Britten-Norman flies first UK-assembled BN-2 Islander
Britten-Norman has completed the first flight of a BN-2 Islander assembled in the UK from detailed component level, marking a milestone in its production-reshoring effort.
Britten-Norman has flown the first BN-2 Islander assembled from detailed component level in the UK. MSN2317 made its maiden sortie on 3 September while still in protective primer. It has since entered the paint shop for application of Falkland Islands Government Air Service livery.
The piston-twin is destined for the Falkland Islands Government Air Service (FIGAS). Further flight testing and completion activity will take place this month, ahead of customer acceptance at the end of September and delivery shortly after.
Britten-Norman has been working since 2023 to repatriate Islander production to its factory at Bembridge on the Isle of Wight. Previously, Romaero in Romania built major sub-assemblies that were transported to Bembridge for final assembly. The company says the new setup will help ensure quality and on-time delivery, and allow customer requirements to be incorporated earlier.
A second UK-built Islander is coming together at Bembridge ahead of a first flight scheduled for early 2027. Components for a third aircraft have been ordered.
Sources
- flightglobal.comGreat Britten: airframer completes first flight of UK-built Islander