Baker Donelson has added James Janaitis, an elite aviation attorney, to the Firm's Corporate Group.
Joining as a shareholder in Baker Donelson's Washington, D.C. office, Mr. Janaitis focuses on helping business aviation clients of all sizes and mission profiles navigate a variety of transactions and the complex regulatory challenges that come with owning, operating, and chartering aircraft. He also has extensive experience partnering with all types of aviation businesses including maintenance and repair facilities, aircraft leasing and financing companies, airport ground services providers, charter operators, aircraft management companies, aircraft parts manufacturers and sellers, fixed base operators, and companies acquiring targets that own aircraft or hold Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certificates.
Mary Ann Jackson, chair of Baker Donelson's Corporate Group, said, "Jim brings substantive experience in partnering with businesses and individuals in the sale, purchase, leasing, and financing of both new and used business aircraft and implementing ownership and operational structures designed specifically to meet the individual needs of his clients. He joins a dynamic aviation practice that includes attorneys who have served as inside and outside counsel to aviation companies, held executive level business positions in these companies, and are either practicing pilots themselves or have been in the past. We're exceptionally proud of the work we do in this area and are thrilled to welcome Jim to our team."
Prior to becoming an attorney, Mr. Janaitis had experience working with the FAA's legal department and a corporate aviation consulting firm. He has also worked in the safety department of two national airlines and has a private pilot's license with an instrument rating.
"An attorney with Jim's background is invaluable to our aviation clients," noted John McJunkin, managing shareholder of Baker Donelson's Washington, D.C. office. "His understanding of the industry, particularly as it relates to the intricate regulatory issues involved, is outstanding, and that level of knowledge is essential to successful business aviation operations. We're excited to have Jim as part of our Washington, D.C. office."