What are expected operational lawyer fees? It seems like the only time ill need a lawyer is to write up employment contracts. Is there anything else I’m missing, assuming I don’t get sued?

For an aviation business? One of the most heavily regulated businesses out there? This level of ignorance about the industry will cause any investors to run away from you in a heartbeat. Get experience in the industry. Work in it. Aviation is not something you can walk into completely cold and figure it out as you go.