Aquila Air Capital Appoints Matthew Schneider as Vice President of Origination to Strengthen Growth and Customer Engagement in the Americas

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Aquila Air Capital, a leading aviation lessor based in Fort Worth, Texas, and Dublin, Ireland, has announced the appointment of Matthew Schneider as Vice President of Origination for the Americas. The decision, announced on March 9, 2026, underscores the company’s commitment to expanding its reach and driving portfolio growth across the Americas. With nearly three decades of experience in aviation finance, leasing, and portfolio management, Schneider’s appointment is expected to significantly enhance Aquila’s ability to engage customers and further establish the company’s position as a leading engine lessor.

This strategic move comes at a time when Aquila continues to strengthen its global presence and operations, fueled by its partnership with Wafra Inc., a global alternative asset manager. Schneider’s experience in aviation finance and leasing, especially his expertise in deal origination and account development, makes him the ideal candidate to lead the company’s customer-centric strategy in the Americas.

About Aquila Air Capital

Founded in 2021, Aquila Air Capital focuses on providing comprehensive aviation asset financing, alongside purchasing and leasing aircraft and engines. Backed by funds managed by Wafra Inc., a renowned New York-based asset manager, Aquila operates with a goal to be a trusted partner across the aviation value chain. The company works with a wide range of industry players, including buyers and sellers of assets, as well as operators requiring innovative solutions for their unique business challenges.

Aquila is led by a highly experienced management team, with deep expertise in the aerospace and aviation sectors. This team is committed to delivering creative financing and leasing solutions tailored to the ever-evolving demands of the aviation industry. Aquila’s strategic approach allows it to play a pivotal role in addressing the critical needs of customers while advancing its mission as a reliable partner in the aviation market.

Matthew Schneider’s Appointment: A Significant Step for Aquila

Matthew Schneider’s appointment to the role of Vice President of Origination for the Americas is an important development for Aquila Air Capital. Schneider will be responsible for driving the company’s origination activities and customer-focused strategy in collaboration with the Commercial and Origination teams. This new role will see him supporting the company’s expansion goals while deepening its relationships with airlines, lessors, and trading counterparties across North, Central, and South America.

Chance Fowler, Chief Commercial Officer of Aquila, expressed his enthusiasm for Schneider’s arrival, stating, “Matthew brings nearly three decades of experience in aviation finance and leasing, spanning deal origination, account development, and portfolio management. We look forward to Matthew deploying his innovative transaction structuring expertise to continue positioning Aquila as a leading engine lessor committed to strengthening our customers’ operations.”

A Proven Leader in Aviation Finance

Schneider’s extensive experience in the aviation finance and leasing sectors positions him as a key figure in advancing Aquila’s growth strategy. Prior to joining Aquila, Schneider served as Vice President of Leasing and Trading at GA Telesis, where he was responsible for overseeing global business development, trading, and remarketing activities. His deep understanding of the aviation market, along with his hands-on experience in deal structuring and asset management, equips him to tackle the challenges of a dynamic and competitive industry.

Before his role at GA Telesis, Schneider served as Senior Advisor at Plane View Partners, where he provided expert advisory services on commercial aircraft and engine leasing strategies. Schneider’s background also includes executive leadership roles at several prominent aircraft and engine leasing firms, where he played an integral role in driving business development and expanding their market presence.

Schneider’s appointment is a testament to Aquila’s strategic focus on strengthening its origination capabilities and enhancing customer engagement across the Americas. As Aquila continues to expand its portfolio, Schneider will bring his wealth of knowledge and expertise to the forefront, helping the company capitalize on emerging opportunities and maintain its competitive edge.

Schneider’s Vision for Aquila’s Growth in the Americas

Matthew Schneider shared his excitement about his new role, stating, “I am proud to join the Aquila team and look forward to expanding our presence across the Americas through disciplined origination and enduring partnerships with airlines, lessors, and trading counterparties.”

Schneider’s focus will be on deepening Aquila’s relationships with existing partners while also driving new business opportunities in the region. His vision for the role includes creating long-term value by structuring deals that meet the evolving needs of the aviation industry, focusing on customer satisfaction and portfolio growth.

Aquila Air Capital’s ability to tap into Schneider’s extensive network and expertise will be crucial as the company works to increase its market share in the Americas. Schneider’s leadership will play a key role in ensuring that the company’s offerings align with the specific needs of its clients in the region, whether they are seeking aircraft leasing solutions, asset financing, or engine leasing services.

The Role of Wafra and Aquila’s Strategic Growth

Wafra Inc., a global alternative asset manager, plays an essential role in supporting Aquila’s expansion strategy. As a key investor, Wafra provides the financial backing needed to execute Aquila’s strategic initiatives and scale its operations. The combination of Aquila’s deep industry knowledge and Wafra’s financial expertise creates a powerful platform for growth in the aviation finance sector.

Aquila’s commitment to customer-centric solutions and innovative transaction structuring has helped the company carve out a strong presence in the competitive world of aircraft leasing. The appointment of Schneider is a critical step in building on this foundation and positioning Aquila as a leading engine lessor in the global market.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Aquila Air Capital

Aquila Air Capital’s appointment of Matthew Schneider as Vice President of Origination for the Americas marks an exciting milestone for the company. With his extensive experience in aviation finance, leasing, and portfolio management, Schneider is well-equipped to help Aquila expand its footprint and strengthen its position as a trusted partner in the aviation sector.

The move reflects Aquila’s commitment to growth and innovation in the Americas, as the company continues to offer tailored solutions for customers across the aviation value chain. With Schneider at the helm of its origination strategy, Aquila is poised to enhance its portfolio, foster enduring partnerships, and contribute to the overall success of the aviation industry.

As the aviation market continues to evolve, Aquila Air Capital’s strategic appointments and customer-driven approach will play a key role in shaping the future of aviation asset financing and leasing.