COCONUT CREEK, Fla., Sept. 30, 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 the appointment of Pascal Picano as Senior Vice President, Aircraft Leasing & Trading, effective immediately. Pascal reports directly to Austin C. Willis, Chief Executive Officer of WLFC, and will work closely with Marc Pierpoint, Senior Vice President, Head of Trading & I ...

Core Insights - The company reported record pre-tax income of $74.3 million and record quarterly revenue of $195.5 million for Q2 2025, marking a 29.4% increase from $151.1 million in Q2 2024 [1][3][8] Financial Performance - Total revenue for Q2 2025 was $195.5 million, up 29.4% from $151.1 million in Q2 2024 [3][8] - Core lease rent and maintenance reserve revenues totaled $123.0 million, a 4% increase from $118.8 million in the same period last year [3] - Lease rent revenue reached $72.3 million, reflecting a 29.4% increase [8] - Maintenance reserve revenue was strong at $50.7 million, with short-term recurring maintenance reserve revenue up 9.5% [8] - Spare parts and equipment sales surged to $30.4 million, a significant increase from $6.2 million in Q2 2024, representing a 390.7% growth [5][8] Operational Highlights - The company generated $50.2 million in short-term maintenance revenues from engines on lease with "non-reimbursable" usage fees, up 9.5% from $45.9 million in Q2 2024 [4] - The gain on sale of leased equipment was $27.6 million, compared to $14.4 million in Q2 2024, marking a 91.2% increase [6][8] - The company sold its UK aviation consultancy business, Bridgend Asset Management Limited, to its WMES joint venture, resulting in a gain of approximately $43.0 million [7][8] Balance Sheet Overview - As of June 30, 2025, the company's lease portfolio was valued at $2,830.0 million, with total assets amounting to $3,946.4 million [8][16][17] - The company reported total liabilities of $3,265.2 million, with debt obligations at $2,800.6 million [17] - Shareholders' equity stood at $617.9 million, an increase from $549.3 million at the end of 2024 [17]

Group 1 - Joby Aviation is acquiring Blade Air Mobility, Inc., which is described as an "Uber for helicopters," leading to a 21% intraday spike in Joby shares [1] - The trade structure involves a net debit of $2.60, with a maximum gain that is uncapped, a maximum loss of $1,020, and a break-even point at $16.80 according to Fidelity's model [1][2] - The trade includes buying an $18 strike call expiring on January 16, 2026, selling a $17.50 strike put expiring on August 8, 2025, and buying a $15 strike put expiring on August 8, 2025 [4] Group 2 - The catalyst for this trade is the upcoming earnings report, which is expected to have additional headline potential in the following weeks [4] - The strategy aims to take advantage of elevated pre-earnings implied volatility to reduce net cost while maintaining uncapped upside potential [4] - The trade is designed to limit drawdown in case the catalyst does not meet expectations, indicating a cautious approach to risk management [4]

Core Insights - Bristow Group Inc. released its 2024 Sustainability Report, emphasizing its commitment to responsible growth and sustainable practices [1][2] Group 1: Safety and Community Impact - The company achieved a 32% reduction in lost workdays in 2024, highlighting its focus on safety as a core value [2] - The UK Search and Rescue (SAR) team rescued 470 individuals during 2,870 missions, showcasing Bristow's role in community safety [2][8] Group 2: Sustainable Aviation Initiatives - Bristow secured an agreement to acquire 10 Leonardo AW189 helicopters, with options for 10 more, aimed at reducing CO₂ emissions and supporting sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) [3][8] - The company signed a letter of intent to participate in Norway's international test arena for zero- and low-emission aviation, indicating a commitment to future aviation innovation [3][8] Group 3: Ethical Leadership and Community Support - A new human rights supplier commitment process was implemented in Norway, with plans for global expansion in 2025, enhancing transparency and ethical standards [4] - Through the Bristow Uplift initiative, the company donated over $600,000 in 2024 to support local communities, reinforcing its corporate social responsibility [5]

Core Insights - Willis Lease Finance Corporation (WLFC) has entered into an agreement to sell its consultancy and advisory arm, Bridgend Asset Management Limited, to its joint venture partner Mitsui, through Willis Mitsui & Co. Engine Support Limited (WMES) [1][2] - This strategic move aims to enhance collaboration and expand WMES's capabilities in aviation services, focusing on increasing service offerings and aviation asset portfolio [1][2] - The transaction is expected to unlock fresh capital for WLFC, which can be reinvested to accelerate portfolio growth, providing a premium return on equity [3] Company Overview - WLFC is a leading lessor of commercial aircraft engines and provides various aviation services, including engine maintenance, aircraft leasing, and asset management [4] - WMES, established in 2011 and headquartered in Dublin, currently manages assets worth approximately $360 million, and the integration of WLFC's services will enhance its operational efficiencies [2][4] - The partnership with Mitsui is expected to strengthen long-term relationships and drive growth in the commercial aviation sector [4]

"WLFC's strong first quarter 2025 financial results reflect the strength in our business model, which enables us to provide advanced and efficient solutions to airlines," said Austin C. Willis, Chief Executive Officer of WLFC. "While concerns over tariffs have created market volatility, we remain confident in the drivers of our business. The cost of new engines continues to drive operators towards leasing, and our maintenance capabilities and programs provide value and certainty for cost conscious airlines. ...