Willis Lease Finance Corporation (WLFC) has announced the launch of an industry-first programme, developed in collaboration with CFM International (CFM), aimed at extending the operational life of CFM56-5B and CFM56-7B engines.
The programme enables WLFC to keep CFM56-5B and CFM56-7B engines in service for longer by restoring core components, rather than fully dismantling the engine. WLFC is the first commercial aircraft engine lessor to partner with the OEM on an initiative of this kind for these engine types, underlining the company’s commitment to extending engine lifecycles.
“This programme represents a meaningful evolution in how we manage engine assets,” said Austin C. Willis, Chief Executive Officer of Willis Lease Finance Corporation. “By using this programme to perform shop visits in our own facilities as well as others, we expect to offer our customers a high-quality product at a reasonable price.”
“With this agreement, WLFC will benefit from OEM material to support the servicing of its CFM56 engines,” said Gaël Méheust, President and CEO of CFM International. “CFM56 engines have set standards for reliability and time on wing — benefits which this contract will extend well into the future for WLFC’s customers.”
WLFC has already identified and inducted an initial group of engines into the programme and plans to expand participation across additional assets over time.
