Aircraft manufacturer Britten-Norman is to increase production rates and reintroduce aircraft production at its historic home site on the Isle of Wight, UK.
The UK company has been manufacturing its aircraft in Eastern Europe since the late 1960s and is to buy new jigs and tooling to create two additional production lines, modernize the site and install sustainable energy initiatives there.
According to Britten-Norman it is receiving intensified interest in the Islander aircraft following the planned launch of a zero-emissions version of the aircraft in 2026. It said there is also wider interest that has resulted from the introduction of finance and leasing options for the resurgent sub regional aircraft market.
In the coming months the company will be embarking on a recruitment campaign for aircraft fitters and technicians, production engineering and supply chain roles.
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.
William Hynett, CEO of Britten-Norman said, “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.”
Britten-Norman will retain its 34,000 square foot site at Solent Airport Daedalus near Portsmouth, 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.
