Certificate in Aviation Leasing and Finance

Programme structure and approach to learning

Ireland is internationally recognised as the global hub for aviation leasing and finance, with 14 of the top 15 global aircraft lessors enjoying a presence here. More than 60% of the world’s fleet of leased aircraft is owned, leased, or managed in Ireland. The major industry players have been attracted by Ireland’s stable political regime, membership of the EU, favourable time zone, and talented workforce – not to mention our legal and regulatory advantages. In addition, Ireland’s network of over 70 double tax treaties, combined with the absence of withholding tax on aircraft lease rentals, makes Ireland a commercially attractive place to set up and run an aircraft leasing company.

This certificate provides comprehensive coverage of the key aspects of the aviation leasing and finance industry. It aims to deliver an in-depth analysis of the core legal and practical issues that parties typically encounter in aircraft leasing and finance transactions. It will address the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and how the industry has changed as a result.

Modules

The programme is based on the following module scheme and covers key themes as listed below:

Module 1: Aviation Industry

• Profile of the Irish aviation industry,
• Development of industry,
• Reasons why Ireland is an aviation hub,
• Overview of tax and regulatory advantages.

Module 2: Aircraft leasing

• Types of aircraft leases,
• Key issues for lessors and lessees,
• Lease structures,
• Pre-lease investigation and structuring,
• Aircraft operating lease agreement,
• Main lease terms.

Module 3: Aviation financing

• Types of finance and security,
• Debt and structured finance,
• Use of Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs),
• Mortgages, guarantees, charges, assignments,
• Structure and finance key documents.

Module 4: Key technical issues

• Aircraft delivery,
• Lease management,
• Maintenance reserve management,
• Maintenance claims,
• Lease transitions,
• Engine leasing – maintenance, records, security.

Module 5: Regulatory environment

• Role of Irish Aviation Authority,
• International regulation,
• The Chicago Convention, ICAO, IATA,
• The Cape Town Convention,
• European Aviation Safety Agency Regulations,
• EU Emissions Trading Scheme.

Module 6: Taxation and Aviation

• Importance of Irish tax residence,
• Depreciation, capital allowances,
• Double taxation treaties,
• Access to 12.5% rate,
• Withholding tax.

Module 7: Insurance and Aviation

• Relevant insurance principles,
• Airline aviation insurances,
• Lease insurance provisions,
• Lessor considerations,
• Claims management.

Module 8: Career Panel event

The careers panel offers participants an opportunity to get expert advice from industry professionals about gaining entry to the aviation industry or how to successfully move sectors within the industry. This event will take place online.

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