Hong Kong Aviation Capital Appoints Russell Hubbard - Regional Head of Commercial

Hong Kong and Sydney, July 26, 2011 – Hong Kong Aviation Capital (“HKAC”), a leading investor in global aviation finance, announced today it has appointed Russell Hubbard as its new Regional Head of Commercial for Europe, Middle East, Africa (EMEA), Russia and CIS.

Mr. Hubbard will be based in London and comes to HKAC from GAAM in London.  During his 25 year aviation career he has performed a range of commercial activities and analysis on behalf of lessors buying major aviation portfolios and advising airlines on lease financing. Mr. Hubbard will begin his appointment with HKAC in September.

During his first two years at GAAM the portfolio grew to more than 50 aircraft and in recent years Mr. Hubbard has successfully negotiated new leases and managed the sale of certain assets from the portfolio. He also implemented the lessor’s asset management programme and oversaw that complete function.   

"We are very pleased to have someone of Russell’s calibre joining HKAC, and see it as another important step in our development and continuing international expansion," said Mr. Donal Boylan, CEO, Hong Kong Aviation Capital. 

"Russell’s wide experience in and knowledge of the market will be an asset to HKAC. His extensive knowledge of lease operations will help us rapidly consolidate our lease management business within the Allco aviation portfolio acquired early in 2010. It will support HKAC as it continues to position itself through new business expansion as a leader in the global aircraft leasing marketplace."

In addition to as his recent experience at GAAM, Mr. Hubbard has held the position of Director of Consultancy Services at IBA Group, Head of Commercial at Euro Direct Airlines and has worked as a consultant with both SH&E and in a private capacity.  He has acted as an expert witness in commercial court cases in the UK and China. Mr. Hubbard holds an MBA from the University of Liverpool in the UK.

HKAC continues to expand its portfolio of more than US$3 billion in assets this year following completion of its acquisition of Allco Aviation in early January 2010.  As part of that acquisition, HKAC retained the existing management team of the Allco Aviation portfolio.