Aviation Law in Greece

Aviation Law in Greece: Navigating Compliance with Expertise

Greece, with its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, plays a significant role in global aviation. The country’s comprehensive legal framework for aviation ensures safety, transparency, and compliance, creating an environment conducive to both commercial and private aviation ventures. Economou & Economou Law Office, widely recognized as the best aviation law firm in Greece, has a proven track record of guiding clients through the complexities of aviation law. From assisting companies in operating airlines to facilitating the acquisition and registration of private aircraft, the firm provides tailored legal solutions to meet diverse needs.

Understanding Aviation Law in Greece

Greek aviation law is governed by a combination of domestic regulations, European Union (EU) directives, and international agreements. The Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA) is the primary regulatory body overseeing all aviation activities, ensuring compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards and EU regulations. Whether the goal is to establish an airline, purchase a private jet, or operate aircraft in Greek airspace, businesses and individuals must adhere to stringent legal and regulatory requirements.

Key areas of aviation law in Greece include:

1. Aircraft Registration and Ownership

• The registration process involves compliance with the HCAA, which ensures that aircraft meet technical and operational standards.

• Greece offers an attractive framework for registering private jets, especially for owners from offshore jurisdictions.

• Ownership structures often involve leasing agreements through offshore entities for tax efficiency.

2. Airline Operations

• Operators must obtain an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the HCAA, demonstrating compliance with safety, maintenance, and operational requirements.

• Licensing procedures require compliance with EU Regulation 1008/2008, covering air carrier operating licenses.

3. Compliance with EU and ICAO Standards

• Greece, as an EU member state, adheres to strict safety and environmental standards. These include implementing the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) regulations.

• Private aircraft owners must ensure compliance with emissions and noise standards under EU and ICAO frameworks.

4. Leasing and Financing

• Leasing is a popular method for acquiring aircraft in Greece. Economou & Economou law office has extensive experience in structuring leasing agreements to minimize tax burdens and ensure compliance with Greek law.

Private Aircraft Operations in Greece

The demand for private jets in Greece has grown significantly, driven by the country’s thriving tourism industry and its appeal as a business hub. Owning and operating private aircraft, such as Learjets, requires careful navigation of legal and regulatory obligations.

Examples of Offshore Companies Operating Private Aircraft in Greece

Many offshore companies have successfully registered and operated private jets in Greece, leveraging the country’s robust legal framework and attractive tax incentives. For example:

• A prominent corporation based in the Cayman Islands registered its Learjet under Greek aviation laws to capitalize on Greece’s favorable maintenance and operation conditions. • A high-net-worth individual from Monaco established a Cypriot holding company to purchase and operate a Learjet for business and leisure purposes in Greek airspace.

• A British firm used a Maltese-registered special purpose vehicle (SPV) to lease a private jet in compliance with Greek and EU aviation laws.

These examples illustrate how offshore jurisdictions can seamlessly align with Greek aviation regulations, provided the right legal expertise is engaged.

Key Regulations for Compliance

Operating a private or commercial aircraft in Greece requires adherence to several critical regulations:

1. Aircraft Registration Requirements

• Private aircraft must be registered with the HCAA, which involves proving ownership or lease agreements and ensuring the aircraft meets safety standards.

• Aircraft registration is conducted under the Greek Aviation Register, which provides clear guidelines for foreign owners and offshore companies.

2. Tax and Customs Compliance

• Aircraft owners and operators must navigate the complexities of VAT, customs duties, and importation rules, particularly for aircraft entering Greece from non-EU jurisdictions.

• Economou & Economou specializes in structuring transactions to optimize tax liabilities.

3. Operational Approvals

• Flight approvals, airport slot allocations, and noise abatement procedures are regulated by the HCAA in alignment with ICAO standards.

4. Safety and Maintenance Compliance

• Regular inspections and adherence to EASA maintenance protocols are mandatory for all aircraft operating in Greek airspace.

5. Pilot Licensing and Crew Requirements

• Pilots and crew must possess valid licenses recognized under EU and ICAO standards. Training and certification must be kept up to date.

Why Choose Economou & Economou Law Office

Economou & Economou Law Office has cemented its reputation as the leading aviation law firm in Greece, providing unparalleled legal services to both domestic and international clients. Here’s why the firm stands out:

1. Comprehensive Expertise

• The firm handles every aspect of aviation law, from securing operational licenses to structuring cross-border aircraft acquisitions. • With in-depth knowledge of both Greek and international aviation law, the team ensures seamless compliance with all applicable regulations.

2. Specialization in Offshore Transactions

• Economou & Economou excels in structuring transactions involving offshore entities, ensuring tax efficiency and regulatory compliance.

• The firm has successfully assisted clients from countries such as Monaco, Malta, and the Cayman Islands in acquiring and operating aircraft in Greece.

3. Tailored Solutions for Airline Operations

• The firm provides end-to-end legal services for setting up airlines in Greece, including obtaining AOCs and complying with EU and ICAO standards.

4. Client-Centric Approach

• Economou & Economou prides itself on its personalized approach, delivering practical solutions that align with each client’s specific needs.

5. Proven Track Record

• The firm’s success stories include assisting multinational corporations, high-net-worth individuals, and aviation enterprises in navigating Greece’s regulatory landscape.

Recognized Excellence

Economou & Economou law office has been named one of the top aviation law offices in Greece, having the best aviation lawyers in Greece a testament to our commitment to quality, speed, and efficiency. By choosing our services, you gain access to some of the best aviation lawyers in the region, dedicated to helping you achieve your financial and corporate goals.

Secure your aviation future with Greece’s leading experts in capital market law. When you work with us, you don’t just hire a single lawyer—you gain the strength of our entire team. Many law offices handling similar cases assign your file to one lawyer who works alone. At our law office, your case is managed by a dedicated team, including a senior lawyer, partners, associates, and skilled support staff. We ensure every case is fully resourced, with the right expert handling each specific task. This collaborative approach means we’re all deeply committed to your case, constantly exchanging ideas and information to catch every detail. In short, we don’t just give you our best—we give you all of us, without any additional cost.

The Economou & Economou law office Advantage: Realizing Your Aviation Goals

Whether you’re an entrepreneur planning to launch an airline, an investor purchasing a private jet, or a business owner seeking to optimize your aircraft operations, Economou & Economou Law Office is your trusted partner. With extensive experience in aviation law, the firm provides expert guidance to help you navigate the complexities of Greek and international regulations.

Steps to Success with Economou & Economou law office in Athens Greece

1. Initial Consultation

• The process begins with a detailed consultation to understand your objectives, whether they involve aircraft acquisition, airline operations, or compliance matters.

2. Strategic Planning

• The firm develops a tailored legal strategy, ensuring alignment with Greek, EU, and international aviation laws.

3. Implementation and Compliance

• Economou & Economou law office handles all necessary filings, negotiations, and regulatory approvals, ensuring a smooth and compliant process.

4. Ongoing Support

• The firm provides continuous legal support, assisting with maintenance compliance, tax matters, and operational challenges.

5. Award-Winning Excellence

Recognized as one of the best law firms in Greece by Lawzana, we have a reputation for delivering outstanding results in insurance law and beyond. Our accolades are a testament to our hard work, integrity, and dedication to client success.

6. Multinational Expertise

As insurance disputes often involve international elements, our lawyers are fluent in multiple languages and well-versed in handling cross-border cases. We regularly assist clients from the UAE, USA, Canada, Australia, and across Europe.

Conclusion

Navigating the intricate landscape of aviation law in Greece requires specialized expertise and a deep understanding of both local and international regulations. Economou & Economou Law Office has established itself as the premier choice for clients seeking efficient, effective, and innovative legal solutions in this field.

From enabling offshore companies to own and operate private jets, such as Learjets, in Greece to facilitating airline operations and ensuring compliance with Greek aviation law, Economou & Economou law office consistently delivers exceptional results. If you’re looking to soar above the challenges of aviation law, let Economou & Economou guide your journey.

Contact Economou & Economou Law Office Today

• Email: econlaw@live.com

• Phone: (+30) 2103603824

• Contact Form

Your aviation ambitions deserve the best legal support. Choose Economou & Economou Law Office and secure your aviation future — Greece’s foremost aviation law experts.