UK aircraft manufacturer Britten-Norman is to expand its overseas training capabilities by signing a lease on new premises at Malta International airport. While training will be the primary focus, the company is also working closely with Transport Malta's Civil Aviation Directorate to introduce other aviation-related services at the same site, including the establishment of an international Air Operator's Certificate.

Chief executive William Hynett says: “Malta benefits from favourable weather conditions and relative airspace freedom making the archipelago in the Mediterranean sea an excellent location to help broaden Britten-Norman's training output. Malta also offers a sensible solution to the group's requirement for a Brexit contingency plan in the event that the UK and EU fail to negotiate an effective bilateral relationship.”

Transport Malta director Charles Pace adds: “We are very proud to be associated with Britten-Norman and are thrilled that the company selected Malta as its jurisdiction of choice to expand its capabilities abroad. We understand Britten-Norman has high standards and this gives us confidence in processing its application. We look forward to future opportunities of expansion and the employment opportunities it will provide in Malta.”

Britten-Norman has continued to invest in training since establishing its capabilities in 2003. The company intends to continue offering training from its UK sites in addition to operating from the new Maltese hub. The company will also continue to provide selected training from customer locations worldwide.