2 minute read - 13th June 2023
Britten-Norman aircraft production to return to the UK
UK aircraft manufacturer Britten-Norman has revealed plans to increase production rates and to repatriate aircraft production to its historic home in Bembridge on the Isle of Wight. The move is a major change for the British SME which has been manufacturing its aircraft in Eastern Europe since the late 1960s.
Britten-Norman says it will invest in new jigs and tooling to create two additional production lines as well as modernising production and decarbonising the site with new sustainable energy initiatives. The investment is in preparation for intensified interest in the Islander aircraft following the planned launch of an OEM, zero-emissions Islander in 2026, as well as wider interest that has resulted from the introduction of finance and leasing options for the resurgent sub regional aircraft market.
Aircraft manufacturer Britten-Norman has revealed plans to increase production rates and to return aircraft production to its historic home on the Isle of Wight / Picture: Britten-Norman
In the coming months, the company will be embarking on a recruitment campaign with a focus on aircraft fitters and technicians, production engineering and supply chain roles. The expansion will also create new traineeship and apprenticeship opportunities on the Isle of Wight and in South Hampshire.
In addition to the ramp up in production, the company will be investing in its supply chain and spare parts stock holdings to support its existing operators.
William Hynett OBE, chief executive, Britten-Norman, said: “The project is a great success story for the British aircraft manufacturing industry. I am very proud to be involved in this next chapter at Britten-Norman.”
Britten-Norman will retain its 34,000 sq ft stronghold at Solent Airport Daedalus, home of the final assembly line for the Islander. The site also provides OEM aircraft refurbishment, EASA Part 145 MRO services, international field servicing, and specialist avionics and mission systems integration. As a Garmin-approved dealer, the company offers services to the wider general aviation community.