Xen Aviation & Services has taken delivery of a BN2T-4S Islander from Britten-Norman, marking the operator's introduction of its first aircraft of this type, as it prepares to launch regional operations in Guyana. The aircraft was completed at Britten-Norman's UK facility and will support Xen Aviation's planned commuter services in Georgetown, becoming the first BN2T-4S Islander to operate in the country.

The BN2T-4S is the enlarged turboprop variant of the Islander, offering approximately 30 per cent more cabin space and an increased MTOW of 8,925 lbs. Powered by twin Rolls-Royce 250-B17F engines, it delivers enhanced performance while retaining the Islander's long-established reputation as one of the world's leading STOL aircraft.

Purpose-designed for reliable, day-to-day operations from short, challenging and infrastructure-limited airstrips, the BN2T-4S supports consistent access in environments where runway length, surface condition and weather variability are routine considerations. This capability is well established across regions such as Guyana and the wider Caribbean, where the Islander has supported short-field operations from demanding and unprepared airstrips for decades.

The aircraft is equipped with a modern Garmin glass cockpit and integrated avionics suite, supporting enhanced situational awareness, operational safety and long-term supportability. The BN2T-4S can also be configured with full airframe de-icing, extending operational capability in more variable and demanding climates.

Britten-Norman continues to support operators worldwide with aircraft delivered to current operational standards, backed by OEM engineering, certification and through-life support.

The BN2T-4S Islander is certified in the UK, EU, US, Canada and Guyana. The aircraft is approved for up to 10 passengers, subject to local air operations regulations.

Commenting on completion, Corrin Stapleton, director of MRO at Britten-Norman says: “This delivery demonstrates our ability to provide operators with aircraft configured to a consistent, OEM-defined standard. The BN2T-4S combines turbine performance, modern avionics and the Islander's proven short-field capability, supporting reliable operations in demanding environments worldwide.”

A spokesperson for Xen Aviation adds: “Our operations depend on reliable access to remote and challenging airstrips, often in variable conditions. The BN2T-4S offers the twin-engine safety, performance, robustness and modern systems we wish to offer to our customers, while retaining the Islander's well-established short-field capability. Completing the refurbishment directly with the manufacturer gave us additional assurance as we introduce the aircraft into service.”