"The JOLCO market remains an attractive way to diversify financing options and we're proud to deepen our relationship with Japanese counterparties," said Scott B. Flaherty, WLFC EVP and Chief Financial Officer. "Through global capital sources like this, WLFC is able to offer our airline customers compelling lease and financing solutions." COCONUT CREEK, Fla., April 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Willis Lease Finance Corporation (NASDAQ: WLFC) ("WLFC" or the "Company"), the leading lessor of commercial aircraf ...

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. 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 ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q4 2024, total revenues reached $152.8 million, with pre-tax income of $30.4 million, marking a 44.8% increase from $21 million in Q4 2023 [8][22] - For the full year 2024, total revenues were $569.2 million, with pre-tax income of $152.6 million, representing a 127% increase from the previous year [8][21] - The company achieved a return on equity of 21% for 2024, the highest since going public [8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Core lease rent revenues for 2024 were $238.2 million, with interest revenues of $11.7 million, reflecting growth due to an increased portfolio size of $2.87 billion [23] - Maintenance reserve revenues increased by 60% to $213.9 million, driven by both long-term and short-term maintenance reserves [25] - Spare parts and equipment sales rose by 33% to $27.1 million, indicating a strong market for residual values [26] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted a strong engine market, with increasing values for both whole engines and parts, although originating transactions have become more challenging due to high asset values [45][46] - The disparity between the fair market value and book value of the engine portfolio has increased to approximately $600 million, highlighting the appreciation of engine assets over time [30][80] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company continues to innovate, having established several industry firsts, including the first engine warehouse financing and the first aviation ABS to reopen the market [6][9] - The business model focuses on a flywheel approach, enhancing value creation and providing greater investment opportunities compared to competitors [11] - The company is strategically increasing its portfolio of future technology assets, which rose from 46% to 53% by the end of 2024 [100] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the ongoing strength of the core leasing business and the ability to generate premium returns [8][19] - The company anticipates continued demand for its constant thrust product as airlines transition to newer aircraft models [18] - Management acknowledged the challenges in the market but emphasized a robust pipeline of opportunities for originating transactions [47] Other Important Information - The company returned capital to shareholders through dividends, including a special dividend of $1 per share and regular quarterly dividends of $0.25 per share [37] - Total debt obligations increased from $1.8 billion to $2.3 billion, with a slight increase in leverage to 3.48 times [34][38] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on the engine market and values - Management noted a strong engine market with some scarcity, but they have been successful in originating transactions [45][46] Question: Availability of test cell for engine work - The company does not currently have a test cell and availability varies [51] Question: Discounts on new engine purchases - Management confirmed successful purchasing of new engines but did not disclose specific discounts [56][57] Question: Earnings from joint ventures - Management indicated that JV earnings have been stable and will benefit from scale over time [70] Question: Fair market value vs. book value of engine portfolio - The disparity has increased to approximately $600 million, reflecting the appreciation of engine assets [80] Question: Proportion of short-term vs. long-term maintenance reserve revenue - Management expects the trend of increased short-term maintenance reserves to continue [88] Question: Long-term lease extensions - The company is experiencing higher than average extension rates but uses this as an opportunity to reprice [96]