MRO & Manufacturing
Willis Aviation & Jet2.com Expand MRO Partnership at Teesside Airport
Strategic expansion of aircraft maintenance collaboration creates jobs, boosts UK MRO sector growth at Teesside’s Freeport hub.
The strategic expansion of the maintenance partnership between Willis Aviation Services Limited (WASL) and Jet2.com represents a significant development in the UK’s aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) sector. Announced on July 9, 2025, this agreement commits Jet2.com to two base maintenance lines for the 2025-2026 season at WASL’s new facility in Teesside International Airport, doubling the capacity from the previous single-line arrangement. This collaboration underscores the growing demand for MRO services in Europe, driven by fleet expansions and aging aircraft, while highlighting Teesside’s emergence as a key aviation hub.
The partnership leverages Willis Lease Finance Corporation’s (WLFC) vertically integrated leasing platform and Jet2.com’s position as the UK’s third-largest airline, creating high-skilled jobs and supporting regional economic growth in Northeast England.
Willis Lease Finance Corporation (WLFC), founded in 1985 and publicly listed on NASDAQ in 1996, has established a 39-year track record of consistent profitability through its aircraft engine leasing and aviation services platform. The company operates a vertically integrated model combining leasing, trading, and maintenance services, generating revenue primarily through lease rents and maintenance reserves. As of March 2025, WLFC’s portfolio was valued at $2.82 billion, comprising 347 engines, 15 aircraft, and related equipment, with a utilization rate of 86.4%.
In March 2022, WLFC incorporated Willis Aviation Services Limited (WASL) as a UK-based subsidiary to expand its MRO capabilities. Headquartered at Hangar 2 in Teesside International Airport, WASL focuses on base maintenance, engine overhaul, and aircraft disassembly services. This move aligned with WLFC’s services-enhanced leasing strategy, which aims to control asset lifecycles through integrated maintenance solutions while reducing reliance on original equipment manufacturers.
WASL’s establishment coincided with Teesside Airport’s redevelopment and its designation as a Freeport in 2021. The Freeport status provides tax and customs advantages to aviation businesses operating within its boundaries, enhancing the region’s attractiveness for MRO investment.
Jet2.com is the UK’s third-largest airline, operating a fleet of Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 family aircraft from 13 UK bases. Known for its focus on leisure travel, Jet2.com serves over 75 destinations across Europe and beyond. The airline has expanded operations in recent years, including the addition of new bases at Bournemouth and Liverpool John Lennon airports.
The airline’s growth has increased its demand for regular and reliable maintenance services. Jet2.com’s engineering strategy is centered on safety, reliability, and operational excellence. According to Chris Hubbard, Director of Engineering & Maintenance, Jet2.com maintains “the highest standards of safety, operational excellence and reliability for our customers.”
Prior to the WASL partnership, Jet2.com relied on a network of MRO providers across the UK and Europe. However, consolidating maintenance activities at Teesside offers logistical advantages and reduces aircraft downtime, especially for its northern UK bases. The expansion of the partnership with WASL reflects Jet2.com’s confidence in the quality and reliability of WASL’s services. Teesside International Airport has undergone significant redevelopment since returning to public ownership in 2019. A £25 million investment into an “Aviation Village” includes five hangars, a fixed-base operation (FBO) terminal, and supporting infrastructure such as a new link road to the A67. These developments are designed to position the airport as a comprehensive aviation services hub.
WASL’s new twin-bay hangar at Teesside, measuring 100 meters by 50 meters, is under construction and will accommodate Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 family aircraft. The facility is expected to be completed in 2025 and will support both current and next-generation aircraft, including the 737 MAX. This expansion is part of a broader effort to attract aviation businesses to the region, including Airborne Colours and Draken.
Teesside Airport’s Freeport status enhances its competitiveness by offering customs and tax benefits. Its location in Northeast England provides geographic advantages for serving airlines based in northern UK cities. Phil Forster, Managing Director of Teesside Airport, has emphasized the airport’s strategic position and its potential to become a key MRO center.
The July 2025 agreement between WASL and Jet2.com confirms a commitment to two base maintenance lines for the 2025–2026 season. This expansion builds on the successful completion of a single maintenance line earlier in the year. The services will be carried out at WASL’s new facility at Teesside International Airport and will include heavy airframe checks, transitional maintenance, and aircraft painting.
Jet2.com cited WASL’s performance and reliability as key factors in expanding the partnership. The collaboration allows Jet2.com to centralize a significant portion of its maintenance operations, improving efficiency and reducing turnaround times. For WASL, the agreement strengthens its position in the UK MRO market and supports its long-term growth strategy.
WLFC’s vertically integrated model enhances the value proposition of the partnership. By combining leasing, maintenance, and asset management, WLFC provides a comprehensive solution to airline customers. The financial impact of this strategy is reflected in WLFC’s Q1 2025 results, which showed a 32.5% year-over-year increase in revenue to $157.7 million.
“Our investment in Teesside enables WASL to deliver essential services for airlines including Jet2 and reflects our commitment to driving local economic growth and creating skilled jobs in the UK aerospace industry.” – Austin C. Willis, CEO of WLFC
The expanded partnership is expected to generate significant economic benefits for the Teesside region. WASL’s facility will create a substantial number of high-skilled jobs, including positions for aircraft engineers, technicians, and support staff. The broader Aviation Village project is projected to result in 250–300 permanent jobs upon completion.
Beyond direct employment, the collaboration supports workforce development through apprenticeships and training programs. These initiatives are aligned with the UK’s Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) framework and aim to build a sustainable pipeline of technical talent in the region. Local authorities have emphasized the importance of such initiatives in addressing regional skill shortages. Public investment in the airport’s infrastructure, including a £12.5 million package approved by the Tees Valley Combined Authority, further supports the region’s economic transformation. The improvements in road and taxiway access enhance the airport’s capacity to attract additional aviation businesses and expand its service offerings.
The European MRO market is experiencing steady growth, driven by increasing air travel and the aging of aircraft fleets. In 2025, the market is valued at approximately €10.82 billion and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.42% through 2033. Narrowbody aircraft, such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320, dominate the market and align with WASL’s capabilities.
The UK MRO market alone had a market share of approximately USD 3.99 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.8%. Regional hubs like Teesside are well-positioned to capitalize on this growth, particularly as larger airports face capacity constraints. Teesside’s Freeport status and infrastructure investments enhance its ability to attract MRO business.
WLFC’s focus on next-generation engines, such as the LEAP engines used in the 737 MAX and A320neo, positions WASL for long-term relevance. As these engines mature, demand for specialized maintenance services is expected to increase. Jet2.com’s fleet renewal plans, which include newer 737 variants, ensure ongoing demand for WASL’s services.
The expanded maintenance partnership between WASL and Jet2.com represents a strategic alignment of capabilities and needs in the evolving MRO landscape. For WLFC, it reinforces the value of its vertically integrated model, while for Jet2.com, it ensures reliable and efficient maintenance support. The collaboration also contributes to regional economic development and supports the UK’s broader aviation strategy.
Looking ahead, the partnership may evolve to include additional services and clients as WASL expands its capacity. The integration of advanced maintenance technologies and sustainable aviation initiatives could further enhance the value of the Teesside facility. As the European MRO market continues to grow, collaborations like this will play a critical role in shaping the industry’s future.
Expansion of Aircraft Maintenance Partnership Between Willis Aviation Services and Jet2.com at Teesside Airport
Background of Willis Lease Finance Corporation and WASL
Jet2.com: A Leading UK Leisure Airline
Teesside International Airport as an Emerging MRO Hub
Details of the Expanded Maintenance Agreement
Economic and Regional Development Implications
Industry Context and MRO Market Growth
Conclusion
FAQ
Willis Aviation Services Limited (WASL) is a UK-based subsidiary of Willis Lease Finance Corporation, providing aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services.
The agreement includes two base maintenance lines for Jet2.com’s fleet at WASL’s facility in Teesside for the 2025–2026 season.
The partnership is expected to create a significant number of skilled jobs and contribute to regional economic development in Northeast England.Sources
Photo Credit: Wales Online
MRO & Manufacturing
Asian Aerospace Starts P243M Expansion in Clark Freeport Zone
Asian Aerospace Corporation begins a P243.2M expansion in Clark Freeport Zone focusing on MRO consolidation and aviation safety services.
This article summarizes reporting by the Daily Tribune, Manila Standard, and PortCalls Asia.
Asian Aerospace Corporation (AAC), a prominent player in the Philippine aviation sector, has officially commenced a significant expansion of its operations within the Clark Freeport Zone. According to reporting by the Daily Tribune, the P243.2 million (approximately USD 4.2 million) project is currently “in full swing” following a lease agreement signed in mid-December 2025.
The expansion centers on the construction of a new 1,848-square-meter facility designed to consolidate the company’s MRO capabilities. As noted in coverage by PortCalls Asia, this development aligns with the Clark International Airport Corporation’s (CIAC) broader strategy to establish the region as a global civil aviation and logistics hub.
The new infrastructure will function as a multi-purpose “Aviation Safety Hub” and “Aircraft Factory Service Center.” According to details shared by the Manila Standard, the facility is designed to centralize maintenance operations for business jets and helicopters while providing specialized support for avionics and environmental control systems.
AAC has operated within Clark since 2002. This latest investment reinforces its long-standing presence in the zone. The company currently manages a fleet that includes Gulfstream and Pilatus aircraft, as well as MD Helicopters. The new facility will allow AAC to service these assets more efficiently while offering authorized service center capabilities for major global aircraft manufacturers.
Beyond commercial MRO services, the expansion supports vital national safety mandates. AAC CEO Peter Rodriguez emphasized the company’s role in maintaining navigation systems across the archipelago. According to the Daily Tribune, AAC is responsible for calibrating equipment at 87 airports throughout the Philippines.
“Asian Aerospace has been calibrating 87 airports across the Philippines for the past four administrations. Without calibration, aerodromes cannot operate safely.”
, Peter Rodriguez, CEO of Asian Aerospace Corp. (via Daily Tribune)
The project is expected to generate high-value employment opportunities in the region. SunStar reports that the facility will require a specialized workforce, including aviation engineers, safety personnel, and avionics technicians. This aligns with recent trends in the Clark Aviation Capital district, where investments have reportedly created hundreds of jobs in the logistics and aviation sectors. During the signing ceremony, Clark Development Corporation (CDC) President and CEO Atty. Agnes VST Devanadera highlighted the critical nature of the work AAC performs.
“Proper maintenance of aircraft components saves lives, and that is why Asian Aerospace is important not only to Clark, but to the Philippines and the world.”
, Atty. Agnes VST Devanadera, President & CEO of CDC (via Manila Standard)
The expansion of Asian Aerospace Corporation highlights the growing maturity of the Clark Freeport Zone as a specialized aviation cluster. While the P243 million investment is modest compared to heavy infrastructure projects, its focus on technical MRO and calibration services fills a critical niche in the Philippine aviation ecosystem. By localizing high-level maintenance and calibration capabilities, the Philippines reduces reliance on foreign service providers for essential safety operations. This move also signals confidence in the CIAC’s “Aviation Capital” roadmap, suggesting that private sector players are seeing viable long-term returns in establishing permanent technical bases in Pampanga.
Sources: Daily Tribune, Manila Standard, PortCalls Asia, SunStar, Inquirer
Asian Aerospace Launches P243M Expansion in Clark Freeport Zone
Consolidating MRO and Factory Services
Critical Safety Infrastructure
Economic Impact and Workforce Development
AirPro News Analysis
Sources
Photo Credit: Clark Development Corporation
MRO & Manufacturing
B&H Worldwide Coordinates Bell 429 Helicopter Transport to Singapore MRO Hub
B&H Worldwide and Continental Carriers executed a complex Bell 429 helicopter logistics operation from India to Singapore for maintenance at Bell Textron’s facility.
This article is based on an official press release from B&H Worldwide.
B&H Worldwide, a global leader in aerospace logistics, has successfully coordinated the transport of a Bell 429 helicopters from India to Singapore. Announced on December 23, 2025, the operation involved a strategic partnership with Continental Carriers Pvt. Ltd. to return the aircraft to Bell Textron’s regional hub for scheduled MRO and inspection.
The movement highlights the specialized nature of rotary-wing logistics, which often requires disassembly and precise handling unlike standard fixed-wing aircraft transfers. According to the company’s announcement, the project underscores the growing connectivity between Indian aviation operators and Singapore’s Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) sector.
Moving a helicopter across international borders for maintenance involves significant technical planning. For this operation, the Bell 429 was dismantled into seven distinct cargo pieces to fit aboard a B747F freighter. The logistics process was split between two primary teams to ensure safety and compliance at both the origin and destination.
Continental Carriers Pvt. Ltd., a long-standing partner of B&H Worldwide, managed the ground operations in India. Their responsibilities included the physical teardown of the helicopter, pallet build-up, and coordination with the loadmaster to secure the high-value asset for air freight. The firm utilized its expertise in aerospace and defense logistics to navigate the regulatory landscape and prepare the cargo for export.
Upon arrival in Singapore, B&H Worldwide took control of the shipment. The company managed import customs clearance and arranged for specialized ground transport. To mitigate the risk of damage from vibration or shock, the team utilized an air-ride suspension transporter for the final leg of the journey to the Bell Textron facility at Seletar Aerospace Park.
Terry Ooi, Operations Manager for B&H Worldwide Singapore, emphasized the necessity of pre-planning in helicopter logistics:
“Helicopter logistics demand a different level of planning and coordination, particularly at destination. By identifying site limitations and handling requirements early, we can eliminate unnecessary risk.”
Terry Ooi, Operations Manager, B&H Worldwide Singapore
The Singapore team conducted pre-arrival site surveys to verify vehicle height limitations and ensure that appropriate tie-down expertise was available for safe unloading at the MRO facility.
The destination for the Bell 429 was Bell Textron’s facility at Seletar Aerospace Park, a specialized industrial zone designed to cluster aerospace companies. This facility serves as a critical node for the Asia-Pacific region, offering maintenance, customization, and re-assembly services.
The operation reflects a broader industry trend where regional operators rely on centralized hubs like Singapore for heavy maintenance that cannot be performed locally. The Bell 429, a popular light twin-engine helicopter used for corporate transport and emergency services across Asia, requires consistent high-level support, driving demand for these complex logistics solutions.
This operation illustrates that modern aerospace logistics has evolved beyond simple transportation into a discipline of risk management and engineering. The requirement to dismantle an aircraft into seven pieces and reassemble it in a different country demonstrates the tight integration required between logistics providers and MRO facilities.
Furthermore, the collaboration between a UK-headquartered logistics provider (B&H), an Indian freight forwarder (Continental Carriers), and a Singaporean service center (Bell Textron) highlights the interdependence of the Asian aerospace supply chain. As the fleet of rotary-wing aircraft grows in the region, we expect to see an increase in demand for “white-glove” logistics services that can handle sensitive air-ride requirements and complex customs procedures.
B&H Worldwide and Continental Carriers Execute Complex Bell 429 Logistics Operation
Operational Breakdown: From India to Singapore
Origin Logistics in India
Destination Logistics in Singapore
Strategic Context: Singapore as a Regional MRO Hub
AirPro News Analysis
Sources
Photo Credit: B&H Worldwide
MRO & Manufacturing
Leonardo and Heli-One Extend AW101 SAR Helicopter Maintenance Contract
Leonardo and Heli-One extend maintenance coverage through 2030 for Norway’s AW101 SAR fleet, ensuring operational readiness across six bases.
This article is based on an official press release from Heli-One.
Leonardo has officially extended its contract with Heli-One to provide critical MRO services for the Royal Norwegian Air Force’s (RNoAF) fleet of AW101 search and rescue helicopters. According to the announcement, the agreement secures support for the “SAR Queen” fleet through 2030, ensuring operational readiness for one of the world’s most demanding rescue environments.
The extension reinforces a strategic collaboration between the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), Leonardo, and Heli-One, a leading provider of helicopter MRO services. Under the terms of the agreement, Heli-One technicians will continue to work as embedded support alongside Leonardo personnel at RNoAF bases. This integrated approach is designed to maintain 24/7 fleet availability for the 330 Squadron, which operates the aircraft across Norway’s challenging terrain and maritime zones.
The renewed contract focuses on delivering comprehensive support for the 16 AW101-612 helicopters that now form the backbone of Norway’s National All-Weather Search and Rescue Helicopter (NAWSARH) program. Heli-One’s role involves a mix of scheduled and unscheduled maintenance, aimed at minimizing downtime and maximizing mission availability.
According to the press release, the partnership leverages Heli-One’s specialized experience in the North Sea region. By embedding Norwegian maintenance specialists directly at the operating bases, the program ensures that technical expertise is available on-site to address issues immediately. This logistics model is essential for maintaining the high readiness rates required for life-saving missions in the Arctic and North Sea.
Executives from both companies emphasized the importance of local expertise and long-term collaboration in securing the contract extension.
“Our team has decades of experience maintaining helicopters based in the North Sea and we are fully committed to applying our expertise in support of the AW101 SAR Queen.”
— Carolyn Forsyth, General Manager of Sales & Commercial, Heli-One
Mark Goddard, Head of Customer Service Management at Leonardo UK, highlighted the historical depth of the relationship with the Norwegian defense sector. “We are honored to support 330 Squadron and the Royal Norwegian Air Force as they carry out life-saving search-and-rescue operations… Our association with the Norwegian defence sector goes back 50 years.”
— Mark Goddard, Leonardo UK
The extension comes as the RNoAF completes its transition from the legacy Westland Sea King fleet to the modern AW101-612. The transition, which concluded in late 2024 with the activation of the Florø base, marks a significant upgrade in Norway’s national rescue capabilities.
The AW101 “SAR Queen” is widely regarded as the most advanced search and rescue helicopter currently in operation. Customized specifically for Norwegian requirements, the aircraft features several cutting-edge technologies:
To cover Norway’s extensive coastline and territory, the fleet operates from six strategic bases. Sola serves as the headquarters, with additional operations at Ørland, Banak (Lakselv), Bodø, Rygge, and Florø. The dispersed basing strategy ensures that the 330 Squadron can respond rapidly to emergencies anywhere in the country or the surrounding seas.
This contract extension highlights a broader trend in military aviation logistics: the “hybrid” support model. Rather than relying solely on military maintainers or distant OEM support, defense forces are increasingly utilizing embedded commercial contractors. In this case, Leonardo (the OEM) contracting Heli-One (a local MRO expert) provides the RNoAF with the best of both worlds, access to proprietary engineering data and local, environment-specific maintenance know-how.
The North Sea is notoriously corrosive and harsh on airframes. Heli-One’s background in offshore oil and gas helicopter support likely played a decisive role in Leonardo’s decision to extend the partnership. For the RNoAF, this continuity is vital. With the Sea King now fully retired, the AW101 is the sole platform for national SAR; any gap in maintenance availability would directly impact public safety.
The contract between Leonardo and Heli-One has been extended through 2030.
The agreement covers the maintenance of all 16 AW101-612 “SAR Queen” helicopters operated by the Royal Norwegian Air Force.
Heli-One provides embedded maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services, working alongside Leonardo staff at RNoAF bases to ensure fleet readiness. The fleet operates from six bases across Norway: Sola (HQ), Ørland, Banak, Bodø, Rygge, and Florø.
Sources: Heli-One
Leonardo Extends Maintenance Partnership with Heli-One for Norway’s AW101 SAR Fleet
Contract Scope and Operational Support
Executive Commentary
The AW101 “SAR Queen” and NAWSARH Program
Advanced Technical Capabilities
Strategic Basing
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duration of the contract extension?
How many helicopters are covered by this agreement?
What is the role of Heli-One in this partnership?
Where are the AW101 helicopters based?
Photo Credit: Heli-One
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