Here is some good news for Britten-Norman Islander aircraft operators and other stakeholders.
A major capital injection will boost production and improve aftermarket services for Britten-Norman’s Islander aircraft.
CAPITAL INJECTION
Britten-Norman, the UK’s leading manufacturer of utility aircraft, has successfully completed its second funding round, securing significant capital from Northern Ireland-based Beechlands Enterprises.
This investment will accelerate the production of the iconic Islander aircraft and transform aftermarket business.
“This welcome investment from Beechlands will enable Britten-Norman to complete its aircraft manufacturing repatriation programme, with the first aircraft destined for the Falkland Islands. We will also be focussing on our important international aftermarket operations, ensuring our long-term position as the manufacturer of choice for reliable, high-intensity, low-cost, short-field, sub-regional air transportation.” William Hynett, Britten-Norman’s CEO, commented.
SCALING UP PRODUCTION OF BRITTEN-NORMAN ISLANDER AIRCRAFT
Britten-Norman will scale up manufacturing operations in the United Kingdom to eight aircraft a year, in phase one.
Manufacturing will be focussed primarily on the unleaded piston version of the Islander, with around 20% of aircraft being delivered as turboprops.
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REDUCING DELIVERY TIMES
As part of the company’s focus on manufacturing, it will invest in more advanced manufacturing tools and machinery, enhancing component production capabilities.
These upgrades will help reduce lead times, increase output, and improve overall cost and efficiency.
NEW BOARD MEMBER
As part of the investment Patrick Cowan, former Deputy Chief Engineer at Belfast-based aeroplane manufacturer Short Brothers, will be joining Britten-Norman’s board.
Alison Rankin Frost, Director of Beechlands said, “We’re delighted to invest in Britten-Norman. Great people, great product and, now we have provided more capital, great prospects.”
BRITTEN-NORMAN ISLANDER AIRCRAFT
The Islander is one of the best-selling commercial aircraft types produced in Europe.
Although designed in the 1960s, over 750 are still in service with commercial operators around the world.
The light transport aircraft is also in service with over 30 military aviation operators across the globe.
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ABOUT BRITTEN-NORMAN
Britten-Norman is a world-leading sub-regional aircraft manufacturer specialising in twin-engine piston and turboprop STOL aircraft. The company is a UK-based SME, exporting 97% of circa 1,300 aircraft manufactured to date.
In addition to manufacturing the world-famous Islander aircraft and supporting its customers globally, Britten-Norman is a leader and innovator in future-proofing air transport.
A test and trials specialist, Britten-Norman’s research and development teams collaborate with pioneering technology innovators across all industries to help bring new technologies to market.
