NAFA Conference–Napa Valley, CA–April 19-22

Aerlex Law Group President Stephen Hofer will attend the National Aircraft Finance Association’s (NAFA) annual conference, April 19th through April 22nd, at The Meritage Resort in Napa Valley, California. This year’s conference is NAFA’s 50th annual gathering, but the first time that aviation lenders and advisors have gathered in person in two years after the Covid-19 pandemic forced the organization to turn its 2020 conference into a virtual, online event.

Stephen Hofer has represented both borrowers and lenders in whole and fractional aircraft transactions for the past 30 years and he has successfully closed hundreds of sales and purchases on every continent except Antarctica, resulting in a deep and broad understanding of the wide range of issues that can affect the acquisition, sale and operation of private aircraft. In addition to aircraft transactions, Steve also has decades of experience with FAA and DOT regulatory matters, litigation in state and federal courts, charter operators and flight departments, aircraft maintenance issues and insurance requirements – all of which can directly impact the relationships among aircraft owners and operators, borrowers and lenders.

The annual NAFA conference offers members a chance to learn more about current industry trends relating to aircraft transactions, financing and leasing, as well as the broader national and international economic picture and its impact on the business aircraft financing industry. This year’s keynote speaker, Dawn Hudson, former Chief Marketing Officer of the National Football League and former President and CEO of Pepsi Cola North America, will speak to the power of a brand. Also on the agenda will be a report on the state of the current economy and prognostications on the economic future from Dr. Lavaughn Henry, policy analyst with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), and an update on developments in aerial mobility from Cyrus Sigari, founder and Chairman of Transport UP. There will be informational sessions on fraud and how to avoid being a victim of tomorrow’s latest schemes; a review of rising insurance prices and what’s being done about it; a legal roundtable focusing on regulatory changes; and financing best practices. Social events include a first-ever golf tournament to be held at Eagle Vines Golf Course and a wine tasting.

NAFA is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the success of lending institutions and other organizations involved in the aircraft financing and lending industry. NAFA also works with government agencies to help develop greater understanding of the industry and its needs.

If you are interested in learning more about the NAFA Conference, please click here to visit the NAFA website for more information. If you are interested in meeting with Stephen Hofer during the NAFA conference, call or email us. Hope to see you there!