Willis Lease Finance Corporation (WLFC) has completed the purchase and leaseback of six De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft from Porter Airlines Inc. The transaction, announced on March 4, 2026, involves aircraft operated by Porter from its Toronto headquarters, underscoring ongoing investment in the turboprop sector.
Austin Willis, WLFC Chief Executive Officer, stated, “This investment reflects our continued confidence in the turboprop market and complements our significant turboprop engine portfolio. We look forward to expanding our relationship with Porter through future aircraft and engine opportunities.” Robert Palmer, Porter Airlines Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, added, “Securing this agreement with WLFC introduces Porter to another experienced partner who is contributing to our growth story. The Dash 8-400 has been the foundation of our regional network for nearly 20 years and continues serving regional communities throughout our network.”
Porter operates a fleet of 29 Dash 8-400 turboprops within its total of 71 aircraft, configured with 78 seats in a 2-by-2 layout across 20 rows. These turboprops feature a length of 32.8 meters, wingspan of 28.4 meters, maximum cruise speed of 360 knots, and range of 2,040 kilometers. The airline, with hubs in Toronto, Ottawa, Montréal, and Halifax, relies on the type for regional connectivity across Canada and to U.S. destinations like Florida.
The deal highlights WLFC’s strategy of providing flexible leasing solutions to support regional operators amid turboprop demand. Porter’s network spans 65 routes to 38 destinations, backed by nearly 4,000 employees.