UK-based aircraft manufacturer Britten-Norman marks significant progress in domestic Islander production

Britten-Norman, a UK-based aircraft manufacturer, has reached a significant milestone in bringing full aircraft production of the Islander to its Bembridge facility on the Isle of Wight. With production ramping up, the company can now offer operators increased access to newly built Islanders.

The company's new production line is now well advanced, with development continuing as Britten-Norman prepares to ramp up activity over the coming years to deliver new-build aircraft. 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.

The first UK-built Islander's assembly is more than 50% complete, and wing assembly is expected to be finished later this year, with final assembly scheduled for early 2026. The first delivery of the new UK-built Islander is planned for spring 2026.

Demand for the Islander remains strong, with confirmed orders and multiple Letters of Intent already secured. Britten-Norman is strengthening support for operators to improve parts availability and service.

Meanwhile, the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) is discussing the opportunity for composites in UK aerospace. Alex Hickson, head of Technology - Structures, Manufacturing & Materials at the ATI, discussed the potential benefits of composites in aerospace engineering.

Elsewhere, Lockheed Martin will upgrade the Republic of Korea Air Force's F-16 Block 52 flight simulators to mirror the advanced capabilities of its modernised F-16 Viper (F-16V) aircraft.

In another development, Dassault Systèmes has announced that the NCC has adopted the 3DEXPERIENCE platform on the cloud and extended its use to other innovation centres within the UK High Value Manufacturing Catapult network.

Craig Collier, founder, president & CEO of design and analysis software specialists, Collier Aerospace, explained how the company's products can help aerospace engineers solve multiple part design challenges.

Lastly, Lockheed Martin has achieved a breakthrough in tactical airlift durability with the latest structural testing of the C-130J Super Hercules. The tests demonstrated the aircraft's ability to withstand extreme conditions, ensuring its continued service in a variety of demanding roles.