UK aircraft manufacturer Britten-Norman has revealed that it will move its aircraft production to its historic home in Bembridge on the Isle of Wight. It has also revealed plans to boost production rates.
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 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.
There has been increased interest in Britten-Norman in response to the planned launch of its zero-emissions Islander aircraft 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.
Over the next few months, the company will be embarking on a recruitment campaign. The focus will include 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.
“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,” said Chief Executive William Hynett OBE.
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.
