Britten-Norman has reached a major milestone in its programme to bring full aircraft production back to Bembridge.
Supported by new investment and a wide-ranging transformation initiative, the company has completed more than 50% of the first new UK-built Islander’s assembly, while expanding its workforce and modernising its facilities here on the Isle of Wight.
Previously, major assemblies were manufactured overseas before final assembly in the UK. The new production line at Bembridge represents the return of full aircraft manufacturing to the UK, as previously reported by Island Echo.
Wing assembly of the first UK-built Islander is expected to be finished later this year, with final assembly scheduled for early 2026 ahead of first delivery in Spring 2026.
Grahame Stone, Commercial Director of Britten-Norman, says:
“This milestone marks the excellent progress by our team in relocating the Islander’s production to Bembridge. By bringing the full build to the UK, we are strengthening our capability and ensuring we can deliver new aircraft efficiently for operators worldwide.”
Since announcing its reshoring plans in 2023, Britten-Norman has invested in cutting-edge technologies, including state-of-the-art CNC equipment, and grown its workforce by more than 40% in the past 12 months. Alongside new-build progress, the company is strengthening support for operators to improve parts availability and service.
Demand for the Islander remains strong, with confirmed orders and multiple Letters of Intent already secured. With almost 1,300 Islanders delivered since the type first entered service, the aircraft continues to play a vital role in connecting communities and supporting essential services worldwide, from passenger transport and cargo to surveillance and special missions.
Brilliant news but let’s hope that the airfield can be reopened as it used to be so that these aeroplanes can once again fly in and out of it which would also be brilliant news for the island