Aquila Air Capital, a specialty finance platform focused on the commercial aerospace industry, appointed Al Wood CEO. In addition, Peter Siaw joined Aquila as head of originations and leasing in the APAC region and Keith Whittaker, managing partner of Kepler Hill Capital, will join Aquila’s board of directors.

Aquila Air Capital is a specialty finance platform that provides asset financing and purchases and leases aircraft, engines and other aviation equipment. Leveraging more than 50 years of collective experience in aviation among its leadership team, the company provides solutions to asset buyers, sellers and operators.

Wood has more than 25 years of experience in the aerospace industry, most recently serving as CFO of Boeing Commercial Services, a $9 billion business unit for which he focused on increasing return on invested capital, streamlining the product and services portfolio and reducing working capital requirements. He previously served as head of M&A at Boeing Global Services and was the chief commercial officer at AeroTurbine, a subsidiary of AerCap.

“As the aerospace industry navigates a complex and rapidly evolving environment, I believe that Aquila Air Capital can capitalize on significant growth opportunities while providing world-class customer support and flexible capital solutions to airlines, lessors and OEMs around the world. With the addition of Peter to our team, I believe we will build a strong portfolio of assets and partnerships, particularly in Asia,” Wood said. “I look forward to leading the Aquila team and building its foundation through exciting lease transactions, partnerships and innovative solutions for our customers.”

Siaw most recently served as a managing director and vice president of commercial in the APAC region at Aero Capital Solutions. He previously was senior vice president of international strategic development at AeroTurbine and managing director of Aercap Singapore.

“There is a strong opportunity to source through our network and ultimately build a portfolio of desirable assets for our clients. We are excited by the gradual reopening of borders and recovery of international flights in the APAC region. As airlines emerge from lockdown and restart international operations, there will be the need to revisit their fleet development plans and right-size their current fleets to be positioned for future growth. We are well-positioned to offer unburdened fleet exit solutions to assist the airline industry with their asset realignment,” Siaw said. “I am excited to join Al and the Aquila Air Capital team and look forward to scaling the company and building a comprehensive platform of aviation solutions and partnerships.”