The Falkland Islands Government has announced plans to purchase four new BN2B-26 Islander aircraft. The deal, valued at $9.75 million, represents a significant investment in the territory’s aviation infrastructure.
This fleet expansion initiative coincides with the 75th anniversary of the Falkland Islands Government Aviation Service (FIGAS). It represents a historic milestone for the organization.
The new order complements two previously contracted aircraft, with one already successfully integrated into active service.
All new aircraft will be manufactured at Britten-Norman’s recently established UK facility on the Isle of Wight. This follows the company’s strategic decision to relocate production from overseas in late 2023.
FIGAS and Falkland Operations
Since its establishment in 1948, FIGAS has served as a lifeline for Falkland communities, particularly those in remote locations. Their current fleet of five Islander aircraft performs a diverse range of essential services.
These include regular passenger transport, emergency medical evacuations, mail delivery, cargo services, veterinary support, environmental monitoring missions.
It also offers increasingly popular scenic flights for tourists exploring the islands’ unique landscape.
The BN2B-26 Islander
The BN2B-26 Islander, renowned for its robust piston-powered design, has consistently proven ideal for FIGAS operations. Its exceptional Short Take-off and Landing (STOL) capabilities make it perfectly suited to navigate the challenging and varied terrain of the Falklands.
The aircraft type has demonstrated remarkable durability and reliability, serving as the backbone of FIGAS operations for more than six decades.
After conducting comprehensive evaluations of various aircraft options, FIGAS made the strategic decision to continue with the Islander platform. The aircraft has a proven track record of durability in harsh conditions. Combined with recent technological improvements and upgrades, this makes it the optimal choice for the unique demands of the Falklands environment.
Britten-Norman Expansion
This significant contract holds special meaning for Britten-Norman as the company celebrates its 70th anniversary. As part of its expansion strategy, the manufacturer plans to quadruple production capacity at its UK facility over the next two to three years.
Britten-Norman will reinvest early sales revenue to support continuous improvement initiatives and further develop their innovative ‘Green Futures Initiative’. This comprehensive program aims to enhance environmental performance and reduce carbon emissions across their aircraft fleet.
Stakeholder Comments
Morgan Phillips, Director of Operations at FIGAS, emphasized the importance of the new aircraft acquisition: “These new Islanders will ensure we can continue providing reliable air services to our communities for decades to come. The aircraft’s versatility and proven performance in our challenging environment make it an ideal choice for our diverse mission requirements.”
“This opportunity to strengthen our long-standing partnership with the Falkland Islands Government is truly exciting,” said William Hynett, Britten-Norman’s Chief Executive.
“Our collaboration with FIGAS exemplifies successful public-private partnership. Their valuable feedback as a key long-term partner helps us continuously enhance our products and services.”
The delivery schedule for the new aircraft will be carefully coordinated to ensure minimal disruption to FIGAS’s essential services. The first of the four new Islanders is expected to join the fleet within the next eighteen months.
This substantial investment demonstrates the Falkland Islands Government’s commitment to maintaining robust and reliable air services for its communities well into the future.
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