W+K debuts aviation practice with Clyde & Co lawyer

James Cooper has worked on major airline incidents like MH370 and MH17

W+K debuts aviation practice with Clyde & Co lawyer
James Cooper

Wotton + Kearney (W+K) has debuted an aviation practice with the appointment of Clyde & Co lawyer James Cooper as special counsel.

Cooper focuses on aviation, maritime and energy law. He has handled contentious and non-contentious matters, and his client base includes airlines and insurers.

He has been involved in issues related to major airline incidents, such as the disappearance of Malaysia Airlines flights MH370 and MH17, as well as the in-flight incidents involving Qantas flights QF30 and QF72. He has tackled litigation concerning major airline losses, leasing disputes, general aviation, and claims related to personal injury, hull, cargo, and baggage.

Cooper has advised on regulatory, commercial, and compliance issues in aviation, with a particular focus on emerging challenges in drone technology.

"James brings a unique skillset to the firm and is an exciting addition to our existing transport practice. He has a wealth of experience across the sector, and is highly regarded in Australia and New Zealand and across the Asia-Pacific and London markets", said Adam Chylek, head of property, energy and infrastructure at W+K.

Cooper noted that his specialist experience in aviation “fits neatly alongside the firm’s insurance and risk focus”.

Cooper works from W+K’s Melbourne office.