Simon Phippard

I am Of Counsel in our Aviation & Aerospace practice in London. I bring more than 30 years' commercial and litigious experience to a diverse array of aerospace issues.

Having learned to fly before I could drive a car, I've been lucky to have worked for most of my career in aviation law. I advise leading businesses in all parts of the aerospace sector, including airlines, manufacturers, MROs, airports, ATC operators and regulators.

I help clients to navigate and comply with international, European and domestic technical and economic regulation affecting the aviation sector, including the use of innovative technology and artificial intelligence.

Before joining Bird & Bird in 2013, I worked for seven years at Rolls-Royce, where I was closely involved in their engine aftermarket services. Much of my work involves complex long-term contracts between airlines, suppliers and MROs for equipment support. This frequently includes engines and other systems on the aircraft which employ innovative data-based methods of performance management and predictive maintenance. Many of these transfer significant cost and reliability risk transfer to the supplier.

I have a particular interest in unmanned aerial systems and advise on technical regulation, commercial, liability and insurance, and supply chain issues in this emerging sector. Recent instructions have involved advice to a number of technology clients on the use of counter-UAS technology.

I have also worked in anti-bribery and corruption compliance, and continue to advise clients on the establishment and operation of compliance programmes and on investigations into suspected misconduct.

I am a Fellow and former Council Member of the Royal Aeronautical Society and a Liveryman of, and Honorary Solicitor to, the Honourable Company of Air Pilots.

I regularly speak at industry events and contribute to debate on a wide range of timely topics, including airline passenger protection, drones and aftermarket service solutions. I have chaired a number of panels on the impact of Brexit on the aviation industry.