the government have worked together over the years to improve policies, making repossession smoother and more structured.
One of the biggest milestones in Indian aviation was the Tata Group’s acquisition of Air India. While Neha played a small role in this massive project, she is proud to have contributed. Her firm was responsible for conducting due diligence—a critical process that involved analyzing airline contracts, identifying risks, and ensuring all necessary compliances were in place. Due diligence lays the groundwork for a successful deal, and Neha’s expertise in aviation law made her an asset to the team.
India’s aviation regulations are complex, and international clients often need guidance on compliance. Whether it’s entering the market, operating within Indian jurisdiction, or managing an exit strategy, Neha ensures that her clients follow the right legal framework. The key, she says, is staying updated with evolving laws, using technology efficiently, and maintaining clear communication with all stakeholders.
Neha has also been instrumental in shaping aviation policies. The turning point came with the collapse of Kingfisher Airlines, which exposed the challenges international lessors faced in reclaiming financed aircraft. This led to greater collaboration between the government and the Aviation Working Group (AWG), resulting in key regulatory changes. One of the biggest wins was the recognition of the IDERA (Irrevocable De-registration and Export Request Authorization) provision in 2015. This allows lessors to quickly deregister and export aircraft if an airline defaults. Another milestone was the introduction of a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) in 2018, simplifying the aircraft export process. More recently, in 2023, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs issued a notification protecting aircraft repossessions from India’s bankruptcy laws—a change that Neha and her peers had been pushing for since 2018.
When it comes to high-value contracts involving lessors, banks, and airlines, Neha emphasizes the importance of thorough preparation and strong relationships. Multi-million dollar deals require legal and financial expertise, clear objectives, and flexibility to find creative solutions. Post-negotiation, maintaining compliance and ensuring smooth partnerships is just as crucial.
The aviation industry is changing rapidly, and leasing and financing trends reflect this evolution. Rising lease rates, supply chain issues affecting aircraft production, and the push for sustainable aviation are all shaping the sector. Additionally, there is a growing trend of using asset-backed securities for more flexible financing options. Neha believes these developments will continue to redefine the industry in the coming years.
Repossession sounds straightforward on paper, but in reality, it’s one of the most challenging aspects of aviation law. The toughest part? Gaining access to the aircraft, securing it, and getting the necessary permissions for export. Every hour an aircraft sits idle leads to financial losses, making speed a critical factor. While regulations have improved, there are still gray areas that can slow down the process.
For those looking to break into aviation law, Neha has some valuable advice. Developing a solid understanding of aviation laws and industry practices is crucial. Sharpening research and communication skills and engaging with international organizations like ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) and UNIDROIT can expand knowledge. But most importantly, having passion and commitment is what truly sets someone apart in the field.
With advancements in technology and a focus on sustainability, aviation law is evolving at a fast pace. New regulations are being introduced to address drones, cybersecurity, and alternative fuels. Governments and industry players are also working towards reducing aviation’s environmental impact. Neha believes these changes will make the industry more efficient, secure, and eco-friendly in the years to come.
