Tuesday, June 9th 2026 - 14:38 UTC
The aircraft, contracted to FIGAS, will be the first to be delivered from the new Bembridge line. A second airframe is now nearing 25% completion
Falkland Islands Government Air Service, FIGAS, Britten-Norman has confirmed that the first new Islander to be produced through its fully reshored UK production line has reached 75% completion at the company’s Bembridge facility on the Isle of Wight, with final assembly scheduled in the coming weeks.
Since reaching 50% completion earlier this year, the build has advanced across every major area. Fuselage sub-assemblies and fin were joined at the end of Q1, fuel tank tests were completed, and the 15-metre wing assembly has been completed and attached to the fuselage. The airframe has been re-positioned on the production line, with installation of the undercarriage, engines, flight control surfaces and remaining systems well underway.
“Reaching the current level of completion is an excellent achievement for our team and a clear demonstration of the capability we have built at the Bembridge site,” said Richard Milne, Chief Operating Officer at Britten-Norman. “Each milestone and stage of completion brings us closer to delivering brand-new, British-built Islanders for our customers. The dedication and quality of work achieved by our team is outstanding.”
