ACE 2026 - September 8th
The bimonthly news publication for aviation professionals.
Britten-Norman, manufacturer of the Islander aircraft, has reached a major milestone in its programme to bring full aircraft production to its Bembridge facility on the Isle of Wight, UK.
Supported by new investment and a wide-ranging transformation initiative, the company has completed more than 50 per cent of the first new UK-built Islander's assembly while expanding its workforce and modernising its facilities.
Previously, major assemblies were manufactured overseas before final assembly in the UK. 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.
“This milestone marks the excellent progress by our team in relocating the Islander's production to Bembridge,” says Grahame Stone, commercial director of Britten-Norman. “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 its reshoring plans in 2023, Britten-Norman has invested in cutting-edge technologies, including state-of-the-art CNC equipment, and grown its workforce by more than 40 per cent in the past 12 months. Alongside new-build progress, the company is strengthening support for operators to improve parts availability and service.
Britten-Norman's new production line is now well advanced. Development continues as the company prepares to ramp up activity over the coming years to deliver new-build aircraft.
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.
With production ramping up, Britten-Norman can now offer operators increased access to newly built Islanders.
