Britten-Norman

Cranfield Aerospace Solutions and Britten-Norman have delayed their merger plans and are instead negotiating a strategic partnership to develop a hydrogen-electric powered version of the BN-2 Islander aircraft.

Britten-Norman plans to increase production rates and repatriate aircraft manufacturing to its Bembridge facility on the Isle of Wight, investing in new jigs and tooling for two additional production lines, ahead of a zero-emissions Islander launch in 2026.

Britten-Norman and Cranfield Aerospace Solutions (CAeS) signed a Heads of Terms Agreement to merge, aiming to create a zero-emission hydrogen-electric commuter aircraft based on the Islander, with entry into service planned for 2026. CAeS investors will invest up to £10 million in the new business.

HydrogenOne, a London-listed clean hydrogen fund, invested £5 million in Cranfield Aerospace Solutions. The investment is part of a consortium funding round of up to £10 million to support the merger with Britten-Norman to develop the world's first zero-emissions commercial aircraft.

Britten-Norman and Cranfield Aerospace Solutions (CAeS) signed a Heads of Terms agreement to merge, creating a zero-emissions sub regional aircraft company. A consortium led by HydrogenOne Capital Growth Plc will invest up to £10 million in the new company.