Who we are
Aviation Law Practice
At Wolmarans & Co. we specialise in aviation law matters
and ensure that our clients receive the excellent legal representation.
Aviation demands precision. With our experience and passion we assist our clients to navigate the complexities of aviation law in Africa and beyond. Whether advising on coverage issues, litigating high-stakes claims or navigating the labyrinth of local and international aviation laws and regulations, we combine legal excellence with industry insight to protect our clients' interests in a dynamic and constantly evolving environment.
Our firm represents insurers; reinsurers; underwriters; brokers; operators; manufacturers; aircraft maintenance organisations and engineers; pilots and aviation professionals accross the full spectrum of the industry.
For us aviation is not a sideline- it's our core focus.
What we do
Insurance coverage issues
Subrogated defence and recoveries
General aviation losses
Personal injury claims
Commercial disputes
Lease management
Product liability claims
Drafting commercial agreements
Contract revision and adjustments
Regulatory matters
Product development
Drone liability issues
Accident investigation support
Specialist Services
Accident Investigation Support
We work alongside investigators, adjusters and technical experts to analyse causal factors and determine coverage implications. Being involved from the start ensures a deep understanding of the issues and parties involved and give us an edge in further conduct of the matter.
Insurance Coverage Analysis and Advisory
At Wolmarans & Co. we provide clear, decisive guidance on policy interpretation, coverage triggers, exclusions, policy response issues, and industry specific business and reputational risk management.
Claims Handling & Litigation
From minor property damage claims to total loss and fatal accidents, we represent our clients through every stage of the claims process. We are skilled and experienced in conducting complex, technical, multi-party litigation and negotiating resolutions that secure the best interest of our clients.
Product Liability and Subrogated Claims
We pursue and defend claims involving aircraft components, maintenance errors and manufacturing defects. In subrogated defence and recovery actions we ensure that our clients' financial interests and reputation are protected through targeted and proven litigation strategies.
Regulatory & Compliance Guidance
We assist clients to navigate the labyrinth of laws, conventions, treaties, regulations, technical standards and directives that make up Aviation Law in South Africa, Africa and beyond. We ensure that our clients remain compliant and prepared for emerging regulatory challenges.
Personal Injury Claims
We represent our clients in matters arising from passenger injuries, crew safety incidents and ground operation accidents. We offer thorough liability analysis and litigation strategies tailored to the unique standards and technical considerations of various aviation environments.
Lease Management
We advise lessors, lessees, operators and insurers on the legal and operational obligations associated with aircraft leasing. Our services include drafting and reviewing lease agreements, addressing maintenance and airworthiness responsibilities, and resolving disputes that may affect coverage or financial exposure.
Commercial Agreements
Our attorneys prepare clear, comprehensive, aviation-specific contracts including maintenance agreements, charter contracts, hangarage agreements, indemnity and ticket wording, settlement release and discharge agreements, and much more. We ensure that our clients' contractual relationships are compliant, enforceable and aligned with risk management objectives.
Drone Liability Issues
As unmanned aircraft systems continue to reshape the industry, we assist insurers and operators in navigating emerging liability exposures. We advise on coverage applicability, regulatory compliance, operational risks, and claims arising from drone operations in commercial, industrial and specialised sectors.
Commercial Disputes
We represent aviation insurers and stakeholders in disputes involving contractual breaches, service agreements, liability allocation, and operational conflicts. Our firm focuses on resolving matters efficiently - whether through negotiation, mediation, arbitration or litigation - while protecting clients' legal and commercial interests.
People
Gerbrandt Wolmarans
Gerbrandt Wolmarans is the Managing Director and Founder of Wolmarans & Co. Inc., a specialist aviation law practice based in South Africa. A lifelong aviation enthusiast, Gerbrandt obtained his Private Pilot Licence even before receiving his motor vehicle licence—a testament to the passion that continues to inspire his work today.
He graduated from the University of Pretoria obtaining his B.Com (Law) and LLB degrees and has completed various courses including Air Space and Telecommunications Law. He worked for over 10 years at Savage Jooste & Adams Inc. where he focused predominantly on aviation-related matters. Driven by a long-held vision to create a dedicated aviation law practice, he founded Wolmarans & Co. Inc. in 2021 in order to offer clients highly specialised legal expertise within the aviation sector.
With over 15 years of experience in aviation law, Gerbrandt is known for his commitment to excellence, his proactive and solutions-driven approach, and his dedication to resolving matters efficiently and cost-effectively.
Gerbrandt is joined by a team of effective and efficient secretarial and financial staff.