Willis Sustainable Fuels Progresses Teesside SAF Project
Willis Lease Finance (NASDAQ: WLFC) announced that its subsidiary, Willis Sustainable Fuels (UK) , has secured license and engineering agreements with Johnson Matthey and Axens for its sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) project in Teesside, UK.
The facility is scheduled to begin commercial operations in Q1 2028 with an annual production capacity of 14,000 tonnes (approximately 50,000 litres daily) of SAF. The project, supported by the UK Department for Transport's Advanced Fuels Fund, will utilize Johnson Matthey's FT CANS™ technology and Axens' expertise.
The technology aims to produce 100% SAF that can be blended with conventional jet fuel, offering approximately 80% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to current fuels. McDermott will handle early engineering, procurement, and construction services for the project, which aligns with the UK government's 2050 net-zero target.
Willis Lease Finance (NASDAQ: WLFC) ha annunciato che la sua filiale, Willis Sustainable Fuels (UK), ha ottenuto accordi di licenza e ingegneria con Johnson Matthey e Axens per il suo progetto di carburante sostenibile per aviazione (SAF) a Teesside, Regno Unito.
La struttura è prevista per avviare le operazioni commerciali nel primo trimestre del 2028, con una capacità di produzione annuale di 14.000 tonnellate (circa 50.000 litri al giorno) di SAF. Il progetto, sostenuto dal Fondo per i Carburanti Avanzati del Dipartimento dei Trasporti del Regno Unito, utilizzerà la tecnologia FT CANS™ di Johnson Matthey e l'expertise di Axens.
La tecnologia mira a produrre un SAF al 100% che può essere miscelato con carburante per aerei convenzionale, offrendo una riduzione di circa 80% delle emissioni di gas serra rispetto ai carburanti attuali. McDermott si occuperà dei servizi di ingegneria, approvvigionamento e costruzione iniziali per il progetto, che si allinea con l'obiettivo di zero emissioni nette del governo del Regno Unito entro il 2050.
Willis Lease Finance (NASDAQ: WLFC) anunció que su subsidiaria, Willis Sustainable Fuels (UK), ha asegurado acuerdos de licencia e ingeniería con Johnson Matthey y Axens para su proyecto de combustible sostenible para aviación (SAF) en Teesside, Reino Unido.
La instalación está programada para comenzar operaciones comerciales en el primer trimestre de 2028 con una capacidad de producción anual de 14,000 toneladas (aproximadamente 50,000 litros diarios) de SAF. El proyecto, respaldado por el Fondo de Combustibles Avanzados del Departamento de Transporte del Reino Unido, utilizará la tecnología FT CANS™ de Johnson Matthey y la experiencia de Axens.
La tecnología tiene como objetivo producir un SAF 100% que puede mezclarse con combustible de aviación convencional, ofreciendo aproximadamente una reducción del 80% en las emisiones de gases de efecto invernadero en comparación con los combustibles actuales. McDermott se encargará de los servicios de ingeniería, adquisición y construcción iniciales para el proyecto, que se alinea con el objetivo de cero emisiones netas del gobierno del Reino Unido para 2050.
윌리스 리스 파이낸스 (NASDAQ: WLFC)는 자회사인 윌리스 지속 가능한 연료(UK)가 영국 테시드에서의 지속 가능한 항공 연료(SAF) 프로젝트를 위해 존슨 매티 및 악센스와 라이센스 및 엔지니어링 계약을 체결했다고 발표했습니다.
이 시설은 2028년 1분기에 상업 운영을 시작할 예정이며, 연간 14,000톤 (하루 약 50,000리터)의 SAF 생산 능력을 갖추게 됩니다. 이 프로젝트는 영국 교통부의 고급 연료 기금의 지원을 받으며, 존슨 매티의 FT CANS™ 기술과 악센스의 전문 지식을 활용할 것입니다.
이 기술은 기존 항공 연료와 혼합할 수 있는 100% SAF를 생산하는 것을 목표로 하며, 현재 연료에 비해 온실가스 배출량을 약 80% 줄이는 효과를 제공합니다. 맥더모트는 이 프로젝트를 위한 초기 엔지니어링, 조달 및 건설 서비스를 담당하며, 이는 영국 정부의 2050년 탄소 중립 목표와 일치합니다.
Willis Lease Finance (NASDAQ: WLFC) a annoncé que sa filiale, Willis Sustainable Fuels (UK), a obtenu des accords de licence et d'ingénierie avec Johnson Matthey et Axens pour son projet de carburant d'aviation durable (SAF) à Teesside, au Royaume-Uni.
L'installation est prévue pour commencer ses opérations commerciales au premier trimestre 2028 avec une capacité de production annuelle de 14 000 tonnes (environ 50 000 litres par jour) de SAF. Le projet, soutenu par le Fonds pour les carburants avancés du ministère des Transports du Royaume-Uni, utilisera la technologie FT CANS™ de Johnson Matthey et l'expertise d'Axens.
La technologie vise à produire un SAF 100 % pouvant être mélangé avec du carburant d'aviation conventionnel, offrant une réduction d'environ 80 % des émissions de gaz à effet de serre par rapport aux carburants actuels. McDermott s'occupera des services d'ingénierie, d'approvisionnement et de construction préliminaires pour le projet, qui s'aligne sur l'objectif de zéro émission nette du gouvernement britannique d'ici 2050.
Willis Lease Finance (NASDAQ: WLFC) gab bekannt, dass ihre Tochtergesellschaft, Willis Sustainable Fuels (UK), Lizenz- und Ingenieurein agreements mit Johnson Matthey und Axens für ihr nachhaltiges Flugkraftstoff (SAF) Projekt in Teesside, UK, gesichert hat.
Die Anlage soll im ersten Quartal 2028 mit einer jährlichen Produktionskapazität von 14.000 Tonnen (ungefähr 50.000 Liter täglich) SAF den kommerziellen Betrieb aufnehmen. Das Projekt, unterstützt vom Advanced Fuels Fund des britischen Verkehrsministeriums, wird die FT CANS™ Technologie von Johnson Matthey und die Expertise von Axens nutzen.
Die Technologie zielt darauf ab, 100% SAF zu produzieren, das mit herkömmlichem Flugkraftstoff gemischt werden kann, und bietet eine Reduzierung der Treibhausgasemissionen um etwa 80% im Vergleich zu aktuellen Kraftstoffen. McDermott wird die frühen Ingenieur-, Beschaffungs- und Bauleistungen für das Projekt übernehmen, das mit dem Ziel der britischen Regierung von Netto-Null-Emissionen bis 2050 übereinstimmt.
- Secured key technology partnerships with industry leaders Johnson Matthey and Axens
- Received government grant support from UK Department for Transport
- Project aligned with UK government's 2050 net-zero target
- Technology offers 80% greenhouse gas emissions reduction
- Long timeline to commercial operations (Q1 2028)
- Relatively small production capacity (14,000 tonnes annually)
Insights
Willis Lease Finance 's subsidiary, Willis Sustainable Fuels, has made significant progress on its Teesside sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) facility by securing critical technology license agreements with Johnson Matthey and Axens. These partnerships bring proven industrial technologies that will enable Willis to produce approximately
The project has secured governmental backing through the UK Department for Transport's Advanced Fuels Fund, strategically aligning with Britain's goal of establishing five commercial-scale SAF plants by 2025. This government support reduces regulatory uncertainty and potentially improves the project's economics through grant funding.
From a technical perspective, the facility plans to produce 100% SAF that can be blended with conventional jet fuel, offering an estimated
While commercial operations aren't expected until Q1 2028, this represents Willis Lease's strategic expansion beyond its core aircraft engine leasing business into the sustainable fuels sector. The initiative positions the company to potentially benefit from growing SAF mandates being implemented across various jurisdictions, particularly in Europe where regulatory requirements for sustainable aviation fuel usage are becoming increasingly stringent.
The license and engineering agreements between Willis Sustainable Fuels and established technology providers Johnson Matthey and Axens mark a material advancement in Willis Lease Finance 's SAF project development. The company is tactically positioning itself in the sustainable aviation space while maintaining its core aircraft engine leasing operations.
This project has three notable financial strengths. First, it's backed by government funding through the UK's Advanced Fuels Fund, potentially reducing capital requirements. Second, the deployment of Johnson Matthey's FT CANS™ technology (developed with bp) suggests industrial scalability advantages. Third, the planned 100% SAF production capability positions the output for premium pricing as airlines seek higher blend rates to meet emissions targets.
The Q1 2028 commercial timeline indicates this is an early-stage project with substantial development ahead. By engaging McDermott for early engineering and procurement services, Willis demonstrates commitment to professional project execution. The planned
For investors, this represents Willis Lease's strategic adaptation to aviation industry sustainability pressures. While not impacting near-term financials, the project positions the company to complement its traditional business with participation in the emerging sustainable aviation ecosystem, potentially creating value as regulatory requirements for SAF usage increase.
COCONUT CREEK, Fla., March 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Willis Lease Finance Corporation (NASDAQ: WLFC) (“WLFC” or the “Company”), the leading lessor of commercial aircraft engines and global provider of aviation services, today announced that its subsidiary, Willis Sustainable Fuels (UK) Limited (“WSF”), has entered into license and engineering agreements with two global leaders in sustainable technology, Johnson Matthey and Axens. These partnerships significantly advance WSF’s sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) project in Teesside, Northeastern England. WSF is targeting Q1 2028 to begin commercial operations at its SAF production facility, with an anticipated annual production capacity of 14,000 tonnes (equalling approximately 50,000 litres a day) of SAF.
“Through this collaboration, WSF will leverage Johnson Matthey’s and Axens’ market-leading technologies to support the production of SAF at our facility in Teesside, UK,” said Amy Ruddock, Senior Vice President, Sustainable Aviation & Corporate Development of WLFC. “Working with industry leaders will allow us to accelerate progress toward our vision for a cleaner, more sustainable future.”
This project received a grant from the UK Department for Transport’s Advanced Fuels Fund and represents an important step towards the UK government's 2050 net-zero target and its goal of having five commercial-scale SAF plants under construction by 2025. WSF is currently executing the detailed design phase of the project. McDermott will perform early engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) related services for the project.
“Our FT CANS™ technology was developed in partnership with bp and revolutionizes the sustainable fuel sector by enabling production at commercial scale. We look forward to working with Willis Sustainable Fuels on this innovative project that will benefit the UK and beyond,” said Alberto Giovanzana, Managing Director - Licensing at Johnson Matthey
“Axens is honored to be chosen as a partner in this pivotal energy transition project to support the emergence of the advanced SAF market in the UK. We are dedicated to accompanying Willis every step of the way, ensuring the successful implementation of innovative solutions that drive sustainable progress,” said Jacques Rault, Executive Vice President Technology & Technical Support of Axens.
The project’s technology is intended to produce
WSF remains committed to the aviation industry’s transformation to a more sustainable future by investing in, developing and producing scalable solutions to decarbonize aviation. For more information on WSF, visit www.willissustainablefuels.com.
About Willis Lease Finance Corporation
Willis Lease Finance Corporation (“WLFC”) leases large and regional spare commercial aircraft engines, auxiliary power units and aircraft to airlines, aircraft engine manufacturers and maintenance, repair, and overhaul providers worldwide. These leasing activities are integrated with engine and aircraft trading, engine lease pools and asset management services through Willis Asset Management Limited, as well as various end-of-life solutions for engines and aviation materials provided through Willis Aeronautical Services, Inc. Through Willis Engine Repair Center®, Jet Centre by Willis, and Willis Aviation Services Limited, the Company’s service offerings include Part 145 engine maintenance, aircraft line and base maintenance, aircraft disassembly, parking and storage, airport FBO and ground and cargo handling services. Willis Sustainable Fuels intends to develop, build and operate projects to help decarbonize aviation.
Except for historical information, the matters discussed in this press release contain forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Do not unduly rely on forward-looking statements, which give only expectations about the future and are not guarantees. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we undertake no obligation to update them to reflect any change in the Company’s expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which the forward-looking statement is based, except as required by law. Our actual results may differ materially from the results discussed in forward-looking statements. Factors that might cause such a difference include, but are not limited to: the effects on the airline industry and the global economy of events such as war, terrorist activity and the COVID-19 pandemic; changes in oil prices, rising inflation and other disruptions to world markets; trends in the airline industry and our ability to capitalize on those trends, including growth rates of markets and other economic factors; risks associated with owning and leasing jet engines and aircraft; our ability to successfully negotiate equipment purchases, sales and leases, to collect outstanding amounts due and to control costs and expenses; changes in interest rates and availability of capital, both to us and our customers; our ability to continue to meet changing customer demands; regulatory changes affecting airline operations, aircraft maintenance, accounting standards and taxes; the market value of engines and other assets in our portfolio; and risks detailed in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and other continuing and current reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. It is advisable, however, to consult any further disclosures the Company makes on related subjects in such filings. These statements constitute the Company’s cautionary statements under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.
About Johnson Matthey
Johnson Matthey is a global leader in sustainable technologies. For over 200 years Johnson Matthey has used advanced metals chemistry to tackle the world's biggest challenges.
Many of the world's leading energy, chemicals and automotive companies depend on Johnson Matthey’s technology and expertise to decarbonise, reduce harmful emissions, and improve their sustainability.
And now, as the world faces the challenges of climate change, energy supply and resource scarcity, Johnson Matthey is actively providing solutions for its customers. Through inspiring science and continued innovation, we're catalysing the net zero transition for millions of people every day. For more information visit www.matthey.com.
About Axens
The Axens Group (www.axens.net) offers a complete range of solutions for the conversion of oil and biomass into cleaner fuels, the production and purification of major petrochemical intermediates, the chemical recycling of plastics, natural gas treatment and conversion options, water treatment and carbon capture. Their offer includes technologies, equipment, furnaces, modular units, catalysts, adsorbents and related services. Axens is ideally positioned to cover the entire value chain, from feasibility studies to start-up and monitoring of units throughout their lifecycle. This unique position guarantees optimum performance and a reduced environmental footprint. Axens' international offering is based on highly qualified human resources, modern production facilities and an extensive global network for industrial, technical support and sales services. Axens is an IFP Energies Nouvelles Group company.
To find out more, visit Axens’ website and follow Axens on X and LinkedIn.
Contact press: press@axens.net
| CONTACT: | Lynn Mailliard Kohler |
| Director, Global Corporate Communications | |
| (415) 328-4798 | |
| lkohler@willislease.com |
FAQ
What is the production capacity of WLFC's new Teesside SAF facility?
How much emissions reduction will WLFC's sustainable aviation fuel achieve?
Which technology partners has WLFC secured for its Teesside SAF project?
When will WLFC's Teesside sustainable aviation fuel facility begin operations?
