Willis Lease (NASDAQ: WLFC) Q1 2026 profit jumps 53% and $0.40 dividend
Filing Impact
Filing Sentiment
Form Type
8-K
Rhea-AI Filing Summary
Willis Lease Finance Corporation reported strong first quarter 2026 results with total revenue of $194.3 million, up 23.2% from the same period in 2025. Net income attributable to common shareholders rose to $23.7 million, a 52.9% increase, and diluted EPS reached $3.26.
The company achieved record quarterly lease rent revenue of $77.4 million and record maintenance services revenue of $9.8 million, while portfolio utilization improved to 85.8%. Adjusted EBITDA grew to $123.8 million, up 19.9%. The Board also declared a quarterly dividend of $0.40 per share, payable May 22, 2026 to shareholders of record on May 11, 2026.
Positive
- Strong earnings growth: Q1 2026 net income attributable to common shareholders rose 52.9% to $23.7 million, with diluted EPS increasing 47.5% to $3.26, supported by a 23.2% rise in total revenue to $194.3 million.
- Operational momentum: Record quarterly lease rent revenue of $77.4 million and record maintenance services revenue of $9.8 million, alongside higher portfolio utilization of 85.8%, signal stronger deployment and demand for the company’s engine and service portfolio.
- Robust cash-generation metric: Adjusted EBITDA increased 19.9% to $123.8 million for Q1 2026, highlighting solid cash-flow capacity from core leasing and services despite higher general and administrative and technical expenses.
- Shareholder return via dividend: The Board declared a quarterly dividend of $0.40 per common share, payable May 22, 2026 to shareholders of record on May 11, 2026, providing direct income alongside earnings growth.
Negative
- None.
Insights
WLFC delivered broad-based Q1 2026 growth and raised shareholder returns via a higher-visibility dividend.
Willis Lease Finance Corporation posted Q1 2026 revenue of $194.3 million, up 23.2%, with net income attributable to common shareholders rising 52.9% to $23.7 million. Growth was driven by record lease rent revenue of $77.4 million, record maintenance services revenue of $9.8 million, and a gain on sale of leased equipment of $18.0 million.
Profitability expanded as income from operations increased 41.4% to $33.8 million and Adjusted EBITDA reached $123.8 million, up 19.9%. Portfolio utilization improved to 85.8%, indicating stronger deployment of assets. Debt obligations decreased from $2,700.3 million at December 31, 2025 to $2,253.7 million at March 31, 2026, while cash and restricted cash shifted in mix.
The Board declared a quarterly dividend of $0.40 per share, payable on May 22, 2026 to shareholders of record on May 11, 2026, reinforcing a direct capital return alongside growth. Subsequent filings and earnings updates may provide further detail on sustainability of utilization, asset sales gains, and non-recurring items such as debt extinguishment costs.
8-K Event Classification
3 items: 2.02, 8.01, 9.01
3 items
Item 2.02
Results of Operations and Financial Condition
Financial
Disclosure of earnings results, typically an earnings press release or preliminary financials.
Item 8.01
Other Events
Other
Voluntary disclosure of events the company deems important to shareholders but not covered by other items.
Item 9.01
Financial Statements and Exhibits
Exhibits
Financial statements, pro forma financial information, and exhibit attachments filed with this report.
Key Figures
Total revenue: $194.3 million
Net income attributable to common shareholders: $23.7 million
Diluted EPS: $3.26 per share
+5 more
8 metrics
Total revenue
$194.3 million
Three months ended March 31, 2026; 23.2% increase vs Q1 2025
Net income attributable to common shareholders
$23.7 million
Three months ended March 31, 2026; 52.9% increase vs Q1 2025
Diluted EPS
$3.26 per share
Three months ended March 31, 2026; up from $2.21 in Q1 2025
Adjusted EBITDA
$123.8 million
Three months ended March 31, 2026; 19.9% increase vs Q1 2025
Quarterly dividend
$0.40 per common share
Declared for second quarter 2026, payable May 22, 2026
Lease rent revenue
$77.4 million
Q1 2026 record lease rent; 14.2% increase vs Q1 2025
Maintenance services revenue
$9.8 million
Q1 2026 record maintenance services; 74.9% increase vs Q1 2025
Portfolio utilization
85.8%
Utilization at quarter end March 31, 2026; up from 79.9%
Key Terms
Adjusted EBITDA, maintenance reserve revenue, lease rent revenue, loss on debt extinguishment, +2 more
6 terms
Adjusted EBITDA financial
"Adjusted EBITDA was approximately $123.8 million and $103.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025, respectively."
Adjusted EBITDA is a way companies measure how much money they make from their core operations, like running a business, by removing certain costs or income that aren’t part of regular business activities. It helps investors see how well a company is doing without distractions from unusual expenses or gains, making it easier to compare companies or track performance over time.
maintenance reserve revenue financial
"Maintenance reserve revenue | 55,512 | | | 54,859 | | | 1.2 | %"
Maintenance reserve revenue is money a company receives specifically to cover future upkeep or repairs on an asset, like machinery, vehicles, or leased equipment. Think of it as a repair fund paid in advance by a customer: investors watch it because it boosts cash flow now but may not represent actual profit until the related maintenance work is done, so it affects how you judge a company’s true earnings and future repair costs.
lease rent revenue financial
"Lease rent revenue | $ | 77,385 | | | $ | 67,739 | | | 14.2 | %"
loss on debt extinguishment financial
"Add: Loss on debt extinguishment | 7,027 | | | — |"
Loss on debt extinguishment is a one-time accounting charge a company records when it pays off, refinances, or otherwise cancels debt for more than the outstanding amount on its books — think of it like paying a penalty to break a loan early. Investors care because it reduces reported earnings in the period it’s recorded and uses cash, but it can also signal a strategic move to cut future interest costs or a sign of financial stress.
non-GAAP financial measure financial
"We use Adjusted EBITDA, a non-GAAP financial measure, to evaluate our business."
A non-GAAP financial measure is a way companies present their financial results that excludes certain expenses or income to show how they believe their core business is performing. It matters because it can give a clearer picture of how the company is really doing, but it can also be used to make results look better than they actually are.
portfolio utilization financial
"Portfolio utilization increased to 85.8% at quarter end, compared to 79.9%."
Earnings Snapshot
Total revenue: $194.3 million
Q1 2026
Total revenue
$194.3 million
+23.2% YoY
Net income attributable to common shareholders
$23.7 million
+52.9% YoY
Diluted EPS
$3.26
+47.5% YoY
Adjusted EBITDA
$123.8 million
+19.9% YoY
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
______________________________________________________________________
FORM 8-K
CURRENT REPORT
PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
______________________________________________________________________
Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported): May 5, 2026
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Charter)
| (State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation) | (Commission File Number) | (I.R.S. Employer Identification Number) | ||||||||||||
(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (561 ) 349-9989
Not Applicable
(Former name or former address, if changed since last report)
Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions:
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
| Title of Each Class | Trading Symbol | Name of exchange on which registered | ||||||||||||
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 (§230.405 of this chapter) or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (§240.12b-2 of this chapter).
Emerging growth company ☐
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. o
Item 2.02 Results of Operations and Financial Condition.
On May 5, 2026, Willis Lease Finance Corporation (the “Company”) issued a news release setting forth the Company’s results from operations for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and financial condition as of March 31, 2026. A copy of the news release is attached hereto as Exhibit 99.1 and is incorporated herein by reference.
The information and exhibit furnished under this Item 2.02 shall not be deemed “filed” for the purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), or incorporated by reference in any filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Exchange Act, except as expressly set forth by specific reference in such a filing.
Item 8.01 Other Events.
On April 29, 2026, the Company’s Board of Directors declared the Company’s quarterly dividend of $0.40 per share of common stock outstanding. The dividend is expected to be paid on May 22, 2026, to stockholders of record at the close of business on May 11, 2026. A copy of the news release announcing the quarterly dividend is attached hereto as Exhibit 99.1 and is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 9.01 Financial Statements & Exhibits.
| Exhibit No. | Description | |||||||
| 99.1 | News Release issued by Willis Lease Finance Corporation dated May 5, 2026. | |||||||
| 99.2 | Investor Presentation issued by Willis Lease Finance Corporation dated May 5, 2026. | |||||||
| 104 | Cover Page Interactive Data File (embedded within the Inline XBRL document) | |||||||
2
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned duly authorized officer.
Dated: May 5, 2026
| WILLIS LEASE FINANCE CORPORATION | ||||||||
| By: | /s/ Scott B. Flaherty | |||||||
| Scott B. Flaherty | ||||||||
| Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer | ||||||||
3
Exhibit 99.1
CONTACT: | Scott B. Flaherty | |||||||
| NEWS RELEASE | Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer | |||||||
| 561.413.0112 | ||||||||
Record Quarterly Lease Rent Revenue
Reported in Willis Lease Finance Corporation’s First Quarter 2026 Financial Results
Declares Second Quarter 2026 Dividend of $0.40 Per Share
COCONUT CREEK, FL — May 5, 2026 — 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 its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2026. The Company also announced a quarterly dividend of $0.40 per share of common stock outstanding. The dividend is expected to be paid on May 22, 2026 to shareholders of record at the close of business on May 11, 2026.
First Quarter 2026 Highlights (All metrics compared to first quarter 2025, except where noted)
•Quarterly total revenue of $194.3 million, an increase of 23.2%
•Income from operations of $33.8 million, an increase of 41.4%
•Quarterly pre-tax income of $36.8 million, an increase of 45.9%
•Diluted weighted average income per common share of $3.26, an increase of 47.5%
•Record high quarterly lease rent revenue of $77.4 million, an increase of 14.2%
•Record high quarterly maintenance services revenue of $9.8 million, an increase of 74.9%
•Gain on sale of leased equipment of $18.0 million, and increase of 304.8%
•Net income attributable to common shareholders of $23.7 million, an increase of 52.9%
•Adjusted EBITDA of $123.8 million, an increase of 19.9%
•Portfolio utilization increased to 85.8% at quarter end, compared to 79.9%
For the three months ended March 31, 2026, total revenue was $194.3 million, up 23.2% as compared to $157.7 million for the same period in 2025. For the first quarter of 2026, core lease rent and maintenance reserve revenues were $132.9 million in the aggregate, up 8.4% as compared to $122.6 million for the same period in 2025. The growth was predominantly driven by core lease and maintenance revenues associated with the continued strength of the aviation marketplace, as airlines leverage the Company’s extensive portfolio of in-demand engines as well as our parts and maintenance capabilities to avoid protracted, expensive engine shop visits.
“In the first quarter we outperformed nearly every revenue and earnings metric compared to Q1 2025,” said Austin Willis, CEO of WLFC, “and, thanks to the capital strategy we executed, we are poised for significant growth.”
First Quarter 2026 Operating Results
Lease rent revenue increased by $9.6 million, or 14.2%, to $77.4 million in the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $67.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. The increase is due to an increase in the average size of the portfolio as compared to that of the prior year period as well as an increase in average utilization (based on net book value of equipment held for operating lease, maintenance rights, and notes receivable and investments in sales-type leases net of allowances) of equipment held in our operating lease portfolio.
During the first quarter of 2026, the Company recognized $12.4 million of long-term maintenance revenue, compared to $9.6 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2025. Long-term maintenance is recognized at the end of a lease period as the related maintenance reserve liability is released from the balance sheet.
For the quarter ended March 31, 2026, the gain on sale of leased equipment was $18.0 million, reflecting the sale of 14 engines from the lease portfolio. During the three months ended March 31, 2025, the Company sold seven engines, one airframe, and other parts and equipment for a net gain of $4.4 million.
In March 2026, the Company’s investment fund partnership with Liberty Mutual Investments commenced operations.
The book value of lease assets owned either directly or through WLFC’s joint ventures, inclusive of the Company’s equipment held for operating lease, maintenance rights, notes receivable, and investments in sales-type leases was $3,563.5 million as of March 31, 2026.
NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
Adjusted EBITDA
We analyze our financial data to evaluate the health of our business and assess our performance. As appropriate, in addition to income or loss from operations under GAAP, we use Adjusted EBITDA, a non-GAAP financial measure, to evaluate our business. We believe that this non-GAAP financial measure provides meaningful supplemental information regarding our performance as it excludes certain items that may not be indicative of our recurring operating results. We also believe that investors, in addition to management, benefit from referring to this non-GAAP financial measure in assessing our performance, when viewed together with our GAAP results. While items excluded from Adjusted EBITDA may be recurring in nature and should not be disregarded in evaluating performance, it can be useful to exclude such items as they can vary significantly between periods and or not be indicative of current or future operating results.
Because non-GAAP financial measures are not standardized, our calculation of Adjusted EBITDA may differ from similarly titled non-GAAP measures, if any, reported by other companies. This non-GAAP financial measure should not be considered in insolation from, or as a substitute for, financial information performed in accordance with GAAP.
We define Adjusted EBITDA as net income attributable to common shareholders, excluding (i) income tax expense, (ii) interest expense, (iii) preferred stock dividends/costs, (iv) loss on debt extinguishment, (v) depreciation and amortization expense, (vi) stock compensation expense, (vii) write-down of equipment, (viii) acquisition, financing and divestitures related expenses, and (ix) other items not indicative of our ongoing operating performance.
Adjusted EBITDA was approximately $123.8 million and $103.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025, respectively. See below for the reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to the most directly comparable GAAP measure, net income attributable to common shareholders.
| Three months ended March 31, | |||||||||||
| 2026 | 2025 | ||||||||||
| (in thousands) | |||||||||||
| Net income attributable to common shareholders | $ | 23,661 | $ | 15,476 | |||||||
| Add: Income tax expense | 11,755 | 8,385 | |||||||||
| Add: Interest expense | 32,633 | 32,094 | |||||||||
| Add: Preferred stock dividends/costs | 1,422 | 1,393 | |||||||||
| Add: Loss on debt extinguishment | 7,027 | — | |||||||||
| Add: Depreciation and amortization expense | 30,178 | 25,024 | |||||||||
| Add: Stock compensation expense | 13,752 | 6,907 | |||||||||
| Add: Write-down of equipment | 1,149 | 2,109 | |||||||||
| Add: Acquisition, financing and divestitures related expenses | 2,242 | 166 | |||||||||
| Add: Other (1) | 28 | 11,777 | |||||||||
| Adjusted EBITDA | $ | 123,847 | $ | 103,331 | |||||||
________________________________________________________
1.In Q1 2026 and 2025, the Company recognized $0.03 million and $11.8 million, respectively, in non-recurring project expenses associated with the sustainable aviation fuels project, which the Company decided to cease investment in and pursue strategic alternatives for, including, a potential sale.
Balance Sheet
As of March 31, 2026, the Company’s lease portfolio was $2,857.0 million, consisting of $2,760.5 million of equipment held in its operating lease portfolio, $65.6 million of notes receivable, $30.6 million of maintenance rights, and $0.3 million of investments in sales-type leases, which represented 342 engines, 20 aircraft, one marine vessel, and other leased parts and equipment. As of December 31, 2025, the Company’s lease portfolio was $2,988.9 million, consisting of $2,801.7 million of equipment held in its operating lease portfolio, $139.9 million of notes receivable, $30.6 million of maintenance rights, and $16.6 million of investments in sales-type leases, which represented 363 engines, 20 aircraft, one marine vessel, and other leased parts and equipment.
Conference Call
WLFC will hold a conference call led by the executive management team today at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time to discuss its first quarter 2026 results.
To participate in the conference call, please use the following dial-in numbers:
U.S. and Canada: +1 (800) 330-6730
International: +1 (786) 297-8585
Conference ID: 3012326
Participant Passcode: 989617
The conference call may also be accessed by registering via the following link:
https://event.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1759374&tp_key=c0ab3b632b.
A digital replay will be available two hours after the completion of the conference call. To access the replay, please visit the Investor Relations sections of our website at https://www.wlfc.global/investor-center.
About Willis Lease Finance Corporation
Willis Lease Finance Corporation (WLFC) leases large and regional spare commercial aircraft engines and aircraft to airlines, aircraft engine manufacturers and maintenance, repair and overhaul providers worldwide. These leasing activities are integrated with engine and aircraft trading, engine lease pools and asset management services, as well as various end-of-life solutions for engines and aviation materials provided through Willis Aeronautical Services, Inc. Additionally, through Willis Engine Repair Center®, Jet Centre
by Willis, and Willis Aviation Services Limited, the Company’s service offerings include Part 145 engine maintenance, aircraft line and base maintenance, aircraft disassembly, parking and storage, airport FBO, and ground and cargo handling services.
Forward-Looking Statements
Except for historical information, the matters discussed in this press release contain forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Do not unduly rely on forward-looking statements, which give only expectations about the future and are not guarantees. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve a number of inherent risks, uncertainties and assumptions and are subject to change in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. These risks, uncertainties and assumptions could adversely affect the outcome and financial effects of the plans and events described herein. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we undertake no obligation to update them to reflect any change in the Company’s expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which the forward-looking statement is based, except as required by law. Our actual results may differ materially from the results discussed, either expressly or implicitly, in forward-looking statements. Factors that might cause such a difference include, but are not limited to: the effects on the airline industry and the global economy of events such as war, terrorist activity and natural disasters; changes in oil prices, rising inflation and other disruptions to world markets; trends in the airline industry and our ability to capitalize on those trends, including growth rates of markets and other economic factors, as well as the impact of new or increased tariffs; risks associated with owning and leasing jet engines and aircraft; our ability to successfully negotiate equipment purchases, sales and leases, to collect outstanding amounts due and to control costs and expenses; changes in interest rates and availability of capital, both to us and our customers; our ability to continue to meet changing customer demands; regulatory changes affecting airline operations, aircraft maintenance, accounting standards and taxes; the market value of engines and other assets in our portfolio; and risks detailed in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and other continuing and current reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. It is advisable, however, to consult any further disclosures the Company makes on related subjects in such filings. These statements constitute the Company’s cautionary statements under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.
Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income
(In thousands, except per share data)
| Three months ended March 31, | |||||||||||||||||
| 2026 | 2025 | % Change | |||||||||||||||
| REVENUE | |||||||||||||||||
| Lease rent revenue | $ | 77,385 | $ | 67,739 | 14.2 | % | |||||||||||
| Maintenance reserve revenue | 55,512 | 54,859 | 1.2 | % | |||||||||||||
| Spare parts and equipment sales | 21,687 | 18,240 | 18.9 | % | |||||||||||||
| Interest revenue | 2,788 | 3,934 | (29.1) | % | |||||||||||||
| Gain on sale of leased equipment | 17,959 | 4,437 | 304.8 | % | |||||||||||||
| Gain on sale of financial assets | 438 | 378 | 15.9 | % | |||||||||||||
| Maintenance services revenue | 9,769 | 5,586 | 74.9 | % | |||||||||||||
| Management and advisory fees | 7,895 | 1,963 | 302.2 | % | |||||||||||||
| Other revenue | 913 | 596 | 53.2 | % | |||||||||||||
| Total revenue | 194,346 | 157,732 | 23.2 | % | |||||||||||||
| EXPENSES | |||||||||||||||||
| Depreciation and amortization expense | 30,178 | 25,024 | 20.6 | % | |||||||||||||
| Cost of spare parts and equipment sales | 14,417 | 15,323 | (5.9) | % | |||||||||||||
| Cost of maintenance services | 8,860 | 5,329 | 66.3 | % | |||||||||||||
| Write-down of equipment | 1,149 | 2,109 | (45.5) | % | |||||||||||||
| General and administrative | 56,604 | 47,720 | 18.6 | % | |||||||||||||
| Technical expense | 9,688 | 6,230 | 55.5 | % | |||||||||||||
| Net finance costs: | |||||||||||||||||
| Interest expense | 32,633 | 32,094 | 1.7 | % | |||||||||||||
| Loss on debt extinguishment | 7,027 | — | nm | ||||||||||||||
| Total net finance costs | 39,660 | 32,094 | 23.6 | % | |||||||||||||
| Total expenses | 160,556 | 133,829 | 20.0 | % | |||||||||||||
| Income from operations | 33,790 | 23,903 | 41.4 | % | |||||||||||||
| Income from investments | 3,048 | 1,351 | 125.6 | % | |||||||||||||
| Income before income taxes | 36,838 | 25,254 | 45.9 | % | |||||||||||||
| Income tax expense | 11,755 | 8,385 | 40.2 | % | |||||||||||||
| Net income | 25,083 | 16,869 | 48.7 | % | |||||||||||||
| Preferred stock dividends | 1,353 | 1,323 | 2.3 | % | |||||||||||||
| Accretion of preferred stock issuance costs | 69 | 70 | (1.4) | % | |||||||||||||
| Net income attributable to common shareholders | $ | 23,661 | $ | 15,476 | 52.9 | % | |||||||||||
| Basic weighted average income per common share | $ | 3.49 | $ | 2.34 | |||||||||||||
| Diluted weighted average income per common share | $ | 3.26 | $ | 2.21 | |||||||||||||
| Basic weighted average common shares outstanding | 6,778 | 6,606 | |||||||||||||||
| Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding | 7,252 | 7,000 | |||||||||||||||
Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
(In thousands, except per share data)
| March 31, 2026 | December 31, 2025 | |||||||||||||
| ASSETS | ||||||||||||||
| Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 24,554 | $ | 16,441 | ||||||||||
| Restricted cash | 196,023 | 530,500 | ||||||||||||
| Equipment held for operating lease, less accumulated depreciation | 2,760,517 | 2,801,683 | ||||||||||||
| Maintenance rights | 30,576 | 30,632 | ||||||||||||
| Equipment held for sale | 14,764 | 20,509 | ||||||||||||
| Receivables, net | 38,886 | 35,717 | ||||||||||||
| Spare parts inventory | 56,321 | 56,577 | ||||||||||||
| Investments | 128,996 | 104,250 | ||||||||||||
| Property, equipment & furnishings, less accumulated depreciation | 75,767 | 73,835 | ||||||||||||
| Intangible assets, net | 271 | 271 | ||||||||||||
| Notes receivable, net | 65,551 | 139,945 | ||||||||||||
| Investments in sales-type leases, net | 344 | 16,595 | ||||||||||||
| Due from affiliates | 229 | — | ||||||||||||
| Other assets | 113,386 | 109,360 | ||||||||||||
| Total assets | $ | 3,506,185 | $ | 3,936,315 | ||||||||||
| LIABILITIES, REDEEMABLE PREFERRED STOCK AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY | ||||||||||||||
| Liabilities: | ||||||||||||||
| Accounts payable and accrued expenses | $ | 72,636 | $ | 105,706 | ||||||||||
| Deferred income taxes | 240,112 | 228,547 | ||||||||||||
| Debt obligations | 2,253,705 | 2,700,338 | ||||||||||||
| Maintenance reserves | 124,562 | 116,185 | ||||||||||||
| Security deposits | 24,398 | 24,651 | ||||||||||||
| Unearned revenue | 32,928 | 35,350 | ||||||||||||
| Total liabilities | 2,748,341 | 3,210,777 | ||||||||||||
| Redeemable preferred stock ($0.01 par value) | 63,470 | 63,401 | ||||||||||||
| Shareholders’ equity: | ||||||||||||||
| Common stock ($0.01 par value) | 77 | 76 | ||||||||||||
| Paid-in capital in excess of par | 83,751 | 72,663 | ||||||||||||
| Retained earnings | 611,333 | 590,785 | ||||||||||||
| Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax | (787) | (1,387) | ||||||||||||
| Total shareholders’ equity | 694,374 | 662,137 | ||||||||||||
| Total liabilities, redeemable preferred stock and shareholders’ equity | $ | 3,506,185 | $ | 3,936,315 | ||||||||||
Q1 2026 EARNINGS CALL Date May 5, 2026 Time 10:00 AM EST Presenters Austin C. Willis Scott B. Flaherty
2 DISCLAIMER Forward Looking Statements This presentation contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Some of the forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking words. Statements that are not historical in nature, including ‘‘anticipate,’’ ‘‘may,’’ ‘‘estimate,’’ ‘‘should,’’ ‘‘expect,’’ ‘‘plan,’’ ‘‘believe,’’ ‘‘intend,’’ and similar words, or the negatives of those words, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. They also include statements containing a projection of revenues, earnings (loss), capital expenditures, dividends, capital structure or other financial terms. Certain statements regarding the following particularly are forward- looking in nature: Willis Lease Financial Corporation (the "Company" or "WLFC")’s business strategy; WEST’s business strategy and assumptions used to develop the cash flow models; future performance, developments, market forecasts or projections; and WLFC’s projected capital expenditures. All forward-looking statements are based on our beliefs, assumptions and expectations of future economic performance, taking into account the information currently available. These statements are not statements of historical fact. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of factors, risks and uncertainties, some of which are not currently known and many of which are beyond WLFC’s and WEST’s control, which may cause actual results, performance or financial condition to be materially different from the stated expectations of future results, performance or financial position, as well as those included in the cash flow models. Our actual results may differ materially from the results discussed in forward-looking statements. Factors that might cause such a difference include, but are not limited to: the effects on the airline industry and the global economy of events such as terrorist activity; changes in fuel prices and other disruptions to the world markets and the global economy of geopolitical, weather, cybersecurity, humanitarian and other events, including but not limited to war and terrorist activity; trends in the airline industry, including growth rates of markets and other economic factors; risks associated with owning and leasing commercial engines and aircraft; changes in interest rates and availability of capital to us and to our customers; our ability to continue to meet our customers’ changing demands; the market value of engines and other assets in our portfolio; regulatory changes affecting commercial aircraft operators, aircraft maintenance, engine standards, accounting standards and taxes; and WLFC’s, in its capacity as Servicer, ability to successfully negotiate engine purchases, sales and leases, to collect outstanding amounts due, and to repossess engines under defaulted leases, and to control costs and expenses. further information regarding these and other risks is included in WLFC's most recent U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") filings, including its Annual and Quarterly Reports on Forms 10-K and 10-Q, respectively, filed with the SEC under the heading “Risk Factors.” In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of presentation or as of the date of any document incorporated by reference, as applicable. Such forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, and actual results may differ from expectations. We are not under any obligation, and we expressly disclaim any obligation, to update or alter any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Non-GAAP Financial Measures In this presentation, WLFC presents certain non-GAAP measures, including EBITDA, EBITDA Margin, Free Cash Flow and similar measures, which are not required by, or presented in accordance with, GAAP. While WLFC believes these are useful metrics, companies use these metrics for differing purposes and they are often calculated in ways that reflect the particular circumstances of those companies. You should exercise caution in comparing the non-GAAP metrics reported by us to such metrics or other similar metrics as reported by other companies. Our non-GAAP metrics have limitations as analytical tools, and you should not consider them in isolation. The non-GAAP financial information presented herein is provided in addition to, not as a substitute for, or superior to, financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP and should not be considered as alternatives to any performance measures derived in accordance with GAAP. A reconciliation of EBITDA, a non-GAAP financial measure, to its most directly comparable GAAP measure, can be found on slide 17 of this presentation. The distribution of this presentation in certain jurisdictions may be restricted by law. Those persons into whose possession this presentation comes are required to inform themselves about and to observe any such restrictions. This presentation does not constitute an offer to any person or to the public generally to subscribe for or otherwise acquire any securities. This presentation has been prepared solely for informational purposes and is not intended to serve as the basis for any investment decision. Under no circumstances is this presentation or the information contained herein to be construed as a prospectus, offering memorandum or advertisement and neither any part of this written or oral presentation nor any information or statement contained herein or therein shall form the basis of or be relied upon in connection with any contract or commitment whatsoever. This presentation does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities in any jurisdiction where such an offer or solicitation would be unlawful.
3 KEY TAKEAWAYS differentiated offerings and strong performance strong aviation leasing market dynamics growing maintenance and repair demand a flywheel effect across the Willis Platform® long-term growth and shareholder returns ENABLES LEVERAGES CAPTURES ACCELERATES SUPPORTS Vertically Integrated Platform Core Leasing Business Services Willis Aviation Capital (WAC) Strong Balance Sheet
4 Q1 2026 FINANCIAL RESULTS BUILD ON STRONG TRACK RECORD Information as of March 31, 2026 unless otherwise denoted (1) As represented by WLFC Portfolio of Leased Assets, Notes Receivable, Investments in Sales-type Leases, Maintenance Rights, Leased Assets in Joint Venture, Third-Party Managed Assets, and Managed Funds portfolios as of March 31, 2026 (2) Calculated as Last Twelve Months (LTM) Net Income Attributable to Common Shareholders / average of Shareholder’s Equity as of March 31, 2026 (3) Calculated as (total Debt Obligations - Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash) / (Preferred Equity + Total Shareholder’s Equity) (4) Blended utilization and on-lease lease rate factor reflect WLFC’s owned portfolio (5) Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP measure and reconciled to Net income attributable to common shareholders in the appendix $194.3M $23.7M 86% $4.1B(1) $123.8M(5) 2.68x(3) With on-lease lease rate factor of 1.04% per month (4) REVENUE NET INCOME TO SHAREHOLDERS BLENDED UTILIZATION (4) ASSETS UNDER MANAGEMENT Adjusted EBITDA NET DEBT / EQUITY Return on Equity of 19% (2)
5 $48 $159 SPARE PARTS & EQUIPMENT SALES Spare parts sales driven by strong demand and portfolio activity Equipment sales increased to $11.4M (vs. $2.2M, +418% YoY), driven by higher engine and aircraft activity $18.2 $21.719% Q1 2025 Q1 2026 MAINTENANCE RESERVE Recognized $12.4M of long-term maintenance reserve revenue compared to $9.6M (+29% YoY) Short-term maintenance reserve revenue was $43.1M compared to $45.3M $54.9 $55.5 1% Q1 2025 Q1 2026 LEASE RENT Utilization increased to 85.8% (vs. 79.9% YoY) Record lease rent of $77.4M (+14% YoY) Stable lease rate factor (1.04%) across asset generations Growth driven by next-gen assets and improved lease dynamics $67.7 $77.4 14% Q1 2025 Q1 2026 Driven by continued strength of the aviation marketplace CONSISTENT GROWTH ACROSS ENTIRE PLATFORM PORTFOLIO ASSET SALES Sales increased to $159M (+232% YoY), driven by strong demand of the aircraft engine market Increase in sales price on a per engine basis reflecting the appreciation in market value of our assets 232% Q1 2025 Q1 2026
6 PROFITABILITY & CASHFLOWS Net income, EPS, and adjusted EBITDA Net Income $23.7M of Net Income representing 53% growth YoY $3.26 diluted weighted average income per common share representing 48% growth YoY Revenue growth across virtually all sales channels Increased margins on Income from Operations benefiting from increased business scale $15.5 $23.7 53% Q1 2025 Q1 2026 Diluted EPS $2.21 $3.26 48% Q1 2025 Q1 2026 Adjusted EBITDA Adjusted EBITDA of $123.8M up 20% YoY Reflecting the strong YoY growth in operating performance and the cash- generating characteristics of the business $103.3 $123.8 20% Q1 2025 Q1 2026
7 Engine & Aircraft Leasing Regional & Specialty Assets Engine & Aircraft Lease & Loan Financing ConstantAccess® / ConstantThrust® Aircraft for Engine Strategy Engine Maintenance & Disassembly (US/UK) CFM56-5B/7B Test Cell (US) – Coming Soon! Aircraft Line & Base Maintenance, Parking & Storage, Disassembly (UK) Material Solutions & Services for Engines & Airframes (US/UK) Airport FBO & Handling Services (UK) Aircraft & Powerplant Consultancy & CAMO Institutional-backed Capital at Scale Leasing, Loans & Loan-like Products Repeatable Programmatic Funding with Low Execution Risk Long-standing Joint Ventures with Highly Reputable Partners Large Managed Asset Portfolio PLATFORM OFFERS DIFFERENTIATED CAPABILITIES TO CUSTOMERS
8 Encouraged by early traction, with a strong pipeline of opportunities in 2026. WILLIS AVIATION CAPITAL ENHANCES WLFC PORTFOLIO Transforms WLFC from balance-sheet lessor to scaled aviation asset manager >$1.0BBlackstone Credit & Insurance Engine leasing Up to $600M $86M funded in Q1 Liberty Mutual Investments Funds growing credit strategy $707M 50/50 Joint Ventures Willis Mitsui & Co. CASC Willis Engine Leasing Co. $392MManaged Assets(1) Owned by airlines and investors REVENUE Generates recurring income streams to drive premium returns on equity (2) (3) (4) (5) (1) Managed Assets are portfolios managed by WLFC but hold no equity investment in the assets (2) Willis Aviation Services Limited is our airframe maintenance facility in the UK and is certified to perform all C checks on 737NG and up to 6-year checks on a320ceo aircraft (3) Willis Aeronautical Services, Inc. offers spare parts and materials & maintains a constantly changing inventory (4) Willis Mitsui & Co. Asset Management Limited provides independent aviation consultancy, advisory solutions, and technical services across a broad spectrum of engine types (5) Willis Engine Repair Center conducts maintenance repair and overhaul services on our owned engine portfolio and third-party assets in the USA and the UK VOLUME Increases the volume of assets serviced across WLFC and JV businesses ORIGINATION Enables origination opportunities by allowing larger single transitions SCALE Improves scale by enabling programmatic investments and lessee diversification BALANCE SHEET Supports balance sheet deleveraging CUSTOMER VALUE Competitive low-cost financing for existing customer base Willis Aviation Capital (WAC)
9 SCALING A CAPITAL-LIGHT ASSET MANAGEMENT PLATFORM Leveraging our industry-leading Wil l is Platform® to bring attract ive returns to our par tners and enhance enterprise value (1) Does not include additional capacity at WLFC or Joint Ventures (2) Reflects committed capital as of December 31, 2025. (3) Managed Assets are portfolios managed by WLFC but holds no equity investment in the assets (4) Investment partnership with Liberty Mutual Investments; funded approximately $86 million of finance leases in Q1 2026 (5) Investment partnership with Blackstone Credit & Insurance WLFC 50/50 Joint Ventures $1B+ (2) Managed Assets(3) AUM: $4.1 B+(1) as of 3/31/2026 WLFC LMI(4) WLFC BX(5) $2.8B+ committed and managed capital $600M(2) $86M(4) $2.9B $707M $392M (2) 1 (2)
10 Visible pipeline driving near-term earnings growth Supply-demand imbalance creating attractive deployment opportunities Willis Aviation Capital (WAC) scaling to unlock incremental, fee-based revenue ~$4.1B AUM(1) in high-demand assets Broad diversification across OEMs, customers, and geographies Structural supply constraints supporting lease demand and yields UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY IN AVIATION (1) As represented by WLFC Portfolio of Leased Assets, Notes Receivable, Investments in Sales-type Leases, Maintenance Rights, Leased Assets in Joint Ventures, Third-Party Managed Assets, and Managed Funds portfolios as of March 31, 2026 Proven leadership team with deep aviation leasing track record Differentiated Willis Platform® enabling capital-efficient growth Strong balance sheet supporting consistent financial performance Right Platform Right Market Right Time The right platform in the right market at the right time
APPENDIX
Consolidated Quarterly Statements of Income 1
13 Consolidated Quarterly Statements of Income (unaudited) Q1 2026Q1 2025in (000s) $ 77,385$ 67,739 Lease rent revenue 55,51254,859 Maintenance reserve revenue 21,687 18,240 Spare parts and equipment sales 2,7883,934 Interest revenue 17,9594,437 Gain on sale of leased equipment 438378 Gain on sale of financial assets 9,7695,586 Maintenance services revenue 7,8951,963Management and advisory fees 913596 Other revenue $ 194,346$ 157,732 Total Revenue 30,17825,024 Depreciation and amortization expense 14,41715,323 Cost of spare parts and equipment sales 8,8605,329 Cost of maintenance services 1,1492,109 Write-down of equipment 56,60447,720 General and administrative 9,6886,230 Technical expense 39,66032,094 Net finance costs $ 160,556$ 133,829 Total Expenses 33,79023,903 Income from Operations --Gain on sale of business 3,0481,351 Income from investments $ 36,838$ 25,254 Income Before Income Taxes 11,7558,385 Income tax expense $ 25,083$ 16,869 Net Income
Consolidated Balance Sheets 2
15 Consolidated Balance Sheets December 31, 2025March 31, 2026 (1)in (000s) $ 16,441$ 24,554Cash and cash equivalents 530,500196,023Restricted cash 2,801,6832,760,517Equipment held for operating lease, less accumulated depreciation 30,63230,576Maintenance rights 20,50914,764Equipment held for sale 56,57756,321Spare parts inventory 73,83575,767Property, equipment & furnishings, less accumulated depreciation 271271Intangible assets, net 405,867347,392All Other Assets $ 3,936,315$ 3,506,185Total Assets 2,700,3382,253,705Debt, net 510,439494,636All Other Liabilities $ 3,210,777$ 2,748,341Total Liabilities 63,40163,470Redeemable preferred stock ($0.01 par value) $ 662,137$ 694,374Total shareholders’ equity $ 3,936,315$ 3,506,185Total liabilities, redeemable preferred stock and shareholders’ equity 1) Unaudited.
Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures 3
17 Adjusted EBITDA Reconciliation (unaudited)(1) Q1 2026 and Q1 2025 Q1 2025Q1 2026in (000s) $ 15,476$ 23,661Net income attributable to common shareholders 8,38511,755Add: Income tax expense 32,09432,633Add: Interest expense 1,3931,422Add: Preferred stock dividends/costs -7,027Add: Loss on debt extinguishment 25,02430,178Add: Depreciation and amortization expense 6,90713,752Add: Stock compensation expense 2,1091,149Add: Write-down of equipment 1662,242Add: Acquisition, financing and divestitures related expenses 11,77728Add: Other (2) $ 103,331$ 123,847Adjusted EBITDA 1) We define Adjusted EBITDA as net income attributable to common shareholders, excluding (i) income tax expense, (ii) interest expense, (iii) preferred stock dividends/costs, (iv) loss on debt extinguishment, (v) depreciation and amortization expense, (vi) stock compensation expense, (vii) write-down of equipment, (viii) acquisition, financing and divestitures related expenses, and (ix) other items not indicative of our ongoing operating performance. 2) In Q1 2026 and 2025, the Company recognized $0.03 million and $11.8 million, respectively, in non-recurring project expenses associated with the sustainable aviation fuels project, which the Company decided to cease investment in and pursue strategic alternatives for, including, a potential sale.
FAQ
How did Willis Lease Finance (WLFC) perform financially in Q1 2026?
Willis Lease Finance delivered strong Q1 2026 results, with total revenue of $194.3 million, up 23.2% year over year. Net income attributable to common shareholders increased 52.9% to $23.7 million, while diluted EPS rose to $3.26, reflecting broad-based operating strength.
What were Willis Lease Finance’s key revenue drivers in Q1 2026?
Key revenue drivers included record lease rent revenue of $77.4 million, up 14.2%, and record maintenance services revenue of $9.8 million, up 74.9%. The company also reported a $18.0 million gain on sale of leased equipment, significantly higher than the prior-year quarter.
How did Willis Lease Finance’s profitability change in Q1 2026?
Profitability improved meaningfully, with income from operations rising 41.4% to $33.8 million and pre-tax income increasing 45.9% to $36.8 million. Adjusted EBITDA, a non-GAAP metric, grew 19.9% to $123.8 million, underscoring stronger earnings and cash generation.
What dividend did Willis Lease Finance declare for the second quarter of 2026?
The Board declared a quarterly dividend of $0.40 per share of common stock. The dividend is expected to be paid on May 22, 2026 to shareholders of record at the close of business on May 11, 2026, offering direct cash returns to investors.
How is Willis Lease Finance’s leasing portfolio performing and utilized?
The company reported portfolio utilization of 85.8% at March 31, 2026, up from 79.9%. As of that date, the lease portfolio totaled $2,857.0 million, representing 342 engines, 20 aircraft, one marine vessel, and other leased parts and equipment across its operating and related assets.
What is Adjusted EBITDA for Willis Lease Finance and what was it in Q1 2026?
Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP measure that starts from net income attributable to common shareholders and excludes items like taxes, interest, depreciation, stock compensation, and certain non-recurring costs. For Q1 2026, Adjusted EBITDA was $123.8 million, up from $103.3 million a year earlier.
How did Willis Lease Finance’s balance sheet change by March 31, 2026?
By March 31, 2026, total assets were $3,506.2 million versus $3,936.3 million at year-end 2025, and debt obligations decreased to $2,253.7 million. Total shareholders’ equity increased to $694.4 million, reflecting retained earnings growth and higher paid-in capital.