Britten-Norman, the UK’s leading utility aircraft manufacturer, has successfully completed its second funding round. It has now secured substantial investment from Northern Ireland-based Beechlands Enterprises. This significant capital injection will accelerate production of the iconic Islander aircraft and transform the company’s aftermarket business.
The investment will enable Britten-Norman to scale up its UK manufacturing operations. This will see an increase to eight aircraft per year in the initial phase.
The company will focus primarily on producing the unleaded piston version of the Islander. The manufacturer will deliver approximately 20% of aircraft in the turboprop configuration. This increased production capacity marks a major milestone for the British aviation industry.
As part of its manufacturing focus, Britten-Norman plans to invest in more advanced tools and machinery. These upgrades will enhance component production capabilities, and significantly reduce lead times. It will see an increase in output, and an improvement in overall cost-efficiency. Modernizing manufacturing processes will strengthen the company’s competitive edge in the global market.
The investment deal also brings new expertise to Britten-Norman’s leadership. Patrick Cowan, former Deputy Chief Engineer at Belfast-based aircraft manufacturer Short Brothers, will join the company’s board of directors. His extensive experience in the aviation industry is expected to provide valuable insights and guidance as Britten-Norman enters this new phase f growth.
Alison Rankin Frost, Director of Beechlands, expressed enthusiasm about the investment, stating, We’re delighted to invest in Britten-Norman. Great people, great product, and now with more capital, great prospects. This vote of confidence from Beechlands underscores the potential they see in Britten-Norman’s future.
William Hynett, Britten-Norman’s CEO, commented on the significance of this investment: This welcome investment from Beechlands will enable Britten-Norman to complete its aircraft manufacturing repatriation programme. The first aircraft is destined for the Falkland Islands.
We will also be focusing on our important international aftermarket operations. This ensures our long-term position as the manufacturer of choice for reliable, high-intensity, low-cost, short-field, sub-regional air transportation.
The timing of this investment is particularly meaningful as Britten-Norman celebrates its platinum anniversary in 2024, marking 70 years since the company’s founding.
John Britten and Desmond Norman established the business in 1954 after completing their apprenticeships at De Havilland. Initially conceived as an aircraft modification company, they soon identified a gap in the market for a high-payload, short-sector, short take-off and landing aircraft capable of operating in remote areas with minimal infrastructure.
This vision led to the birth of the ubiquitous Islander ten years later, an aircraft that has since become synonymous with versatility and reliability in challenging environments. The Islander’s success story continues to this day, with the aircraft remaining a popular choice for various operations worldwide.
Reflecting on this milestone year, CEO William Hynett added, This is a very important year for Britten-Norman. 2024 will see the first all-UK built Islander being delivered from our Isle of Wight manufacturing base.
This first aircraft will be delivered as we celebrate a rare milestone in British aviation, the 70th anniversary of the formation of one of Britain’s most iconic aircraft brands. As Britten-Norman looks to the future, this new investment and increased production capacity position the company to continue its legacy of innovation in aircraft manufacturing.
