PEOPLE CAPABILITIES NEWS & EVENTS ABOUT CAREERS OFFICES & CONTACT Aviation Featured Publication: Comfort Animals are Not Service Animals: U.S. DOT to Narrow Scope of Service Animal Accommodations [Alert] David Heffernan and Rachel Welford discuss the significant changes the DOT made to its regulations relating to the transportation of service animals by air. More Aviation is truly the engine of the global economy. The industry today faces a number of significant challenges, including maintaining safety and security, limiting environmental impact, and weathering volatile economic conditions. Cozen O’Connor’s dedicated team has deep industry-specific knowledge of aviation laws and norms, and provides regulatory, litigation, and business counsel to clients operating in every area of the aviation and aerospace fields. Now more than ever, given the legal and regulatory implications the aviation industry faces in the shadow of COVID-19, including those attendant to the transport of the vaccine, counsel on the cutting edge is essential. Few law firms support an aviation practice as robust as Cozen O’Connor’s. Indeed, as other firms turn increasingly to niche markets, Cozen O’Connor continues to invest in its full-service aviation practice. We believe that aviation clients benefit from seamless, comprehensive representation through a single law firm. Cozen O’Connor has attorneys with experience in a vast range of related subspecialties and offers global reach. With offices in 30 cities across North America and Europe, and extensive experience working in Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa, Cozen O’Connor is ready to respond wherever and whenever needs arise. Our Rapid Response Team can provide immediate and ongoing counsel in response to aviation accidents and incidents. We represent major U.S. and foreign passenger and cargo air carriers, airline trade associations, airports, aircraft, aviation products and component part manufacturers, aviation and aerospace insurers and reinsurers, repair facilities, and manufacturers and operators of unmanned aircraft systems (drones). We also serve aircraft lessors, air travel distribution companies, air/ground express delivery companies, logistics specialists, and large corporations, banks, private equity funds, and other investors with aviation-related operations or transactions. Regulatory. Cozen O’Connor attorneys advise clients on the full array of laws and regulations, including those enforced by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the Department of Homeland Security and Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and the Antitrust Division of the Department of Justice. We assist with regulatory compliance; appear before executive branch agencies; and advocate before policymakers and regulators in Washington, D.C. During the coronavirus pandemic, our team has been actively involved in advising major U.S. and foreign airlines and other aviation companies on a wide range of COVID-related issues, including those under the CARES Act. Litigation. Cozen O’Connor handles wrongful death and survival actions, personal injury claims, product liability and recalls, property damage claims, liability claims, coverage disputes, air accidents, and other claims under the Montreal and Warsaw conventions. Cozen O’Connor has earned its reputation as a top trial firm by successfully trying multi-million dollar aviation claims to verdict and aggressively negotiating favorable settlements on behalf of aviation clients. The firm also assists aviation clients in state and federal government investigations. Firm attorneys regularly represent subjects and third parties in federal investigations of all types, including mergers, civil antitrust, consumer protection, and criminal. The firm has a dedicated State Attorneys General practice that defends clients against state consumer protection, deceptive trade, and advertising claims. Business Transactions. Cozen O’Connor regularly assists with major aviation-related transactions, including mergers, acquisitions, alliances, joint ventures, sale and leasing of aircraft, aviation financings, and aircraft management and ownership agreements. Our aviation attorneys work closely with antitrust, energy, environment, finance and tax specialists, all of whom have experience in the aviation industry, to support innovative cross-border deals and develop innovative solutions in order to maximize value for clients. The aviation team includes fellows in the prestigious American College of Trial Lawyers; a member of the U.S. delegations to international air transport agreement; a past president of the Insurance Law Commission of the Union Internationale des Avocats; a special assistant U.S. Attorney; a former Air Force Judge Advocate; an editor of leading treatises on aviation law in the United States and Europe; the editor-in-chief of The Air & Space Lawyer, a quarterly publication of the American Bar Association; a member of the International Association of Women in Aviation; and a former military pilot with thousands of flight hours. Tweet EXPERIENCE Represented a French aircraft manufacturer as lessor of five cargo aircraft and in the creation of a trust structure for the company’s U.S. operations. Represented Alaska Airlines in connection with its selection by the U.S. Department of Transportation as one of only eight U.S. airlines authorized to introduce scheduled air service to Havana, Cuba. Represented Alaska Airlines in connection with its $4 billion acquisition of Virgin America, including advising the airline on issues relating to the regulatory review of the transaction and the integration of the airlines' operations. Represented Versa Capital Management in connection with its acquisition of Silver Airways, a commuter air carrier based in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida and Seaborne Airlines, based in Puerto Rico. We handled the aviation regulatory portion of the transactions, including pre-acquisition due diligence, and represented Versa in the carriers' post-transaction fitness reviews before the Department of Transportation. PUBLICATIONS U.S. Government Requires COVID-19 Vaccination for Foreign Visitors Arriving by Air; Modifies Pre-Departure Testing and Data Collection Requirements [Alert] October 28, 2021 Jonathon Foglia and Rachel Welford discuss the president's proclamation and the CDC's orders that impose additional restrictions and documentary requirements on airlines and other air operators, passengers, and crew members to combat the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19. Biden’s Competition EO Mandates Scrutiny of Airline Practices [Alert] July 12, 2021 Jonathon Foglia and Rachel Welford discuss President Biden's executive order to promote competition across the U.S. economy. TSA “Secured Packing Facility” Program Will Facilitate Compliance with New Cargo Screening Requirements [Alert] June 22, 2021 Rachel Welford discusses the TSA's new Secured Packing Facility program designed to help ease the burden of complying with new cargo screening requirements. DHS Again Postpones REAL ID Deadline [Alert] April 29, 2021 Rachel Welford discusses DHS's extension of the REAL ID deadline to May 3, 2023. U.S. Airlines, Aviation Contractors to Receive Additional $15 Billion Under American Rescue Plan Act [Alert] March 15, 2021 Rachel Welford and Katie Sobotta discuss the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 that provides much-needed relief to airlines for the continuation of employee wages, salaries, and benefits. A Delicate Balancing Act for Airlines: the CDC Mask Mandate v. the Rights of Passengers with Disabilities [Alert] February 16, 2021 Mark Atwood discusses the CDC, DOT, and TSA's orders and notices requiring all passengers to wear masks but also allowing exceptions for persons with disabilities, and what air carriers should do in the next couple of weeks to determine how to thread this needle. DOT’s ‘Unfair Or Deceptive Practices’ Rule Is Fair And Transparent [Aviation Daily] February 08, 2021 David Heffernan co-authored an article for Aviation Daily discussing how the U.S. Transportation Department (DOT) issued a rule clarifying how it interprets its statutory authority to prohibit airlines from engaging in “unfair or deceptive practices.” CDC Requires COVID-19 Testing of International Passenger Arrivals in the United States [Alert] January 15, 2021 Rachel Welford and Kathryn Sobotta discuss the CDC's new notice and order requiring pre-departure negative COVID-19 tests from all U.S.-bound passengers traveling by aircraft from any foreign country. DOT Unfair Practices Rule Adds Clarity To Airline Regulation [Law360] January 12, 2021 David Heffernan contributed an article to Law360 discussing what the DOT plans to do to prohibit unfair and deceptive airline practices. DOT Confirms That Comfort Animals Are Not Service Animals [Alert] December 07, 2020 David Heffernan and Rachel Welford discuss the DOT's new regulation, “Traveling by Air with Service Animals,” that substantially revises its rules governing the transportation of service animals onboard aircraft. GAO Report: TSA Should Review Its “Third-Party Testing” Program for New Security Technology [Alert] November 10, 2020 Rachel Welford discusses TSA’s third-party testing program and the GAO's report that it may be in need of a tune-up. New Guidance on Tax Holiday Suspension for Air Transportation Federal Excise Tax [Alert] October 20, 2020 Steve Haas discusses recent guidance regarding the suspension of the 7.5 percent air transportation federal excise tax and how it may impact your travel plans in 2021. Senate Bill Would Require TSA Temperature Checks at U.S. Airports [Alert] September 30, 2020 Rachel Welford discusses the bipartisan bill that would require TSA to conduct temperature checks on all passengers and other individuals seeking entry to an airport’s sterile area. The Efficacy of Preemption Defenses in Airline COVID-19 Litigation [Alert] July 27, 2020 William H. Walsh and Anusha E. Jones discuss potential preemption defenses that could be available to airlines and their potential effectiveness. DOT Provides Airline Payment Flexibility for Enforcement Penalty During COVID-19 [Alert] July 17, 2020 David Heffernan discusses the DOT's consent order against Volaris and how it may provide insights into how DOT is approaching enforcement during COVID-19. TSA Has Legal Authority to Conduct Air Passenger Temperature Screenings [Alert] May 20, 2020 Rachel Welford discusses how and why TSA should begin temperature screenings. DOT Issues New Guidance Regarding Airlines’ Obligation to Provide Passenger Refunds [Alert] May 13, 2020 Rachel Welford discusses DOT's guidance for airline carriers operating flights to, from, and within in the United States on when it is necessary to offer ticketed passengers refunds. Rolls-Royce Petitions U.S. Supreme Court to Block Discovery in Aid of International Arbitration [Alert] April 28, 2020 David Loh and Chris Raleigh discuss the possibility of the U.S. Supreme Court permitting U.S. discovery in international private arbitration and what that means for foreign companies doing business in the United States. FAA Issues Guidance for Airlines to Carry Cargo in Passenger Cabin April 20, 2020 Rachel Welford discusses the FAA's guidance for passenger airlines contemplating using empty apace in their aircraft to transport cargo. TSA Explores Ways to Streamline International Air Cargo Screening [Alert] April 15, 2020 Rachel Welford discusses the TSA's RFI soliciting input from the air cargo industry regarding new international screening standards for air cargo. DOT Offers Airlines No Relief From Ticket Refund Obligations in Light of COVID-19 Flight Disruptions [Alert] April 07, 2020 Rachel Welford and David Heffernan discuss DOT's notice regarding "Refunds By Carriers Given the Unprecedented Impact of the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency on Air Travel" and what carriers must do to ensure their compliance. CARES Act Suspends Air Transportation Federal Excise Tax April 06, 2020 Steve Haas discusses the suspension of the FET and what jet cardholders and customers of on-demand charters should do. DOT to Impose Minimum Air Service Obligations For U.S. Carriers Receiving CARES Act Financial Assistance [Alert] March 31, 2020 David Heffernan and Rachel Welford discuss DOT's proposed parameters for implementing the authority granted it by the CARES Act to maintain scheduled air transportation to U.S. points. Considerations When Aviation Travel Is a Necessity March 27, 2020 Steve Haas discusses options for individuals for whom aviation travel is a necessity, including private charters and jet cards. Trump Announces REAL ID Compliance Deadline Postponed Due to COVID-19 March 26, 2020 Rachel Welford explains why DHS postponed REAL ID compliance to October 1, 2021. Turbulence Ahead for the Airlines Under the Montreal Convention? [Alert] March 23, 2020 Chris Kende discusses liability issues airline carriers may be facing under the Montreal Convention following the coronavirus pandemic. FAA Grants Airlines Relief From U.S. Airport Slot-Use Restrictions in Response to Coronavirus [Alert] March 16, 2020 David Heffernan discusses the FAA's announcement that carriers that cancel or reduce service at U.S. slot controlled airports will not forfeit their slots. Why DOT Should Interpret "Deceptive Practices" Using a "Reasonable Consumer" Standard [The Air & Space Lawyer] March 13, 2020 David Heffernan co-authored an article for The Air and Space Lawyer, explaining how the FTC, in applying its test for "deception," determines what constitutes "reasonable" consumer behavior. DOT Clarifies its Enforcement Policy Regarding Coronavirus [Alert] March 06, 2020 Rachel Welford discusses DOT's “Enforcement Notice Regarding Denying Boarding by Airlines of Individuals Suspected of Having Coronavirus.” U.S. Department of Transportation Proposes to Define “Unfair and Deceptive Practices” [Alert] March 04, 2020 Mark Atwood discusses the February 28, 2020, Notice of Proposed Rulemaking. GAO Urges a More Strategic Approach to Combatting “Insider” Security Threats at U.S. Airports [Alert] February 19, 2020 Rachel Welford discusses the GAO's recommendations to the TSA for combatting insider threats at U.S. airports. Comfort Animals are Not Service Animals: U.S. DOT to Narrow Scope of Service Animal Accommodations [Alert] February 03, 2020 David Heffernan and Rachel Welford discuss the significant changes the DOT made to its regulations relating to the transportation of service animals by air. DOJ Offers Incentives to Encourage Self-Reporting of Export and Sanctions Violations [Alert] December 19, 2019 Martin S. Bloor and Don Kassilke the DOJ's revised guidance regarding VSDs to further encourage companies to self-report potential criminal violations of the U.S. export control and economic sanctions laws. DOT Proposes Revisions to its Airline Tarmac Delay Regulations [Alert] October 28, 2019 David Heffernan and Rachel Welford discuss DOT's efforts to conform their regulations to the FAA Extension, Safety, and Security Act of 2016’s requirements. FAA Plans to Increase Rest Periods for U.S. Airline Flight Attendants October 01, 2019 David Heffernan discusses the FAA's advance notice of proposed rulemaking and when the rule change will likely go into effect. TSA Adopts Alternative Approach to Enforcement Against Airlines and Other Regulated Entities September 09, 2019 How do you create a regulatory framework that sustains the highest levels of aviation security through “shared outcomes”? The Transportation Security Administration’s new Action Plan Program (APP) seeks to answer that essential question. OFAC Issues Iran-Related Civil Aviation Industry Advisory July 30, 2019 Don Kassilke and Bob Foster discuss OFAC's Iran-Related Civil Aviation Industry Advisory and why it could mean OFAC will be taking a greater interest in the Iranian aviation sector. It’s Alive – Trump Administration Resurrects Helms-Burton Title III April 24, 2019 Don Kassilke and Matthew Howell discuss what the implementation of Title III means in practical terms and how it could impact entities trading with Cuba. Reflections on Boeing’s Exposure Following the 737 MAX Crashes [Alert] April 17, 2019 Chris Kende, Bruce Maffeo and Dina Moussa, discuss the civil and criminal liability Boeing could face following the two crashes and subsequent grounding of the brand new Boeing 737 MAX. Space Regulations: To Boldly Go … Or Lightly Tread February 06, 2019 Bill Walsh discusses why reconciling SPD-2 and SPD-3 through the new rulemaking process could likely prove beneficial to the commercial space industry. California Federal Court Declares Drones are Aircraft [Alert] January 18, 2019 William Walsh discusses the decision in Philadelphia Indemnity Insurance Company v. Hollycal Production, Inc and what it could mean for the future of drone law. The Safety and Comfort of Your Airline Seat [Forbes] January 07, 2019 David Heffernan, a member of the firm's Transportation & Trade Group and co-chair of the Aviation Industry Team, authored "The Safety and Comfort of Your Airline Seat" for Forbes. United States and United Kingdom Conclude Major New Bilateral Air Transport Agreement [Alert] December 11, 2018 Mark W. Atwood and Robert F. Foster discuss the smooth transition of post-Brexit air transport rights for the U.S.-UK trans-Atlantic market, which traditionally has been the busiest sector for air traffic between the United States and Europe as a whole. U.S. Airlines Face A Critical Legislative And Regulatory Test In 2019 November 28, 2018 David Heffernan, co-chair of the firm's Aviation Team, authored the blog "U.S. Airlines Face A Critical Legislative and Regulatory Test in 2019" for Forbes. 'Comfort Animals' Do Not Belong In An Aircraft Cabin; Regulators May Act Soon To Address The Problem November 13, 2018 David Heffernan, co-chair of the firm's Aviation Team, authored the blog "'Comfort Animals' Do Not Belong In An Aircraft Cabin; Regulators May Act Soon To Address The Problem" for Forbes. Split Third Circuit Decision Revives Claims Arising From Fatal 2005 Cessna Crash November 09, 2018 Robert L. Bowman and Robert F. Foster discuss the Third Circuit's decision in Sikkelee v. Precision Airmotive Corp., that held state-law claims brought against an aircraft engine manufacturer were not conflict preempted by federal law. This decision places equipment manufacturers and other defendants at greater risk of being held liable for state law-based accident claims and other related cases. FAA Reauthorization Briefing Part 3: Consumer Protection [Aviation Alert] October 11, 2018 David Heffernan and Robert F. Foster discuss provisions in the Reauthorization Act that affect air travelers. This is the third article in a three-part series on the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 FAA Reauthorization Briefing Part 2: Disability-Related Passenger Rights [Aviation Alert] October 11, 2018 David Heffernan and Robert F. Foster discuss provisions in the Reauthorization Act that affect airlines’ obligations to accommodate passengers with disabilities. This is the second in a three-part series discussing the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018. FAA Reauthorization Briefing Part 1: Airline Fee Issues [Aviation Alert] October 11, 2018 David Heffernan and Matthew Howell discuss provisions in the Reauthorization Act that affect airline fees, including some that were omitted from the final legislation but will likely continue to be considered in the future. This is the first in a three-part series on the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 Time To Curb Abuse Of Air Travel 'Support Animal' Rules [Law360] August 13, 2018 David Heffernan and Robert Foster, attorneys in the firm's Aviation Regulatory Practice, co-authored, "Time To Curb Abuse Of Air Travel 'Support Animal' Rules," for Law360. Could Criminal Penalties for Negligent Drone Operations Extend to Corporations? [Aviation Alert] May 24, 2018 Bill Walsh discusses why criminalization of negligent drone operation could negatively impact ICAO's and the United States' goal of transparency in aircraft accident investigations. May 2018 Update on Significant DOT, FAA and Other Federal Agencies’ Aviation-Related Regulatory Actions [Aviation Regulatory Update] May 04, 2018 This edition of the Cozen O’Connor Aviation Regulatory Update discusses the U.S. House of Representatives’ passage of a five-year Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization bill, the FAA’s Airworthiness Directives requiring inspections of fan blades on CFM56-7B model engines as a result of last month’s Southwest Airlines engine incident, the Department of Transportation’s recent award of frequencies for new U.S.-Cuba air service, new DOT requirements for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS)/drones to obtain DOT economic authority in the form of a Part 298 air taxi registration in order for commercial UAS/drone operators to operate air transportation services for hire, the Department of Homeland Security’s increase in the amount of civil penalties imposed by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), the Government Accountability Office’s implementation of new electronic filing requirements for bid protests, and the latest DOT and FAA enforcement actions. FAA’s Automated UAS Approval System — A Significant Step Forward [Aviation Alert] March 19, 2018 Bill Walsh discusses the FAA's LAANC system, next steps in implementing it nationwide, and how this will impact the drone industry and lead to the day of the drones. States Rev Up Drone Oversight [The Drone Report] February 06, 2018 This edition of the Cozen O’Connor Drone Report surveys proposed drone legislation in Florida, Illinois, Indiana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Vermont, and West Virginia and discusses recent drone regulatory developments at the federal level. Drone Advisory Group Raising Regulation Questions [Aviation Alert] November 08, 2017 Bill Walsh discusses a recent article in the Washington Post and its implications for the Drone industry. October 2017 Update on Significant DOT, FAA and Other Federal Agencies’ Aviation-Related Regulatory Actions October 13, 2017 This edition of the Cozen O’Connor Aviation Regulatory Update discusses DOT’s and CBP’s comprehensive reviews of their regulations, Congress’ FAA reauthorization extension legislation, the FAA’s adoption of new Stage 5 airplane noise standards, GAO reports on airline ancillary service fees and TSA’s aviation security oversight, and the latest DOT and FAA enforcement actions. Government Agency Action Accelerates On Drone Operations [The Drone Report] September 12, 2017 This edition of the Cozen O’Connor Drone Report discusses FAA’s statement on the success of Part 107 (its regulations governing commercial uses of small drones), the status of drone-related rulemakings, DOD’s guidance on drone operations over military installations, the new partnership between DHS and Mississippi to test and evaluate drones, pending federal drone legislation, Federal citations for drone use in Yellowstone National Park, and proposed legislation in California related to the use of drones for law enforcement surveillance. September 2017 Update on Significant DOT, FAA and Other Federal Agencies’ Aviation-Related Regulatory Actions September 08, 2017 This edition of the Cozen O’Connor Aviation Regulatory Update discusses DOT’s 2017 U.S.-Cuba Frequency Allocation Proceeding, the FAA’s elimination of requirements to obtain Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) authorization for aircraft equipped with Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast (ADS–B) Out systems, CBP’s extension of the Air Cargo Advance Screening (ACAS) pilot program, and the latest DOT and FAA enforcement actions. Drone Risks Create New Legal Challenges September 01, 2017 William Walsh, a member of the firm's Aviation Litigation Practice, authored, "Drone Risks Create New Legal Challenges," for Risk Management Magazine. Waves of Regulation Hit the Drone Industry [The Drone Report] July 25, 2017 This edition of the Cozen O’Connor Drone Report discusses the unmanned aircraft systems (UAS)/drone-related provisions of the recently introduced FAA reauthorization bills, a recent FAA chief counsel’s legal interpretation regarding drone operations near private heliports, the Department of the Interior’s data-sharing initiative to prevent unauthorized drone operations over wildfires, the Drone I.D. Rulemaking Committee’s recent meetings, a recent judicial proceeding on the GoPro drone case, President Trump’s offer to sell drones to India as part of the joint “Prosperity Through Partnership” initiative measure between the United States and India, and the latest state regulations and legislation regarding drones. July 2017 Update on Significant DOT, FAA and Other Federal Agencies’ Aviation-Related Regulatory Actions July 10, 2017 This edition of the Cozen O’Connor Aviation Regulatory Update discusses the latest FAA reauthorization bills, the Department of Homeland Security’s enhanced aviation security measures, the DOT Inspector General’s audit reports regarding the FAA’s oversight of suspected unapproved parts and check pilot qualifications, the Department of Commerce’s investigations regarding aircraft imports from Canada, and the latest DOT and FAA enforcement actions. US Regulation of Commercial Uses of Drones July 06, 2017 David Heffernan and Jennifer Urban, of Cozen O'Connor's Transportation and Trade Group, published "US Regulation of Commercial Uses of Drones" for Expert Guides. FAA and Congress Move Forward with Drone Oversight [The Drone Report] June 23, 2017 Jennifer Urban and Rachael Wallace discuss the D.C. Circuit Court’s recent decision against the FAA’s registration requirements for recreational drones, the latest findings and recommendations of the FAA’s Drone Advisory Committee, FAA Administrator Huerta’s recent statement on drone safety, and the introduction of the Drone Federalism Act of 2017 in the U.S. Senate. May 2017 Update on Significant DOT, FAA and Other Federal Agencies’ Aviation-Related Regulatory Actions May 08, 2017 This edition of the Cozen O’Connor Aviation Regulatory Update discusses the FAA’s regulatory reform review, the FAA’s and PHMSA’s increases in civil penalty amounts, recent amendments of hazardous materials regulations, the Congressional oversight hearing on U.S. airlines’ customer service and contracts of carriage, and the latest DOT and FAA enforcement actions. Congress Should Resist Legislating in Reaction to United Airlines’ Recent Passenger Bumping Incident [Aviation Alert] April 26, 2017 David Heffernan discusses why the recent incident on United Airlines was an anomaly and not evidence of the need for additional legislation or regulations with industry-wide effect. Drones: The Sky is no Longer the Limit for Water/Sewer Systems [PAAWWA] April 24, 2017 David Heffernan, Michael Klein and Jennifer Urban discuss how drones will revolutionize the way water and sewer systems operate and the legal restrictions that accompany this new practice. March 2017 Update on Significant DOT, FAA and Other Federal Agencies’ Aviation-Related Regulatory Actions March 31, 2017 This edition of the Cozen O’Connor Aviation Regulatory Update discusses DOT’s tentative award of Mexico City slots, DHS/TSA’s prohibitions on the in-cabin carriage of certain personal electronic devices on nonstop flights to the U.S. from ten Middle Eastern and North African airports, DOT’s withdrawal and compliance deadline extensions for various consumer protection-related rules, GAO reports on the status of DHS’s biometric air exit system and FAA certification processes for aviation products, President Trump’s executive order on the reorganization of executive branch agencies, and the latest DOT and FAA enforcement actions. President Trump’s Anti-Regulation Policy Could Undermine Aviation Industry [Aviation Daily] February 14, 2017 David Heffernan and Jennifer Urban of the Aviation Regulatory group discuss current issues in aviation, due to the change in administration. February 2017 Update on Significant DOT, FAA and Other Federal Agencies’ Aviation-Related Regulatory Actions February 13, 2017 This edition discusses DOT’s final approval of antitrust immunity for Delta Air Lines and Aeromexico, DOT’s proceeding to reallocate some of Delta/Aeromexico’s Mexico City and JFK slots to other airlines, DOT’s proposed rule to require airlines and ticket agents to disclose baggage fees, the FAA’s final rule amending small aircraft airworthiness standards, new DOT training materials for airlines and their employees and contractors regarding compliance with Part 382 disabled passenger regulations, DHS’s increase of certain aviation-related civil penalties for violations of immigration and TSA rules, GAO criticism of U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s predeparture programs, and the latest DOT and FAA enforcement actions. How President Trump’s Anti-Regulation Policy Could Undermine Aviation Industry Interests [Aviation Alert] February 06, 2017 David Heffernan and Jennifer Urban discuss how President Trump's recent executive order “Reducing Regulation and Controlling Regulatory Costs,” and anti-regulation policy generally, could impact the aviation industry. Perspectives: Commercial Use of Drones Could be Grounded by Costs [Business Insurance] January 02, 2017 William Walsh, co-chair of the Aviation Industry Team, discusses the significant tension between the Federal Aviation Administration regulation for commercial drones and any conceivable economic model of a profitable retail drone delivery operation. December 2016 Update on Significant DOT, FAA and Other Federal Agencies’ Aviation-Related Regulatory Actions December 14, 2016 This edition discusses DOT’s proposed rule on the use of cell phones to make voice calls on commercial flights, the results of DOT’s negotiated rulemaking on accessible in-flight entertainment and accessible lavatories on single-aisle aircraft to accommodate disabled passengers, DOT’s approval of Norwegian Air International’s foreign air carrier permit, the FAA’s increase of overflight fees, PHMSA amendments to the Hazardous Materials Regulations, the DOT Inspector General’s audit report on FAA oversight of unmanned aircraft/drones and initiation of an audit of the FAA’s oversight of runway safety, DOT’s updated enforcement policy regarding extended tarmac delays, DOT’s denial of American Airlines and Qantas Airways’ request for antitrust immunity, the Justice Department’s clearance of the Alaska Airlines-Virgin America merger, and the latest DOT and FAA enforcement actions. EVENTS & SEMINARS Past Events Forum on Air & Space Law 2021 September 30, 2021 - Webinar New York State Bar Association's Aviation Sector Panel March 24, 2021 - Webinar ABA Forum on Air & Space Law’s Annual Conference 2020 September 09, 2020 - Webinar Cancellation of Flights due to COVID-19: Substantive and Private International Law Issues July 01, 2020 - Webinar NYC Bar Aeronautics Committee's Hot Topics in Aviation October 24, 2019 - New York, NY 2019 Forum on Air & Space Annual Conference September 12, 2019 - Seattle, WA Trends in Aviation Litigation and Reflections on Boeing Liability for the 737 MAX Crashes August 22, 2019 - WEBINAR 25th Annual National Institute on Aviation Litigation June 13, 2019 - New York, NY 45th Annual Pacific Northwest Aviation Law & Insurance Conference October 26, 2018 - Union, WA Hot Topics in Aviation October 23, 2018 - New York, NY 2018 IATA Legal Symposium February 28, 2018 - Bangkok, Thailand Drones ... Toy, Tool or Tort? January 25, 2018 - Philadelphia, PA US Corporate Aviation Summit November 17, 2017 - Washington, D.C. U.S. Regulation of the Airline Industry November 10, 2017 - Webinar Dublin Aircraft Leasing: A Guide to Successful Negotiations October 30, 2017 - Dublin, Ireland Washington, D.C. Aircraft Leasing: A Guide to Successful Negotiations October 20, 2017 - Washington, D.C. DVIRC 6th Annual Greater Philadelphia Manufacturing Summit October 13, 2017 - Drexel Hill, PA Webinar: Drones in the Shale Patch and Water World: A Primer for Energy Companies, Water Systems, and their Operations and Legal Departments September 19, 2017 - Webinar 5th USCAS US Corporate Aviation Summit June 29, 2017 - Washington, D.C. Aircraft Leasing: A Guide to Successful Negotiations June 08, 2017 - Washington, D.C. PA AWWA 69th Annual Conference April 25, 2017 - Hershey, PA IATA Legal Symposium 2017 February 21, 2017 - Washington, D.C. Webinar: Cybersecurity in the Transportation Industry: Preparing for the Onslaught by Hackers and Regulators January 19, 2017 - Webinar IN THE NEWS Legal 500 Recognizes Six Cozen O’Connor Practice Areas and 12 Cozen O'Connor Attorneys in its 2021 Legal Guide June 17, 2021 The Legal 500 United States named Cozen O’Connor’s Aviation, Construction, Immigration, Insurance, and Maritime practices and Cozen O’Connor attorneys Scott Bettridge, Raymond DeLuca, Geoffrey Ferrer, Bruce Ficken, David Heffernan, Jeffrey Lawrence, Robert Magovern, Anne Mickey, Jeffrey Mullen, Josh Stein, Jeff Vogel, and Rachel Welford to its 2021 Legal Guide. Cozen O’Connor Enhances its Aviation Practice with the Addition of Jonathon Foglia June 01, 2021 He brings extensive experience counseling aviation industry clients on a wide range of regulatory and commercial matters. Legal 500 Recognizes Six Cozen O’Connor Practice Areas and 13 Cozen O'Connor Attorneys in its 2020 Legal Guide June 22, 2020 The Legal 500 United States named Cozen O’Connor’s Aviation, Construction, Immigration, Insurance, and Maritime practices and Cozen O’Connor attorneys Scott Bettridge, Stephen Cozen, Raymond DeLuca, Geoffrey Ferrer, Bruce Ficken, David Heffernan, Jeffrey Lawrence, Robert Magovern, Anne Mickey, Jeffrey Mullen, Josh Stein, Christopher Sweeney, and Jeff Vogel to its 2020 Legal Guide. US Regulator Grants Exemption for Drone Flight During Lockdown [Financial Times] April 22, 2020 Bill Walsh was quoted in an article in the Financial Times titled, "US Regulator Grants Exemption for Drone Flight During Lockdown." This article discusses a new coronavirus-related waiver for drone flight which allows an oil and gas company in Houston, TX to use unmanned aircraft instead of humans to inspect its facilities while the staff remains in lockdown. Legal 500 Recognizes Six Cozen O'Connor Practice Areas and Nine Cozen O'Connor Attorneys in its 2019 Legal Guide June 14, 2019 The Legal 500 United States named Cozen O’Connor’s Aviation, Construction, Immigration, Insurance, and Maritime practices and Cozen O'Connor attorneys Scott Bettridge, Raymond DeLuca, Geoffrey Ferrer, Bruce Ficken, David Heffernan, Jeffrey Lawrence, Robert Magovern, Anne Mickey, and Jeffrey Mullen to its 2019 Legal Guide. 13 Cozen O'Connor Attorneys Recognized as Washington, D.C. Super Lawyers and Rising Stars April 25, 2019 The 2019 Washington, D.C, edition of Super Lawyers Magazine, published by Thomson Reuters, has named 13 Cozen O’Connor attorneys to its list of Super Lawyers and Rising Stars. 57 Cozen O’Connor Lawyers, 16 Practices Earn Top Recognition in Chambers USA 2019 Guide April 25, 2019 Chambers USA, the leading annual guide to the top lawyers and law firms in the USA, has ranked 57 Cozen O’Connor lawyers as leaders in their respective fields in the Guide’s 2019 edition. Aviation Industry Attorney Rachel Welford Returns to Cozen O’Connor’s Transportation and Trade Group April 08, 2019 Rachel Welford has returned to the firm’s Transportation & Trade Group. She joins Cozen O’Connor from American Airlines, where she served as the director of security and government affairs. Three Practice Areas and Six Attorneys Recommended by The U.S. Edition of The Legal 500 June 15, 2018 The U.S. edition of The Legal 500 recognized Cozen O’Connor’s Aviation, Construction, and Shipping practices as well as attorneys Geoffrey Ferrer, Bruce Ficken, David Heffernan, Jeffrey Lawrence, Robert Magovern, and Anne Mickey. A JetBlue Passenger Wanted 'Ice.' A Flight Attendant Misheard 'ISIS!' May 27, 2018 Chris Kende, of Cozen O'Connor's Global Insurance department, was quoted in an Inc.com article A JetBlue Passenger Wanted 'Ice.' A Flight Attendant Misheard 'ISIS!'. Fifty Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Ranked by Chambers USA 2018 May 21, 2018 Cozen O’Connor is pleased to announce that Chambers USA has recognized 50 Cozen O’Connor attorneys for 2018 as leaders in their respective fields; 12 attorneys were recognized nationally and 14 were ranked in the top band either nationally or at the state level. Southwest Airlines Passengers Looking to Lawyer Up After Emergency Landing [Daily Business Review] April 18, 2018 Christopher Kende, of Cozen O'Connor's Global Insurance department, was quoted in the article, "Southwest Airlines Passengers Looking to Lawyer Up After Emergency Landing." Freeman and Heffernan named to JD Supra 2018 Readers Choice Awards Top Airlines/Aviation Authors April 13, 2018 David Heffernan, a member of Cozen O’Connor Transportation and Trade Practice Group, and Rob Freeman, a government relations principal in Cozen O’Connor’s Public Strategies Group, were named to JD Supra 2018 Readers Choice Awards Top Airlines/Aviation Authors. Deja Vu for Airlines, Cruise Lines as Hurricane Maria Prep Begins September 20, 2017 Mark Atwood, of the firm's Transporation and Trade Group, was quoted in the Sun Sentinel's article, "Deja vu for airlines, cruise lines as Hurricane Maria prep begins." Days after Irma hits, South Florida airports, hotels, cruise lines look for return of customers September 15, 2017 Mark Atwood, a member of the firm's Transportation and Trade Practice Group, was quoted in the Sun Sentinel's article, "Days after Irma hits, South Florida airports, hotels, cruise lines look for return of customers." Microsoft Makes VR Drone Fight Simulator Available on GitHub February 21, 2017 William Walsh discusses drones and the need for training and safety testing in LinuxInsider. CONTACTS David Heffernan Vice Chair, Transportation & Trade dheffernan@cozen.com (202) 463-2537 Mark W. Atwood Member matwood@cozen.com (202) 463-2513 William H. Walsh Member wwalsh@cozen.com (206) 224-1296 PEOPLE Richard F. Allen Of Counsel Seattle Mark W. Atwood Member Washington, D.C. Robert L. Bowman Member Seattle Vadim Braginsky Counsel Minneapolis Evan B. Caplan Member Philadelphia Patrick L. Carey Principal, Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies Chicago Jonathan Echmalian Senior Aviation Adviser Washington, D.C. Elliott R. Feldman Co-Chair, Subrogation & Recovery Department Philadelphia Jonathon H. Foglia Member Washington, D.C. Tia C. Ghattas Member Chicago Jonathan M. Grossman Co-Chair, Antitrust Washington, D.C. Steven N. Haas Member Philadelphia David Heffernan Vice Chair, Transportation & Trade Washington, D.C. Matthew J. Howell Associate Washington, D.C. Anusha E. Jones Member Seattle William K. Kirrane Member New York Kenan G. Loomis Member Atlanta Karl Neumann Associate Seattle Neil Quartaro Member New York Christopher Raleigh Member New York Peter E. Swain Member Santa Monica William H. Walsh Member Seattle Edward M. Weisz Co-Chair, Patent Prosecution Practice New York Rachel Welford Associate Washington, D.C. AWARDS Legal 500 Recognizes Six Cozen O’Connor Practice Areas and 12 Cozen O'Connor Attorneys in its 2021 Legal Guide RELATED PRACTICE AREAS Aviation Litigation Aviation Regulatory Product Regulatory & Compliance Transportation & Trade Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) / Drones Keep up-to-date with the latest Aviation news from Cozen O'Connor Enter your City or Zip. SIGN ME UP Sign up to receive alerts, publications, and event / webinar invites. By submitting your contact information, you are giving Cozen O'Connor consent to contact you via email. Full Service International Law Firm Learn More EXPERIENCE ALUMNI BLOGS & PODCASTS CLE PROGRAMS SUBSCRIBE TO PUBLICATIONS Affiliates COZEN O’CONNOR PUBLIC STRATEGIES MARGOLIS HEALY NATIONAL SUBROGATION SERVICES Privacy Policy | Disclaimer | Attorney Advertising