Construction is progressing rapidly on a major new twin-bay hangar for international aviation firm Willis Aviation Services Limited at Teesside Airport. The 50-ft-high facility is rising on the airport's north side and is set to accommodate the company's expanding operations.
Spanning 100 metres by 50 metres, the hangar will be fully equipped to handle Boeing 737 and Airbus A320-family aircraft, including next-generation models. The development builds on Willis' existing presence at Teesside and reflects the airport's growing role as a hub for aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO).
The project is expected to generate a substantial number of highly-skilled jobs, reinforcing Teesside Airport's economic importance to the region. It also forms part of a broader £12.5 million investment package recently approved by the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority Cabinet, aimed at enhancing airport infrastructure – including roads and taxiways for the new facility.
In parallel, planning permission has been sought for an additional hangar at the airport for aviation and technology firm Draken, which will support RAF fighter training. This expansion follows the company securing a £173 million Ministry of Defence contract earlier this year, solidifying its presence at Teesside for a further five years.
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen commented: “It's great to see steel in the ground and even more progress roaring ahead at our airport site. Willis 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.” (£1.00 = US$1.33 at time of publication).
