David M. Hernandez

David M. Hernandez provides practical, end-to-end counsel, helping aviation industry clients navigate aircraft acquisitions, audits and disputes.

Repeatedly recognized as a leader in his field, he manages all aspects of aviation transactions and financings, regulatory compliance, risk assessment, government investigations and enforcement defense.

Clients ranging from Fortune 500 companies, high-net-worth individuals, governments, corporate flight departments, and charter operators to some of the world's largest airlines and aerospace manufacturers, defense contractors, and airports seek David's help in managing their aviation transactions from inception to post-close operations, as well as their regulatory matters. His experience spans aircraft selection, deal due diligence, broker selection, contractual and management agreements, documentation, tax planning, use policies, inspection and closing processes, and dispute resolution.

David has significant experience resolving aircraft operational issues, financing, leasing and regulatory matters, complex government investigations, aircraft and part certifications, and FAA, DOT, BIS/OFAC, IRS and SEC enforcement matters. He is also well-versed in cross-border aviation/aerospace matters, including tariffs, export controls, international sanctions, transactions and international disputes. Over the course of his career, David has handled more than 1,000 successful transactions and has crafted solutions that meet his clients’ short and long-term objectives. He has also resolved several complex government enforcement matters, tax audits and investigations.

A former FAA prosecutor and U.S. DOT Honors Program attorney, David combines exceptional critical thinking and crisis management skills with a clear understanding and working knowledge of the many regulations and regulatory processes impacting the aviation community. He was a Captain in the U.S. Air Force during the Gulf War and currently chairs Vedder’s Business Aviation and Regulation Sub-Practice. David frequently speaks and writes about emerging regulatory and transactional issues in aviation.

Experience

• Successfully negotiated on behalf of clients with Gulfstream and Bombardier for the flagship Gulfstream G800 and Bombardier Global 7500/8000 new acquisitions.
• Assisted several clients with aircraft transaction processes, including broker and management company selection, agreement negotiations and all related financing aspects.
• Resolved an aircraft manufacturer dispute arising from damage to the client's aircraft that occurred when the manufacturer was performing scheduled maintenance.
• Ensured maximum utilization and efficiencies in the aircraft operational planning process for several family offices.
• Handled all corporate and due diligence matters for various clients that paved the way for their successful acquisition of aerospace parts manufacturers, repair stations and air carriers, and public listing, handling all corporate and due diligence matters.
• Successfully represented clients before the FAA, SEC and IRS in connection with audits, enforcement actions and investigations.