Britten-Norman and Malta-based SJC Group have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) for two brand new Islander aircraft, with an option placed for a third. SJC Group will use the aircraft to establish a fleet of fixed-wing aircraft for routes in the Mediterranean, Europe and North Africa.
The agreement also includes options to upgrade the aircraft with Britten-Norman’s Green Futures scheme, which will allow SJC the opportunity to trade its aircraft for the next-gen zero carbon hydrogen-powered Islander, scheduled to enter service from late 2026.
“We are very pleased to announce our first order with Britten-Norman, our neighbours at Safi Aviation Park,” said Simon Camilleri, Chairman of SJC Group, “and to announce plans for a new Maltese-owned aviation business. Britten-Norman are great partners and have proven market-leading aircraft in the STOL space with over 50 years of experience. Their commitment to evolving their product to zero carbon is perfectly aligned with our vision.”
Under the agreement, Britten-Norman will also facilitate the training and development of Gulf Med pilots, maintenance and ground staff at its own MRO and training facilities in Malta.
“Having made a commitment to develop our own operations in Malta, we are really pleased to have been introduced to SJC Group and are looking forward to working in close partnership to support their plans,” added William Hynett, Chief Executive, Britten-Norman. “The Islander is the ideal aircraft to complement SJC Group’s expansion into fixed-wing operations, and our planned introduction of the hydrogen Islander will further assist in supporting SJC Group deliver sustainable aviation to Malta and the Mediterranean.”
Image: Britten-Norman
