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Britten-Norman Plans Return to Isle of Wight for Aircraft Production

British company will build its signature Islander twin at Bembridge, its historic home.

Britten-Norman plans to resume manufacturing Islander aircraft on the Isle of Wight. [Courtesy: Britten-Norman]
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Britten-Norman is relocating aircraft assembly operations back to its historic home in Bembridge, Isle of Wight, after decades of manufacturing in Eastern Europe.
  • The company plans significant investment in new production lines, facilities, and sustainable energy initiatives to boost aircraft production and recruit new employees.
  • This expansion is driven by anticipated interest in a zero-emissions Islander aircraft launching in 2026 and aims to enhance support for existing operators.
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U.K.-based aircraft manufacturer Britten-Norman plans to boost production and return aircraft assembly operations to the company’s historic home of Bembridge on the Isle of Wight. This represents a big move for the company, which has been manufacturing its airplanes in Eastern Europe since the late 1960s.

As part of the revamped production plan, the company announced it will invest in new jigs and tooling to add two more production lines while updating its facilities overall and implementing new initiatives around sustainable energy.

Jonathan Welsh

Jonathan Welsh is Lead Editor of Aviation Consumer and a private pilot who worked as a reporter, editor and columnist with the Wall Street Journal for 21 years, mostly covering the auto industry. His passion for aviation began in childhood with balsa-wood gliders his aunt would buy for him at the corner store. Follow Jonathan on Twitter @JonathanWelsh4

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