Willis commits to Teesside with long-term lease

A global aircraft maintenance firm is set to expand its operations at Teesside International Airport.

Willis Aviation Services has signed a 250-year lease for an additional 50 acres at the airport.

Bosses say the expansion, which follows the opening of a new twin-bay hangar at the airport, reflects the company’s “long-term commitment” to the region and will increase its maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) capacity.

Charles F. Willis, executive chairman of Willis Lease Finance Corporation (WLFC), the parent company of Willis Aviation Services, said: “With this acquisition, we take another strategic step toward offering end-to-end aviation services and supporting the continued growth of the United Kingdom’s aviation industry.”

Phil Forster, managing director of Teesside Airport, added: “WLFC has been a fantastic supporter of Teesside Airport for many years, and this long-lease agreement is a huge step in their commitment to our airport and our region. 

“Their investment in a new twin-bay hangar launched this week, and the new maintenance contracts they’ve secured in the past year show just how serious their team is when it comes to growing here and creating more well-paid, skilled jobs in Teesside.

“Teesside is fast becoming the go-to place for aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul, and we’re taking big strides forward in becoming an ideal one-stop shop for major operators. 

“This is a hugely significant moment for Teesside Airport and a major milestone in securing the airport’s long-term future.”

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen added: “When we saved our airport from closure, we did it because it was the right thing to do. 

“We also believed it had the huge potential to bring so many more jobs for local people and more investment.

“Securing more holiday flights will always be vital, and I’ll never lose sight of that, but the airport has always needed to be about much more than that. 

“The airport is now a hive of activity where we are using the land to grow a brilliant business park and making it a place where major international firms can invest and thrive.

“Willis’s decision to make this long-term investment shows both their confidence in Teesside and in our vision for the airport’s future. 

“It’s a hugely important step that will help put Teesside Airport on a more secure financial footing for years to come and bring hundreds more well-paid jobs for people to build their careers here.”

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