Applications are now open for the Law Society of Ireland’s Certificate in Aviation Leasing and Finance. Commencing on 26th September, the course is predominantly delivered online and is open to all suitably qualified professionals, including those from non-legal backgrounds. The certificate explores the aviation leasing industry from a legal, financial and technical perspective, and prior knowledge or experience in aviation is not required.
Ireland is recognised internationally 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. This has created significant career opportunities across the financial and legal sectors over recent decades, and landmark aviation cases in the commercial court earlier this year demonstrate the potential for continued growth relating to international commercial litigation in Ireland, in particular.
Since 2014, the Law Society has equipped over 600 professionals with essential skills in Ireland’s growing aviation sector through this certificate which is a standalone qualification and can also act as a pathway to the Law Society’s award-winning Diploma in Aviation Leasing and Finance.
The course is open to suitably qualified professionals with an interest in aviation and attracts people with diverse career backgrounds. Three-quarters of past participants were from sectors other than the law. Given the predominantly online nature of the course, it also attracts applications from overseas, with 22% of the past participants from countries outside of Ireland, including Australia, Singapore, the UAE, India , China and the USA.
Participants will benefit from expert insights from global industry leaders. Key modules include Aviation Industry, Aircraft Leasing, Aviation Financing, Technical Issues, Regulatory Environment, Taxation, and Insurance. All lectures are delivered online over the course of 10 weeks, with an option to attend on site for a small number of sessions, if desired.
Claire O’Mahony, Head of the Law Society Diploma Centre, said: “Aviation leasing is a rapidly growing field in Ireland, and the Law Society is proud to offer award-winning courses in this area. The Law Society Certificate in Aviation Leasing and Finance provides an excellent introduction for anyone interested in a career in this sector. For those without a legal background, it serves as a stepping stone to our acclaimed Diploma in Aviation Leasing. While not mandatory for a career in the sector, the diploma offers significant value, and I’ve seen participants gain a clear career advantage. Feedback from the certificate course has been overwhelmingly positive, with participants enhancing their skills and expanding their career opportunities and industry connections.”
Kirk Malahy, Vice President, Legal Leasing, AerCap and guest lecturer on the course, said: “Having worked with the Irish aircraft leasing industry over the past two decades, I had the privilege in the early part of my career of working with some of the founders of that industry going back to the 1970s and 1980s when Shannon had transformed into a hub for transatlantic travel and aviation expertise. Ireland is now firmly established as a leader in the sector and the Law Society run the best courses for those serious about advancing in this field. I’ve been teaching the certificate and diploma for nearly a decade and what makes the certificate unique is its ability to help you step back and analyse real-world scenarios and focus on the crucial area of relationship-building in the industry. This course consistently empowers individuals to excel, building their confidence, independence, and industry knowledge.”
Applications close on 24 September 2024. For more information on how to apply, please visit www.lawsociety.ie.
