Former FAA Attorney Courtney Freeman Joins Adams & Reese, Bringing Key Aviation Regulatory Expertise
Courtney Freeman's move from the FAA to Adams & Reese provides the law firm with critical regulatory insight into emerging aviation technologies like drones and advanced air mobility systems, positioning it to better serve clients navigating complex federal aviation frameworks.
The addition of Courtney W. Freeman as Counsel to Adams & Reese's Aviation & Aerospace Team marks a significant development for clients operating in the rapidly evolving aviation technology sector. Freeman brings over a decade of experience from the Federal Aviation Administration's Office of the Chief Counsel, where she served as lead attorney for groundbreaking projects involving emerging technologies.
Her expertise spans Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), Beyond Visual Line of Sight drone operations, and Advanced Air Mobility, including powered lift aircraft capable of vertical takeoff and landing. Freeman led teams that developed the legal architecture for these technologies, including implementation of the recent Executive Order, Unleashing American Drone Dominance, which aims to strengthen U.S. leadership in drone technology.
Marc Warren, Co-Leader of the Adams & Reese Aviation & Aerospace Team and former FAA acting chief counsel, emphasized the importance of Freeman's government experience. "Courtney has been instrumental in developing and supporting many of the regulatory frameworks for the FAA's most forward-looking programs," Warren stated. "She has a deep understanding of the federal policy-making and rule-making processes and a keen insight into the challenges and opportunities of implementation."
Freeman's background includes handling legal issues around traditional air carrier operations, hazardous materials carriage requirements, pandemic response, environmental compliance, and privacy matters. Her team frequently addressed issues of agency first impression, with Freeman personally handling the most complicated legal matters during her FAA tenure.
The move comes at a critical time for the aviation industry as new technologies and their applications become increasingly sophisticated and common. Freeman's government experience provides Adams & Reese clients with valuable insight into regulatory expectations and planning requirements. Paul Alp, Aviation & Aerospace Team Co-Leader and former senior counsel at The Boeing Company, noted that "Courtney brings substantial knowledge of the regulatory environment and challenges facing emerging air transportation systems."
This hiring strengthens Adams & Reese's position in the competitive legal market for aviation and aerospace services, particularly as companies seek guidance on compliance, waivers, exemptions, and enforcement matters related to cutting-edge aviation technologies.