26 September 2023
The first new Britten-Norman Islander built in the UK for 55 years is due to be completed in May next year.
Production of the Islander has just started at Bembridge on the Isle of Wight after Britten-Norman brought the manufacturing process back from Romania where it had been since the late 1960s.
The production line was officially opened by Isle of Wight MP Bob Seely last week. Britten-Norman said it expects new aircraft output to increase four-fold by 2027.
The company cites enhanced production capabilities, improved supply chain efficiency, and says it will accelerate innovation in aircraft design and manufacturing.
William Hynett CEO of Britten-Norman (left) and Bob Seely MP for Isle of Wight open the new production line
New skilled jobs will also be created and Britten-Norman has already started recruiting. Roles include aircraft fitters and technicians, production engineering and supply chain management. The expansion will also create new traineeship and apprenticeship opportunities.
Chief Executive of Britten-Norman, William Hynett, said, “We are immensely proud to bring production back to the UK, where our manufacturing story began nearly seven decades ago.
“This move underlines our dedication to the highest standards of quality, innovation, and the resurgence of British aerospace manufacturing.”
Ten new Islanders have been ordered by Australian operator Torres Strait Air as part of a £25m five-year fleet renewal process.
Torres Strait Air’s fleet of seven existing Britten-Norman Islanders form the backbone of the local community and its economy, operating vital sub-regional air transport services.
All new Islander aircraft feature full IFR glass cockpit technology, all window seating, enlarged baggage access as standard, as well as a higher All Up Mass than earlier variants.
Built in Britain, made for the world.
We have officially repatriated all of our aircraft production capability to Bembridge on the Isle of Wight!https://t.co/Pbn5HdQCkm#aviationnews #avgeek #manufacturing pic.twitter.com/A9pfjYlHL2
— Britten-Norman (@BrittenNorman) September 25, 2023
