The recently concluded Conference on International Aviation + Space Financing Law, organized by the McGill Institute of Air and Space Law and the National University of Singapore's Centre for Banking and Finance Law, proved to be a great success. Held in the vibrant city of Singapore, this conference brought together an array of stakeholders from both academia and practice to explore the challenges, changes, and innovations in the field. The event was highly anticipated and garnered significant attention from experts in the aviation and space financing sectors.
The conference featured a thought-provoking keynote lecture delivered by Prof. Maria Chiara Malaguti, President of UNIDROIT. Her lecture explored the key challenges and developments within the Cape Town Regime, providing valuable insights into the evolving landscape of this field. Prof. Malaguti's expertise and knowledge set the tone for the engaging discussions that followed throughout the conference.
In addition to the keynote lecture, the conference included a special presentation titled "Frontiers of International Asset Finance: Drones, Spaceships, and the Cape Town Convention." This presentation was delivered by Mr. Stefan-Michael Wedenig, the Executive Director of the Institute and Centre of Air and Space Law, and Mr. Jack Wright Nelson, Editor of the Annals of Air and Space Law. Their insightful discussion delved into the implications of new technologies and the relevance of the Cape Town Convention in the context of international asset finance. The presentation provided attendees with further perspectives on the cutting-edge developments in the field.
The Conference attracted a diverse range of participants, including legal professionals, academics, industry experts, and government representatives. This varied mix of stakeholders fostered dynamic conversations and provided a broad perspective on the challenges and opportunities in aviation and space financing law.
Throughout the event, a series of thematic panels and interactive sessions covered topics such as regulatory frameworks, financing trends, emerging technologies, and the role of international conventions. Experts from around the world presented their research findings and shared their practical experiences, offering valuable insights into the evolving legal landscape of aviation and space financing.
We extend our (heartfelt) gratitude to the National University of Singapore and the Centre for Banking and Finance Law led by Prof. Dora Neo, and her staff Sandra, Rowena and Jothi, for their invaluable support in co-hosting the conference. Further, we would like to thank our knowledgeable speakers and engaging moderators who kindly shared their expertise and lent their time valuable time to the conference. The Institute also highly appreciated the attendance of Mr. Dan Behar (First Officer and Trade Commissioner - Canadian High Commission to Singapore) and Mr. René Sylvestre (Chef de poste - Bureau du Québec Singapour)
Furthermore, special thanks are extended to Qatar Airways for their generous sponsorship, which made it possible to bring together such a diverse and distinguished group of participants. Their support played a pivotal role in ensuring the conference's success and furthering the dialogue on international aviation and space financing law.
"Conference proved to be an outstanding platform for exploring the challenges, changes, and innovations in this rapidly evolving field". Interim Director, Prof. Donal Hanley said. "With its diverse participant base, engaging discussions, and the exceptional keynote lecture by Prof. Maria Chiara Malaguti, the event has undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the aviation and space financing community. The successful collaboration between the McGill Institute of Air and Space Law and the National University of Singapore's Centre for Banking and Finance Law sets a good precedent for future collaboration" he added.
