Aircraft repair firm unveils hangar with jobs pledge

A global aircraft maintenance firm has opened a North East base with a jobs pledge.

Willis Aviation Services has cut the ribbon on a twin-bay hangar at Teesside International Airport.

And bosses say the venture – which will service 737 and A320 aircraft for high-profile carriers – comes with a blueprint to “bring more jobs to the community in the future”.

They add the business “is here to stay” with the “flagship facility” primed to oversee aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul for a number of operators.

Unveiling its plans, executive chair Charlie Willis told an invite-only ceremony attended by Bdaily that the 100-metre hub will create and support hundreds of jobs.

He said: “This is more than a hangar; it represents our long-term commitment to the UK.

“We didn’t just choose Teesside, we chose its people and its industrial spirit.

“We intend to bring more jobs in the future and make this the best aviation services base in the country.”

Willis’ hangar will support contracts with carriers such as TUI Airways and Jet2.com, announced earlier this year, which officials say will cover areas including “comprehensive base maintenance services” and in-depth ‘C-check’ inspections.

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