Willis Lease Finance Corporation has been added to three Russell 2000 indexes, effective June 26, 2026, as part of the FTSE Russell 2026 U.S. Indexes reconstitution. The company is now included in the Russell 2000 Defensive Index, Russell 2000 Growth-Defensive Index, and Russell 2000 Value-Defensive Index. Willis Lease Finance Corporation has been a member of the Russell 2000 Index since 2009.

Austin C. Willis, Chief Executive Officer of Willis Lease Finance Corporation, stated that the inclusion should broaden the company's visibility with the investment community. He added that these indexes are designed to deliver financial stability for investors, and the inclusion validates the company's long-term strategy to create value for shareholders.

Russell indexes are widely used by investment managers and institutional investors for index funds and as benchmarks for active investment strategies. As of June 30, 2025, approximately $12.2 trillion in assets are benchmarked to the Russell US Indexes, which belong to FTSE Russell, the global index provider.

Index Inclusions

Willis Lease Finance Corporation is now part of the following indexes:

Willis Lease Finance Corporation leases large and regional spare commercial aircraft engines and aircraft to airlines, aircraft engine manufacturers, and maintenance, repair, and overhaul providers worldwide. The company's leasing activities are integrated with engine and aircraft trading, engine lease pools, and asset management services through Willis Mitsui & Co. Asset Management Limited.

Willis Lease Finance Corporation has closed the acquisition of three Airbus A330-300 aircraft that will be leased to China Airlines and EVA Air. The transaction marks a strategic expansion of the company's portfolio, capitalizing on strong demand for high-quality aviation assets. The deal reflects the company's commitment to supporting customers amid fleet growth and delivery delays.

Austin C. Willis, Chief Executive Officer of WLFC, highlighted the current market environment as a compelling opportunity to deploy capital. He noted that operators are navigating ongoing maintenance capacity constraints, driving demand for both assets and aftermarket services. This acquisition aligns with the company's strategy to grow its portfolio and enhance its global service offerings.

Willis Lease Finance Corporation leases large and regional spare commercial aircraft engines and aircraft to airlines, manufacturers, and maintenance providers worldwide. Its integrated services include engine and aircraft trading, lease pools, and asset management through Willis Mitsui & Co. Asset Management Limited. The company also provides end-of-life solutions for engines and aviation materials via Willis Aeronautical Services, Inc.

The company's service offerings encompass Part 145 engine maintenance, aircraft line and base maintenance, and disassembly. Additional services include parking and storage, airport FBO operations, and ground and cargo handling through Willis Engine Repair Center®, Jet Centre by Willis, and Willis Aviation Services Limited.

Key Details of the Acquisition

The acquisition underscores Willis Lease Finance Corporation's ability to leverage market conditions to strengthen its asset base. The company continues to focus on meeting changing customer demands while navigating industry trends and economic factors.