Britten-Norman, manufacturer of the ‘iconic’ Islander aircraft, has reached a milestone in its programme to bring full aircraft production to the company’s facility in Bembridge on the Isle of Wight, when — supported by new investment and a wide-ranging transformation initiative — it reached the point of completing more than 50% of the first new UK-built Islander’s assembly, all while expanding its workforce and modernising its facilities.
Previously, major assemblies were manufactured overseas before final assembly, but the new production line at Bembridge represents the return of full aircraft manufacturing to the UK. Wing assembly of the first UK-built Islander is expected to be finished later this year, with final assembly scheduled for early 2026 ahead of first delivery in spring 2026.
Grahame Stone, Britten-Norman’s commercial director, said: “This milestone marks the excellent progress by our team in relocating the Islander’s production to Bembridge. By bringing the full build to the UK, we are strengthening our capability and ensuring we can deliver new aircraft efficiently for operators worldwide.
“Since announcing our reshoring plans in 2023, we have invested in technologies that include advanced CNC equipment; we have also grown our workforce by more than 40% in the past 12 months. Moreover, our new production line is now well advanced, and development continues as the company prepares to ramp-up activity over the coming years to deliver new-build aircraft.’
Mr Stone also said that demand for the Islander remains strong, with confirmed orders and multiple Letters of Intent already secured. “With almost 1,300 Islanders delivered since the type first entered service, the aircraft continues to play a vital role in connecting communities and supporting essential services worldwide, from passenger transport and cargo to surveillance and special missions.”