Island firm picks up order for 15 'green' aircraft

An Isle of Wight aircraft manufacturer has picked up an order to build aircraft for a German company developing carbon-neutral aviation.

Britten-Norman, based in Bembridge, has signed a letter of intent for 15 short-range Islander aircraft with Evia Aero, creating up to 40 jobs.

The aircraft will subsequently be converted to use hydrogen fuel cells.

The deal would see first of the new twin-engine aircraft delivered in early 2027.

William Hynett, chief executive at Britten-Norman, said: "We are proud to partner with Evia Aero in this ground breaking endeavour.

"The adaptability of the Islander aircraft, combined with our commitment to a green future, provides us an opportunity to lead the way in sub-regional, zero-emission aviation."

The German firm is developing zero-emissions aircraft fuelled by green energy generated on-site at regional airports, offering business passengers a "climate-neutral and time-saving alternative".

The latest deal for the Isle of Wight company follows a deal worth $9.75m (£7.9m) in November with the Falkland Islands Government Aviation Service (FIGAS) to supply four new light aircraft.

FIGAS has operated a fleet of Islanders on the Falkland Islands for more than 60 years.

Production of the Islander aircraft returned to the Isle of Wight in 2023, having been built in Romania for the previous 55 years.

Britten-Norman currently employs 41 people on the Isle of Wight.

The company said there would be an immediate requirement for 15 people increasing to a total of 40 roles at its Bembridge plant.

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