Obituary: David Relf 1953-2011

David Relf, aviation partner at Holman Fenwick Willan in London, died last week. He was 58.

A former pilot, Relf was widely recognised as a leading expert in business jet law and he supported the growth of the industry for over 30 years.

His technical knowledge of aircraft, combined with his experience as an asset finance lawyer, helped him to develop much of the documentation that is commonly used in business jet financing. Several banks still use templates he drafted over 20 years ago.

“He was one of the most knowledgeable and charismatic lawyers in the aviation industry. His loss will be deeply felt,” said Adam Shire, a partner at Holman Fenwick Willan, who worked with Relf for over 14 years. “We have received letters of condolence from so many people all over the world who became personal friends of David as well as clients, such was his infectious love of the corporate jet world and the people associated with it. He will be greatly missed by all of us.

Relf qualified in 1977 and worked for Coward Chance before moving to Sinclair Roche & Temperley, which later merged with Stephenson Harwood. He joined Holman Fenwick Willan in 2007.

He mentored a number of young lawyers, at Stephenson Harwood and Holman Fenwick, many of whom are now leading senior business jet counsel across Europe. 

Relf is much missed by his many friends and colleagues.