Six months after the historic Isle of Wight aircraft manufacturer Britten-Norman announced a plan to quadruple its production, the future of the company seems to be hanging by a thread.
Seeking the Necessary Investment
The company, famous for creating the BN-2 Islander, affectionately known as the “Land Rover of the skies”, is considering the possibility of bringing in administrators, according to sources cited by Countypress.
In September, Britten-Norman revealed interest from companies in Malta, India, and Australia, and was preparing to deliver the first aircraft manufactured in the modernized factory after regaining production outsourced to Romania, to the Falkland Islands.
An Aviation Icon with Roots on the Isle of Wight
The MP for the Isle of Wight, Bob Seely, along with the group’s CEO, William Hynett, cut the ribbon in September to ” build British and export to the world”. The iconic Islander has been flying since 1965 and, although it has undergone 2,000 modifications since then, the basic design remains true to the original.
William Hynett revealed in September that the Islanders are exported to remote locations, including Pacific islands, Canada, and South Africa, having been previously manufactured in Romania, which resulted in logistical challenges. It was expected that increasing production on the island would optimize the operation.
The BN-2 Islander, Simple and Reliable
The development of the BN-2 Islander began with the goal of creating a robust, economical aircraft capable of operating in challenging environments and on unprepared runways. Its first flight took place on June 13, 1965, marking the beginning of an era for light air transport.
Designed to be simple, durable, and easy to maintain, the Islander has proven to be exceptionally adaptable, not only in the functions it can perform but also in its ability to operate from short and unprepared runways, characteristics that have contributed to its success and worldwide popularity in a wide range of civilian and military applications.
This aircraft can not only be transformed into a freighter, by removing the seats to store cargo in the aft compartment, but it can also be configured as an air ambulance, with space for three stretchers and two nurses, and for various general missions through the appropriate equipment.
The military versions, known as Defender, Defender AEW, and Maritime Defender, are designed to adapt to medical evacuation tasks, maritime patrol, logistical transport, and search and rescue operations.
A spokesperson for Britten Norman said: “In support of the company’s plans, especially regarding the repatriation of aircraft manufacturing to the UK announced last September, the board has appointed advisors to assist in exploring options to secure the additional investment needed.”
“While the board continues to engage in constructive discussions with the company’s main stakeholders, it has decided to file court documents to protect the business’s position. This will allow the board to focus on achieving the right structure for any proposed new investment.”
“Subject to a satisfactory conclusion of the process, the board expects to move forward with an additional announcement next week.”
