The Falkland Islands Government has signed a Letter of Intent with British aircraft manufacturer Britten-Norman to order four BN2B-26 Islander aircraft, with the deal valued at approximately USD 9.75 million.
This acquisition is part of a plan to modernise the Falkland Islands Government Aviation Service (FIGAS) fleet as it celebrates its 75th anniversary. The new aircraft will complement two previously ordered Islander aircraft from Britten-Norman, one of which is already in operation. All new planes will be manufactured in Britten-Norman’s UK facility on the Isle of Wight, re-established in 2023.
Since its inception in 1948, FIGAS has been essential in providing air transport services across the Falklands. Its current fleet of five Islanders performs various roles, including commuter flights, air ambulance, mail and freight transport, veterinary support, environmental monitoring, and scenic tours for visitors. These aircraft serve to keep remote areas connected and accessible.
The BN2B-26 Islander model, recognised for its rugged design and Short Take-off and Landing (STOL) capability, has been a reliable choice for FIGAS, handling the challenging terrains and conditions in the Falklands over the decades. FIGAS’s decision to upgrade to new Islanders reflects an assessment of the aircraft’s suitability for local operational demands, where durability and reliability remain priorities. Recent refinements in the Islander model also influenced this decision.
For Britten-Norman, this order aligns with its 70th anniversary and its expansion of production at its UK facility, which aims to quadruple output over the next few years. The company plans to reinvest profits to support ongoing product development and environmental improvements through its “Green Futures Initiative,” which focuses on reducing carbon emissions.
William Hynett, Chief Executive at Britten-Norman, commented: “We are so pleased to have such an incredible opportunity to build a new chapter in our long-standing relationship with the Falkland Islands Government and to continue to support the communities of these important islands. Our relationship with FIGAS is an exemplar of the benefits that can be achieved in private / public sector co-operation. As one of our most valued long-term partners, we rely on crucial feedback from FIGAS and work hard to use this knowledge to further refine our products and services.”
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