Willis Sustainable Fuels names Wilton International in Teesside, UK, home to its SAF project

Willis Lease Finance Corp., the leading lessor of commercial-aircraft engines and global provider of aviation services, announced Oct. 2 that its subsidiary, Willis Sustainable Fuels (U.K.) Ltd., has selected Wilton International in Teesside, a site owned and operated by Sembcorp Utilities (U.K.) Ltd., as the location for its sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) project.

The new facility aims to produce 14,000 metric tons of SAF annually beginning in 2028 and is expected to deliver in excess of an 80 percent reduction in greenhouse-gas emissions compared to conventional jet fuel.

“Wilton International offers the strategic location and world-class infrastructure necessary for the next generation of SAF production,” said Amy Ruddock, an executive at Willis Lease Finance. “Our selection of Wilton International underscores the pivotal role Teesside will play in the U.K.’s energy transition. By leveraging this site’s already renowned capabilities and collaborating with our technology and construction partners, we are advancing the U.K.’s leadership in sustainable aviation and supporting the creation of a robust local supply chain.”

It was recently announced that WSF’s project was awarded a £2.9 million (USD$3.9 million) grant from the U.K. Department for Transport’s Advanced Fuels Fund to support the project from July 2025 to March 2026.

The plant intends to convert sustainable biomethane, sourced from waste, into aviation fuel.

WSF is collaborating with Johnson Matthey and Axens as technology partners, with McDermott leading the engineering.

The initiative is projected to generate approximately 50 highly skilled, permanent jobs with a further 200 roles during construction.

“We are delighted that WSF has chosen Wilton International for its SAF project, which aims to accelerate the U.K.’s net-zero journey,” said Mike Patrick, CEO of Sembcorp Energy U.K. “Our site provides vital infrastructure, reliable energy and integrated utility services essential for delivering large-scale, low-carbon projects. This partnership reinforces our commitment to enabling the U.K.’s energy transition and strengthens Wilton International’s strategic proposition in supporting industrial decarbonization.”