Construction is well underway on a major new twin-bay hangar at Teesside International Airport, marking a significant milestone for Willis Aviation Services Limited (WASL) and its rapidly expanding operations.
The 50-foot-tall, 100m x 50m hangar is rising on the airport’s north side and will be fully equipped to accommodate Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 family aircraft, including next-generation variants.
This latest development builds on WASL’s existing presence at Teesside and underscores the company’s long-term commitment to the region.
The new facility is expected to generate a substantial number of highly-skilled aviation jobs, reinforcing Teesside’s status as a growing hub for aircraft MRO activities.
Backing the project, the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority Cabinet have approved a £12.5 million infrastructure investment package. The funding will support key developments around the airport, including roads and taxiways to serve the new WASL hangar.
In a further boost to Teesside’s aviation ambitions, plans have also been submitted for an additional hangar to support the work of aviation and technology firm Draken. The facility is intended to aid RAF fighter training, enhancing the airport’s role as a strategic site for both commercial and defence aviation services.
Tees Valley Mayor, Ben Houchen, said: “It’s great to see steel in the ground and even more progress roaring ahead at our airport site. WASL 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.”
Houchen added: “Holiday flights are important – and to have Malaga back in its rightful place on our departure boards is a huge boost. It’s also crucial we continue to attract more routes, too. But we’re also ramping up our business park and investing to secure vital income for the airport through landing fees, rent, and jobs.
“By backing businesses in Airbourne Colours, WASL, Draken – and attracting others – we’re forging new careers and we’re laying the groundwork to attract even more international companies to our airport.”
WASL have had long-term ambitions to expand their operations at Teesside International Airport. Jet Centre by WASL offers a full range of ground handling services for business, private aviation, military, and cargo flights.
Phil Forster, Teesside International Airport’s managing director, said: “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.
“WASL 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.”
Austin C. Willis, chief executive officer 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.”
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