Thomson Reuters names eight Keystone Law partners in its Stand-out Lawyers Guide 2026
Andrea James, Andrew Darwin & Anna McKibbin
Chris is an asset finance partner who specialises in domestic and cross-border asset finance and leasing transactions. He has particular expertise in aircraft and engine leasing and trading, structured finance, and sales finance. He also advises on the procurement of aviation assets and on after-market support programs offered by manufacturers.
Chris’ clients include leasing companies, banks, private equity investors, airlines, and other aviation businesses seeking advice on complex aviation finance matters.
Chris is also experienced working in-house, having previously held roles with Rolls-Royce and the Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi.
Chris advises leasing companies, banks, private equity investors, airlines and other aviation businesses on all aspects of aircraft and engine leasing (including operating leases, finance leases, and other structured leasing products (such as Japanese operating leases), sub-leasing arrangements, and lease restructurings).
Experience
Chris advises leasing companies, banks, private equity investors, airlines, and other aviation businesses on aircraft and engine sales and acquisitions (including corporate acquisitions, sale-and-leasebacks, and portfolio sales and purchases).
Experience
Chris advises leasing companies, banks, private equity investors, airlines, and other aviation businesses on financings relating to the acquisition and ownership of aircraft, engines, and other aviation assets (including secured debt facilities, private placements, and loan portfolio due diligence).
Experience
Chris advises leasing companies, banks, private equity investors, airlines, and other aviation businesses on all aspects of aviation finance and leasing (including lease disputes, insurance claims, and manufacturer support programs).
Experience
Chris advises leasing companies, banks, private equity investors, airlines, and other aviation businesses on all aspects of aircraft and engine leasing and trading, structured finance, and sales finance.
Experience
Please note: The experience list above may include examples of work completed prior to joining Keystone Law.
Recognised by Chambers UK for Asset Finance: Aviation Finance 2017–2025
Member of The International Society of Transport Aircraft Trading (ISTAT)
“He has a deep knowledge of aviation financing law, with an ability to handle complex transactions.”
Chambers UK 2025
“Chris is really knowledgeable and is so approachable and easy to deal with. A pleasure to work with on all transactions.”
Chambers UK 2025
Chris qualified as a solicitor in 1998. Prior to joining Keystone Law in 2025, he worked at the following firms: