Islanders in Britain constructed by Britten-Norman company

The UK's aviation industry is set for a significant boost with the production of the first fully UK-manufactured Islander aircraft by Britten-Norman. The production site, located in Bembridge on the Isle of Wight, has been the hub of this historic endeavour since the project's inception.

Britten-Norman has made impressive progress, having completed more than half of the assembly of the first UK-manufactured Islander. The wing assembly is expected to be completed by the end of 2025, paving the way for full production resumption in early 2026.

This shift towards domestic aircraft manufacturing could potentially bolster the UK's economy, marking a return of complete aircraft manufacturing to the country. In the past, larger sub-assemblies of similar aircraft were manufactured overseas before final assembly in the UK. However, the production of the Islander signifies a break from this trend, with all major parts being produced domestically.

The first delivery of the new Islander is scheduled for spring 2026, and the aircraft is expected to make its first flight from the Isle of Wight in the near future. This move towards home-grown aircraft manufacturing is a significant step in the aviation industry, and it could pave the way for further advancements in UK aviation.

The resurgence of complete aircraft manufacturing in the UK is not only economically beneficial but also symbolises a sense of national pride. The production of the Islander is a testament to the UK's capabilities in the aviation sector and could inspire further investment and innovation in the industry.

As Britten-Norman continues to make strides in the assembly of the first UK-manufactured Islander, the aviation world watches with bated breath. The successful completion of this project could open doors for more domestic aircraft manufacturing in the UK, potentially boosting the economy and positioning the UK as a leader in the global aviation industry.