22 June 2026
Britten-Norman says the first Islander to emerge from its new UK production line is now 75% complete, marking a significant milestone in the return of Islander manufacturing to Britain.
The aircraft, destined for the Falkland Islands Government Air Service (FIGAS), is progressing through final assembly at the company’s Bembridge facility on the Isle of Wight, with delivery still on schedule. A second airframe has already reached around 25% completion, while components for further aircraft are in production.
The development marks a major shift for Britten-Norman, which until recently relied on overseas manufacture for major assemblies before UK final assembly. Since launching its reshoring programme in 2023, the company has invested in new CNC machinery and expanded its workforce by more than 40%.
Since hitting the halfway point earlier this year, the aircraft’s build has accelerated. The fuselage and fin have been joined, fuel tank testing completed, and the 15-metre wing fitted. Installation of the undercarriage, engines and flight control systems is now underway.
Britten-Norman’s Islander is sometimes called ‘Land Rover of the Skies’ for its rough strip ability. Photo: Britten-Norman
Richard Milne, Britten-Norman’s Chief Operating Officer, said, “Each milestone brings us closer to delivering brand-new, British-built Islanders for our customers.”
The news comes as Britten-Norman celebrates 60 years since the Islander’s maiden flight from Bembridge in June 1965. More than six decades on, the rugged twin remains a familiar sight on regional routes, island-hopping services and special-mission operations worldwide.
The company says it has already secured Letters of Intent from operators in both passenger and specialist sectors, signalling strong interest as Islander production gathers pace once again in the UK.
