WLFC News & Events

Willis Lease Finance Corporation announced completion of its first core engine restoration at its U.S.-based Willis Engine Repair Center. This new, in-house engine module restoration capability will be branded Willis Module Shop. The restoration of a CFM56-7B core engine module marks a key milestone in WLFC's strategy to expand its internal technical and operational capabilities and validates the module shop concept. Post-maintenance testing of the inaugural module demonstrated strong exhaust gas temperature margin recovery, reflecting the quality, precision and effectiveness of the class-leading restoration process.

Willis Lease Finance Corporation announces the establishment of an industry-first program developed in collaboration with CFM International with the goal of extending the operational life of CFM56-5B and CFM56-7B engines. The program enables WLFC to keep CFM56-5B and CFM56-7B engines in service longer by restoring core components rather than fully disassembling the engine. WLFC is the first commercial aircraft engine lessor to partner with the OEM on this type of initiative for CFM56-5B and CFM56-7B engines, reflecting the Company's commitment to extending engine lifecycles.

Willis Lease Finance Corporation announced a purchase and leaseback agreement with Nauru Airlines for seven CFM56-7B engines. The agreement will provide Nauru with reliable ConstantThrust support for the airline's entire modern fleet of CFM56-7B engines powering Boeing 737-700 and 737-800 aircraft for six plus years. "Our partnership with Nauru Airlines underscores the global reach and adaptability of the ConstantThrust program," said Austin Willis, Chief Executive Officer of WLFC. "Nauru Airlines operates in a uniquely demanding and remote environment as an island country in the Pacific Ocean. We are excited to support their continued growth and leadership in regional aviation with our investment."

Willis Lease Finance announced the appointment of Steven Bridgland as Head of Investor Relations & Capital Markets for its recently announced asset manager, Willis Aviation Capital. In this role, Steve will lead day-to-day management of Willis Aviation Capital's existing investor relationships, continue development of new investor relationships and support capital deployment efforts. He has held senior leadership roles across banks, investment banks, and aircraft asset management and leasing platforms, including seventeen years in senior capital markets and origination roles at Deucalion Aviation.