Willis to expand services with new hangar

Construction of a new aviation facility is underway at Teesside International Airport, promising to bring jobs and growth to the region.

Willis Aviation Services Limited is building a 50-foot-high twin-bay hangar to service 737 and A320 family aircraft, including next-generation models. 

The 100-metre by 50-metre facility expands on Willis’ existing operations at the airport, with bosses saying it signals “commitment” to long-term growth plans and will lead to the creation of hundreds of jobs.

Austin C. Willis, chief executive of Willis Lease Finance Corporation, said: “We made a promise to create several hundred jobs in North East England, and we are proud to be delivering on that commitment. 

“We are following through on our pledge to establish and expand our services in this region and beyond. 

“Our integrated services businesses support third-party customers, as well as the company’s owned and managed assets, driving meaningful growth and opportunity in the communities we serve.”

The development has been backed by a £12.5 million infrastructure investment from the Tees Valley Combined Authority to support roads and taxiways.

In parallel, a separate hangar has been proposed by aviation firm Draken, supporting RAF training and linked to a £173 million Ministry of Defence contract that solidifies Draken’s presence at Teesside for at least four years.

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen added: “It’s great to see steel in the ground and even more progress roaring ahead at our airport site.

“Willis have been brilliant supporters of our airport and it’s wonderful to see their businesses thrive – with this expansion creating even more well-paid jobs for local people.

“And it’s also pleasing to see plans moving forward for Draken to secure their vital place on Teesside.

“By backing businesses in Airbourne Colours, Willis, Draken – and attracting others – we’re forging new careers and we’re laying the groundwork to attract even more international companies to our airport.”

Together, the projects reinforce the airport’s ambitions to become a leading hub for aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul, while boosting private, military and cargo flight services through Willis’ Jet Centre.

Phil Forster, managing director at Teesside International Airport, added: “We have fantastic transport links, a unique location in the heart of the UK and the benefits of Freeport status. 

“It all means Teesside Airport Business Park offers major advantages for companies.

“Willis have been loyal supporters and partners of the airport for many years and it’s great to see them grow and cement their place here with this new facility.

“With new long-term agreements at our airport, it means we’re really gaining a reputation as a viable one-stop shop for airline maintenance, repair and operations overhaul.”

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