Isle of Wight aircraft manufacturer Britten-Norman is to ramp up the production of its iconic Islander aircraft after securing 'significant' investment.

The company, the UK’s leading manufacturer of utility aircraft, based at Bembridge Airport, will scale up manufacturing operations in the UK to eight aircraft a year in phase one.

Manufacturing will be focussed primarily on the unleaded piston version of the Islander, with around 20 per of aircraft being delivered as turboprops.

Britten-Norman has successfully completed its second funding round, securing significant capital from Northern Ireland based Beechlands Enterprises.

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As part of the company’s focus on manufacturing, it will invest in more advanced manufacturing tools and machinery, enhancing component production capabilities.

It said these upgrades will help reduce lead times, increase output, and improve overall cost and efficiency.

As part of the investment Patrick Cowan, former deputy chief engineer at Belfast based aeroplane manufacturer Short Brothers, will be joining the board of Britten-Norman.

Alison Rankin Frost, director of Beechlands said: “We’re delighted to invest in Britten-Norman. Great people, great product and, now we have provided more capital, great prospects.”

William Hynett, Britten-Norman’s CEO, commented: “This welcome investment from Beechlands will enable Britten-Norman to complete its aircraft manufacturing repatriation programme, with the first aircraft destined for the Falkland Islands.

"We will also be focussing on our important international aftermarket operations, ensuring our long-term position as the manufacturer of choice for reliable, high-intensity, low-cost, short-field, sub-regional air transportation.”