View source for Britten-Norman BN-2 Islander

{{Short description|Utility transport aircraft series, 1965}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2019}}
{{Infobox aircraft
  |name = Islander
  |image = Britten-Norman BN-2A-26 Islander, Winair - Windward Islands Airways JP5823246.jpg
  |caption = A [[Winair]] Britten-Norman BN-2 Islander
  |type = Utility aircraft/airliner
  |national_origin = United Kingdom
  |manufacturer = [[Britten-Norman]]
  |designer = John Britten, [[Desmond Norman]]
  |first_flight = 13 June 1965
  |introduction =
  |retired =
  |status = In active service
  |primary_user =
  |more_users =
  |produced = 1965–present
  |number_built = 1,280
  |developed_from =
  |variants = [[Britten-Norman Defender]]
  |developed_into = [[Britten-Norman Trislander]]
}}

The '''Britten-Norman BN-2 Islander''' is a British light utility aircraft and [[regional airliner]] designed and originally manufactured by [[Britten-Norman]] of the United Kingdom. Still in production, the Islander is one of the best-selling commercial aircraft types produced in Europe. Although designed in the 1960s, around 400 are still in service with commercial operators around the world. The aircraft is a light transport with around 15 military aviation operators around the world.

Initial aircraft were manufactured at Britten-Norman's factory in [[Bembridge]], [[Isle of Wight]], UK. After [[Fairey Aviation]] acquired the Britten-Norman company, its Islanders and [[Trislander]] aircraft were built in [[Romania]], then shipped to [[Avions Fairey]] in Belgium for finishing before being flown to the UK for flight certification. Being certified in 1967 the Islander is still in production.

In September 2023, it was announced that production of the Islander has returned to the UK, after fifty-five years of manufacturing abroad.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Toogood |first1=Darren |title=BACK TO BRITAIN FOR BRITTEN-NORMAN AS PRODUCTION OF ICONIC ISLANDER RETURNS TO BEMBRIDGE |url=https://www.islandecho.co.uk/back-to-britain-for-britten-norman-as-production-of-iconic-islander-returns-to-bembridge/ |website=islandecho.co.uk |date=22 September 2023 |publisher=Island Echo |access-date=24 September 2023}}</ref>

==Development==
===Origins===
In 1953, Britten-Norman was formed for the purpose of converting and operating [[agricultural aircraft]], amongst other vehicles such as the [[Cushioncraft]] hovercraft.<ref name="Simpson p. 77">{{harvnb|Simpson|1991|p=77}}</ref><ref name = "frick 75">{{harvnb|Fricker|1968|p=75}}</ref> In 1963, the firm initiated development work upon what would become the Islander, having sensed a demand for a simple and inexpensive twin-[[piston engine]] aircraft.<ref name = "ain 40"/> The founders, John Britten<ref>{{cite magazine|title=John Britten obituary |magazine=[[Flight International]] |date=16 July 1977 |page= 187 |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/FlightPDFArchive/1977/1977%20-%202189.PDF|access-date=16 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170417154740/https://www.flightglobal.com/FlightPDFArchive/1977/1977%20-%202189.PDF|archive-date=17 April 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref> and [[Desmond Norman]], had observed the rapid growth of the [[regional airline|commuter airline]] sector, and concluded that capacity was of a higher value to these operators than either range or cruising speed, thus the Islander emphasized payload over either of these attributes.<ref name = "frick 75"/>

Through the use of low wing- and span-loading to generate greater effectiveness than conventional counterparts, the Islander could lift considerably heavier payloads than the typical aircraft in its power, weight or cost classes.<ref>{{harvnb|Fricker|1968|pp=75–76}}</ref> To reduce manufacturing costs, both the wings and tail surfaces maintain a constant [[Chord (aeronautics)|chord]] and thickness, while the [[Rib (aeronautics)|ribs]] within the aircraft's wing are all identical; both [[rivet]]s and external fishplate joints are used for the same purpose.<ref name = "frick 76">{{harvnb|Fricker|1968|p=76}}</ref> The type was originally intended to use a fabric-and-steel design. A light [[alloy]] [[monocoque]] approach was adopted instead.<ref name = "ain 40"/> The structure is designed to give rise to and experience low levels of stress, and has an infinite fatigue life without testing.<ref name = "frick 76"/>

[[File:Britten Norman BN.2 G-ATCT LEB 19.06.65 edited-2.jpg|thumb|right|The prototype BN-2 Islander displayed at the 1965 [[Paris Air Show]] six days after its maiden flight]]
On 13 June 1965, the first prototype BN-2 Islander conducted its [[maiden flight]], powered by a pair of [[Continental IO-360|Rolls-Royce/Continental IO-360B]] piston engines; only four days later, the prototype appeared at the [[Paris Air Show]].<ref name = "ain 40"/><ref>{{harvnb|Green|1976|p=52}}.</ref> The IO-360B engines were later replaced by more powerful [[Lycoming O-540|Lycoming O-540-E]] engines, which were located further outboard on the wings, for superior single-engine climb performance.<ref name = "ain 40"/> On 20 August 1966, a second BN-2 prototype performed its first flight. These prototype aircraft, while resembling subsequent production models for the most part, were outfitted with different, less powerful engines.<ref name = "orbis 992"/> On 24 April 1967, the first production Islander performed its first flight; UK [[type certificate|type certification]] was received in August 1967, US authorities also certified the type in December 1967.<ref name = "ain 40"/>

Initial production of the Islander started at the Britten-Norman factory at [[Bembridge]] on the [[Isle of Wight]]; however, within a few years the company found that it could not produce the aircraft at a sufficient rate to keep up with the customer demand.<ref name="Simpson p. 77"/><ref>{{cite magazine |last=Fricker |first=John |title=Foreign Accent |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=3r_N-1k-QbAC&pg=PA26 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160411032258/https://books.google.co.uk/books?id=3r_N-1k-QbAC&pg=PA26 |archive-date=11 April 2016 |magazine=[[Flying Magazine|Flying]] |date=December 1968 |volume=83 |issue=6 |issn=0015-4806 |page=26 |ref=none}}</ref> To expand production, a contract was placed with [[Intreprinderea de Reparatii Material Aeronautic]] (IRMA) of Romania, initially to assemble kit-form aircraft, which were then sent to the UK for completion. In August 1969, the first Romanian-assembled Islander performed its first flight.<ref name = "ain 40"/> IRMA proved successful at economically producing the aircraft, producing roughly 30-40 aircraft per year at times, and eventually became the primary manufacturing site for the Islander.<ref name="Simpson p. 77"/><ref name = "ain 40"/> In 1977, IRMA received a contract for the production of a further 100 Islanders; from that point on, the firm produced all subsequent Islander aircraft.<ref name = "ain 40"/><ref>{{harvnb|Hamilton-Paterson|2010|p=255}}</ref> More than 500 of the type were manufactured in Romania.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.romaero.com/about-romaero/company-history |title=Romaero |publisher=Romaero |access-date=20 August 2012 |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120630013522/http://www.romaero.com/about-romaero/company-history |archive-date=30 June 2012  }}</ref>

In 1970, a military version of the Islander, marketed as the [[Britten-Norman Defender|Defender]], conducted its first flight. Modifications included the addition of underwing [[hardpoint]]s for armaments/equipment, and the main cabin area being fitted out for light troop transport and support aircraft duties.<ref name = "ain 40"/> The Defender capitalised on the aircraft's rugged structure, making it suitable for long-term operations in developing countries. Purchases from police and military customers have typically been for use in surveillance and counter-terrorism operations. The ''Maritime Defender'' is another military version of the Islander, intended for search and rescue, coastal patrol and fishery protection.
[[File:Seychelles Stamp, Britten-Norman Islander, 1981.jpg|thumb|A Seychellois Stamp with an illustration of a Britten-Norman Islander, 1981]]

===Further development===
Despite the relative success of the Islander, Britten-Norman experienced wider financial difficulties during the late 1960s, ultimately resulting in the company entering [[receivership]] in October 1971.<ref name = "ain 40"/> In August 1972, Britten-Norman was purchased by the [[Fairey Aviation]] Group, forming the Fairey Britten-Norman company; shortly thereafter, the majority of manufacturing activity for both the Islander and Trislander was transferred to its [[Avions Fairey]] factory in [[Gosselies]], Belgium. Completed aircraft were flown to Bembridge for final customer preparation prior to delivery.<ref name="Simpson p. 77"/><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.baha.be/Webpages/Navigator/Belgian_Aviation_History/Industry/Sonaca.htm |title=Avions Fairey Gosselies & Sonaca: a Tips of genie |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100620005139/http://www.baha.be/Webpages/Navigator/Belgian_Aviation_History/Industry/Sonaca.htm |archive-date=20 June 2010 |publisher=Belgian Aircraft History Association |accessdate= 25 March 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |last=Fricker |first=John |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=SOUUuRXEFmoC&pg=PA271 |title=Past and Present |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160411025505/https://books.google.co.uk/books?id=SOUUuRXEFmoC&pg=PA271 |archive-date=11 April 2016 |magazine= [[Flying Magazine|Flying]] |date=September 1977 |volume= 101 |issue= 3 |issn=0015-4806 |page=271}}</ref>

[[File:BN-2T Islander - RIAT 2014 (16372337311).jpg|thumb|Inflight BN-2T]]
Fairey Aviation set about the development of a more powerful model, the Turbo Islander, equipped with a pair of [[Lycoming LTP101]] turboprop engines. However, testing revealed that the LTP101 engines were too powerful for the aircraft; thus, following a period of re-designing, the project evolved into the Turbine Islander (BN-2T), equipped with a pair of [[Allison 250]] turboprop engines instead.<ref name="Simpson p. 77" /> However, Fairey encountered financial difficulty, resulting in the Fairey Britten-Norman company entering receivership and the firm's acquisition by [[Rheinmetall Air Defence|Oerlikon Buerle]] of Switzerland, leading to the formation of [[Pilatus Aircraft|Pilatus Britten-Norman]], whereupon some production activity was transferred back to Bembridge.<ref name="Simpson p. 77"/><ref name = "ain 40"/>

Another development was a turbo-normalizing system with RaJay turbocharger for the -2, -3, -6, -8, and -9 models allowing full power up to {{convert|14000|ft|m|abbr=off}} with attendant increase in true airspeed and takeoff and climb performance. Presently Talco in Texas holds the STC.

In 1969, an improved version, the ''BN-2A Islander'', conducted its maiden flight. It incorporated [[aerodynamic]] and flight equipment improvements, such as lower-drag engine cowlings and undercarriage, an improved interior, and an expanded rear baggage area with external access.<ref name = "ain 40"/> In 1970, to improve hot-and-high performance, more powerful [[Lycoming O-540|Lycoming O-540-K1-B5]] engines were made available, alongside optional tiptanks and an elongated nose to house baggage.<ref name = "ain 40"/>

In 1975 [[Philippine Aerospace Development Corporation]] was granted License production and programmed depot maintenance (PDM)  of BN2 Islander wherein 67 units were produced from 1975-1995.<ref>https://archive.today/20240307024631/https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1187954 {{Bare URL inline|date=August 2025}}</ref>

[[File:Britten-Norman BN-2A-3 Islander (mod) AN2059491.jpg|thumb|Islander equipped with ducted fans, 1978]]
In 1977, a single standard BN-2 was refitted with [[Dowty Rotol]] [[ducted fans]]. The ducted fan produced less noise than conventional propeller propulsion. Some structural strengthening of the main wing spar at the root was required due to the extra weight.<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Hirst |first=Mike |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/FlightPDFArchive/1977/1977%20-%202212.PDF |title=Building the quiet Islander. |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160407085238/https://www.flightglobal.com/FlightPDFArchive/1977/1977%20-%202212.PDF |archive-date=7 April 2016 |magazine=Flight International |date=16 July 1977 |page=210}}</ref> This aircraft was subject to 18 months of flying trials to test the suitability of the ducted fan as a means of reducing aircraft noise; these tests reportedly demonstrated a 20 [[decibel]] noise reduction as well as increased thrust and reduced pollution.<ref name = "ain 40"/><ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=PVlF2QdwtrUC&pg=PA24 |title=Reporting Points |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160411062916/https://books.google.co.uk/books?id=PVlF2QdwtrUC&pg=PA24&lpg=PA24 |archive-date=11 April 2016 |magazine=[[Flying Magazine|Flying]] |date=October 1977 |issn=0015-4806 |page=25}}</ref>

In 1978, a further improved version, the ''BN-2B Islander II'', was produced as a result of a product improvement program. The BN-2B model involved several changes, including a redesigned cockpit and a reduction in cabin noise levels.<ref name = "ain 40"/> In 1980, it was decided to make available [[turboprop]] engines for the type, adopting twin [[Allison 250]]-B17C engines; when the latter are installed, the aircraft is designated the ''BN-2T Turbine Islander''. The first such BN-2T entered service in 1981.<ref name = "ain 40"/>

In February 1999, the acquisition of Romaero, the Romanian manufacturer of the Islander, by Britten-Norman Group was announced.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://aviationweek.com/awin/britten-norman-takes-over-romanias-romaero |title=Britten-Norman takes over Romania's Romaero |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160408081339/http://aviationweek.com/awin/britten-norman-takes-over-romanias-romaero |archive-date=8 April 2016 |work=Aviation Week |date=8 February 1999}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/britten-norman-enjoys-new-romanian-rhapsody-52330/ |title=Britten-Norman enjoys new Romanian rhapsody |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160407034246/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/britten-norman-enjoys-new-romanian-rhapsody-52330/ |archive-date=7 April 2016 |work=Flight International |date=14 June 1999}}</ref> By May 2006, a greater sales emphasis was being placed upon the Defender over the Islander.<ref name = "morr 2006">{{cite web |last=Morrison |first=Murdo |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/great-britten-207255/ |title=Great Britten |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160407063803/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/great-britten-207255/ |archive-date=7 April 2016 |work=Flight International |date=20 June 2006}}</ref> In December 2006, aerospace publication ''[[Flight International]]'' observed that: "The only civil aircraft that remains in production in the UK is the tiny Britten-Norman Islander".<ref>{{cite web |last=Kingsley-Jones |first=Max |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/final-landing-a-history-of-the-uk-aircraft-industry-211152/ |title=Final landing: A history of the UK aircraft industry (or 'Why Britain botched building airliners') |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160407060831/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/final-landing-a-history-of-the-uk-aircraft-industry-211152/ |archive-date=7 April 2016 |work=Flight International |date=22 December 2006}}</ref>

In early 2008, B-N was studying a version powered by {{cvt|350|hp|kW}} [[aircraft diesel engine]]s with [[SMA Engines]], already offering the {{cvt|230|hp|kW}} [[SMA SR305-230]].<ref>{{cite news |url= https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/aviation-international-news/2008-01-14/b-n-putting-positive-spin-its-propeller-driven-aircraft |title= B-N putting a positive spin on its propeller-driven aircraft |author= Charles Alcock |date= January 14, 2008 |work= AIN online}}</ref>
In May 2010, Britten-Norman announced that manufacturing of the Islander would be relocated from Romania to a new site in the UK, due to the rising costs of production in Romania.<ref>{{cite web |last=Morrison|first=Murdo |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/britten-norman-brings-production-back-to-the-uk-342568/ |title=Britten-Norman brings production back to the UK |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160407052314/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/britten-norman-brings-production-back-to-the-uk-342568/ |archive-date=7 April 2016 |work=Flight International |date=28 May 2010}}</ref>

====Return to UK manufacture====
In 2023 [[Britten-Norman]] reactivated their original production line at [[Bembridge]] in the [[Isle of Wight]] and closed down overseas manufacture. New aircraft, to be produced at two per year initially and rising thereafter, are expected to continue the practice of incorporating progressive improvements to the current design. These include a [[glass cockpit]] from [[Garmin]].<ref name="hoyle">Craig Hoyle. [https://www.flightglobal.com/aerospace/new-dawn-for-britten-norman-as-it-opens-repatriated-islander-production-line/155064.article ‘New dawn’ for Britten-Norman, as it opens repatriated Islander production line], ''FlightGlobal'', 22–09–2023. (Retrieved 26–09–2023)</ref>

====Electric Project Fresson====
{{Main|Project Fresson}}
In conjunction with Britten-Norman, Cranfield Aerospace Solutions (CAeS), a subsidiary of [[Cranfield University]], is developing an [[Electric aircraft|electric]] propulsion system for the over 700 Islanders currently operated.<ref name=AvWeek26oct2018>{{cite news |url= http://aviationweek.com/commercial-aviation/loganair-visions-electric-island-hopping-flight-first |title= Loganair Visions Electric Island-Hopping Flight First |date= 26 October 2018 |author= Tony Osborne |work= Aviation Week & Space Technology}}</ref><ref name="hoyle"/>

===Trislander===
{{Main|Britten-Norman Trislander}}

In 1968, the original second Islander prototype was re-used for a further development programme, being modified into a stretched aircraft with greater capacity, referred to as the ''Super Islander''. However, the Super Islander programme was aborted without proceeding to certification.<ref name = "ain 40"/> The prototype later received further design changes to produce the three-engined version, the ''[[Britten-Norman Trislander|BN-2A Mk III Trislander]]''.<ref name="Simpson p. 77"/> This aircraft has a stretched fuselage, modified landing gear and a third engine, which is mounted on the tail.<ref name = "ain 40"/> On 11 September 1970, the Trislander prototype conducted its maiden flight, appearing at the 1970 [[Farnborough Air Show]] the same day.<ref name = "ain 40"/>

==Design==
[[File:Britten-Norman BN-2 Islander LFH Luftverkehr Friesland Harle D-ILFA Cockpit.jpg|thumb|Cockpit of a BN-2 Islander]]
The Britten-Norman BN-2 Islander is a high-wing cantilever [[monoplane]] with a rectangular fuselage and two wing-mounted engines; early aircraft were equipped with a pair of [[piston engine]]s while later production models may be alternatively fitted with [[turboprop]] engines in their place.<ref name = "ain 40"/><ref name = "orbis 992"/><ref name = "islan broch"/> The rectangular cross section fuselage, which is furnished with a conventional tail unit and fixed [[tricycle landing gear]], can accommodate a single pilot and up to nine passengers in a commuter configuration, or operate in a mixed cargo/passenger capacity.    The cabin can be rapidly reconfigured, allowing for a single aircraft to undertake a diverse range of tasks within a minimal period of time.<ref name = "orbis 992">{{harvnb|Orbis 1985|p=992}}</ref><ref name = "BN isl page"/> Often referring to the type as "The world's most versatile aircraft",<ref name = "islan broch">[http://www.britten-norman.com/media/uploads/bn-islander-brochure.pdf "Islands: The World's Most Versatile Aircraft."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160406115148/http://www.britten-norman.com/media/uploads/bn-islander-brochure.pdf |date=6 April 2016 }} ''Britten Norman'', Retrieved: 25 March 2016.</ref> Britten-Norman promotes the Islander's low direct operating costs, minimal maintenance, and its stability in flight as major attributes of the aircraft.<ref name = "BN isl page">[http://www.britten-norman.com/islander/ "Islander."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120721060803/http://www.britten-norman.com/islander/ |date=21 July 2012 }} ''Britten Norman'', Retrieved: 25 March 2016.</ref>

The original Islander was designed with an emphasis upon providing ease of access within the [[Flight length#Categories|short haul sector]] to remote locations as a safe, efficient, and profitable transport aircraft.<ref name = "islan broch"/> It has been regularly used by such operators, including the frequent use of unprepared rough airstrips and from challenging terrain; the Islander being capable of [[STOL|short takeoff and landing]] (STOL) operations.<ref name = "islan broch"/> The low load height and wide side doors provide for easy access for passenger and cargo operations, while the aircraft's ability to maintain a high takeoff frequency has led to the type's use for [[parachuting]].<ref name = "islan broch"/> For operating within noise-sensitive environments, silencers can be equipped on the aircraft's engines and four-bladed propellers can be used.<ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pilatus-britten-norman-will-adopt-islander-silencer-31197/ "Pilatus Britten-Norman will adopt Islander silencer."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160407081716/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pilatus-britten-norman-will-adopt-islander-silencer-31197/ |date=7 April 2016 }} ''Flight International'', 7 January 1998.</ref>

[[File:Exit from the Britten-Norman Islander BN-2A-26 (ES-PNA) aircraft in a parachuting exercise in Estonia (5675975348).png|thumb|Exit in a parachuting exercise]]

Designed as a small and inexpensive commuter/utility aircraft, various cabin configurations and equipment loadouts are available to suit a wide variety of different purposes, including [[air charter|charter flights]], scheduled flights, [[agricultural aircraft|agricultural uses]], [[aerial firefighting]], air freight [[Very Important Person|VIP]]/executive transport, [[surveillance aircraft|aerial surveillance]], [[air medical services|air ambulance]], [[airdrop|paradropping]], and law enforcement.<ref name = "ain 40">Goold, Ian. [http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/aviation-international-news/2006-10-16/britten-norman-islander-celebrates-40th-anniversary "Britten-Norman Islander celebrates 40th anniversary."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170915121721/http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/aviation-international-news/2006-10-16/britten-norman-islander-celebrates-40th-anniversary |date=15 September 2017 }} ''AIN Online'', 16 October 2006.</ref><ref name = "islan broch"/> The design programme can be entirely personalized, allowing each customer to be involved in every area of the aircraft's manufacture to mold it to their preferences.<ref name = "BN isl page"/> Later versions of the Islander offer various options, including enlarged bay doors, 3-bladed [[scimitar propeller]]s, low drag fairings, modern interior, ergonomic leather seating, [[in-flight entertainment]] systems, and alternative seat arrangements; underwing [[hardpoint]]s can also be installed for carrying pod, spray booms and other external stores.<ref name = "islan broch"/><ref name = "BN isl page"/>

==Operational history==

Immediately following commercial availability, US distributor Jonas Aircraft ordered 30 Islanders, and placed orders for another 112 aircraft within a year.<ref name = "ain 40"/><ref name = "frick 76"/> When equipped with four 54-gallon fuel tanks, the Islander was able to ferry itself across the [[transatlantic flight|transatlantic]] route, via [[Gander International Airport]], [[Newfoundland]], for US deliveries.<ref name = "ain 40"/> The Islander's long-range capabilities were highlighted when the type won the 1969 [[London]]-[[Sydney]] air race.<ref name = "ain 40"/>

In 1974, sales of the Islander surpassed the 548-order record for British multi-engine commercial aircraft.<ref name = "ain 40"/> In 1982, another production milestone was reached with the delivery of the 1,000th Islander.<ref name = "ain 40"/> From the 1980s onwards, sales noticeably declined; according to Britten-Norman Chief Executive William Hynett, this was due to the global market having become saturated by the type and there being only a low civil demand for additional aircraft, in part due to the longevity of in-service Islanders.<ref name = "morr 2006"/> As of 2016, Britten-Norman claim that the Islander is in daily service with roughly 500 operators in more than 120 countries.<ref name = "islan broch"/>

Between 1976 and 2006, Scottish airline [[Loganair]] operated a number of Islanders as air ambulances, covering areas such as the island communities in the [[Hebrides]].<ref>Lowton, Edward. [http://www.culture24.org.uk/history-and-heritage/transport-and-industry/art529167-at-what-altitude-did-you-have-your-baby-national-museum-of-flight-seeks-mothers-who-gave-birth-midflight "“At what altitude did you have your baby?” National Museum of Flight seeks mothers who gave birth midflight."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160407022108/http://www.culture24.org.uk/history-and-heritage/transport-and-industry/art529167-at-what-altitude-did-you-have-your-baby-national-museum-of-flight-seeks-mothers-who-gave-birth-midflight |date=7 April 2016 }} ''Culture 24'', 16 June 2015.</ref> The Islander services [[Loganair]]'s [[Westray to Papa Westray flight]], the shortest scheduled flight in the world at {{convert|1.7|mi|abbr=on}}; the scheduled flight time including taxiing is two minutes.<ref>[http://www.westraypapawestray.co.uk/getting-here/index.php "Getting here is easy, by sea or air."] ''Westray and Papa Westray'', Retrieved: 25 March 2016.</ref><ref>[https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-north-east-orkney-shetland-22668150 "Final trip for Orkney shortest flight pilot."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180504163101/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-north-east-orkney-shetland-22668150 |date=4 May 2018 }} ''BBC News'', 23 May 2013.</ref><ref>Kaminski-Morrow, David. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/video-loganair-brings-back-worlds-shortest-fligh-353713/ "VIDEO: Loganair brings back 'world's shortest' flight."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160407030731/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/video-loganair-brings-back-worlds-shortest-fligh-353713/ |date=7 April 2016 }} ''Flight International'', 28 February 2011.</ref>

Several commuter airlines and general aviation charter operators in the U.S. also flew the Islander including [[Stol Air Commuter]] in scheduled passenger service in northern California from their [[San Francisco International Airport]] (SFO) hub and Channel Islands Aviation in southern California which used the aircraft for the flights to [[Channel Islands National Park]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.timetableimages.com/ |title=March 1, 1975 Stol Air Commuter system timetable |access-date=16 April 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010202024400/http://www.timetableimages.com/ |archive-date=2 February 2001 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.flycia.com/flights |title=FlyCIA :: Flights to Channel Islands |access-date=13 April 2017 |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170413235259/https://flycia.com/flights |archive-date=13 April 2017  }}</ref> Another U.S. commuter airline operator was [[Wings Airways]] which operated high frequency shuttle service into the [[Philadelphia International Airport]] (PHL).<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.timetableimages.com/ |title=July 15, 1981 Wings Airways system timetable |access-date=16 April 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010202024400/http://www.timetableimages.com/ |archive-date=2 February 2001 |url-status=live }}</ref>

By October 2019, 800 Islanders were in service including around 600 used for short flights.<ref name=AvWeek7oct2019>{{cite news |url= https://aviationweek.com/future-aerospace/week-technology-oct-7-11-2019 |title= The Week In Technology, Oct. 7-11, 2019 |date= Oct 7, 2019 |author= Graham Warwick |work= Aviation Week & Space Technology}}</ref>

On August 28, 2023, Torres Strait Air stated that it is investing $16.3 million to upgrade its fleet with ten new Britten-Norman Islander aircraft.{{cn|date=June 2024}}

==Variants==
''Source:''<ref>{{harvnb|Simpson|1991|pp=78–79}}</ref>

;BN-2
:Prototype first flown in 1966 with two {{cvt|260|hp|kW}} Lycoming O-540-E4B5 piston engines.
{{anchor|BN-2A}}
;BN-2A
:Production version with minor modification from prototype and increased takeoff weight.

;BN-2A-2
:A BN-2A with modified flaps, and two {{cvt|300|hp|kW}} Lycoming IO-540-K1B5 (fuel injected) engines.

;BN-2A-3
:A BN-2A-2 with increased wingspan and fitted with extra wingtip fuel tanks.

;BN-2A-6
:A BN-2A with wing leading edge modifications and two {{cvt|260|hp|kW}} Lycoming O-540-E4C5 engine.

;BN-2A-7
:A BN-2A-6 with increased wingspan and fuel capacity.

;BN-2A-8
:A BN-2A-6 with droop flaps.

;BN-2A-9
:A BN-2A-7 with droop flaps.

;BN-2A-10
:A BN-2A-8 with increased takeoff weight and {{cvt|270|hp|kW}} Lycoming TIO-540-H1A (turbo-charged, fuel injected) engines.

;BN-2A-20
:A BN-2A-2 with increased takeoff weight and minor improvements.

;{{visible anchor|BN-2A-21}}
:A BN-2A-3 with increased takeoff weight.

;BN-2A-23
:A BN-2A-21 with lengthened nose.

;BN-2A-24
:A BN-2A-26 with lengthened nose.

;BN-2A-25
:A BN-2A-27 with lengthened nose.

;BN-2A-26
:A BN-2A-8 with increased takeoff weight.

;{{visible anchor|BN-2A-27}}
:A BN-2A-9 with increased takeoff weight.

;BN-2A-30
:A BN-2A-20 fitted with floats. Twin floats were attached to the undercarriage legs and incorporated retractable landing gear.

;BN-2A-41
:Turbo Islander with lengthened nose, droop flaps and two Lycoming LTP-101 turboprops, first flown in 1977.

;[[Britten-Norman Defender|Britten-Norman BN-2B Defender]]

[[File:Armed Forces of Malta Air Wing Islander Zammit-2.jpg | thumb|right | A Maltese Air Force Islander]]

:Defender military variant with {{cvt|300|hp|kW}} IO-540-K1B5 engines and underwing hard points and military modifications.

;BN-2B-20
:A BN-2A-20 with improved soundproofing and increased landing weight and other minor modifications.

;BN-2B-21
:A BN-2A-21 with Model B improvements.

;{{visible anchor|BN-2B-26}}
:A BN-2A-26 with Model B improvements.

;BN-2B-27
:A BN-2A-27 with Model B improvements.

;BN-2T
:Turbine Islander based on BN-2A-26 with two {{cvt|320|shp|kW}} Allison 250-B17C turboprops.  Seating for up to 9 passengers.
[[File:RAF_Northolt_2009_BN_Islander_CC2_RAF.jpg|thumb|Islander CC2 of the RAF]]

;Islander AL1
:Variant of the BN-2T for communications and reconnaissance duties with the [[British Army]]; seven built. Used for [[Aerial photography|aerial reconnaissance and photography]] in [[Northern Ireland]] during [[Operation Banner]] by No. 1 Flight [[Army Air Corps (United Kingdom)|Army Air Corps]] based at [[RAF Aldergrove|Aldergrove]].<ref>{{harvnb|Ripley|Chappel|1993|p=30}}</ref> 1 Flight was later integrated into No. 651 Squadron.<ref name="651Sqn">{{cite web |title=651 Squadron Army Air Corps |url=http://www.army.mod.uk/aviation/30331.aspx |website=British Army |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170604232001/http://www.army.mod.uk/aviation/30331.aspx |archive-date=4 June 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref> Redesignated Islander R1 in 2019 after being transferred to the [[Royal Air Force]].<ref name="warnesy">{{cite web |title=RAF Islander Avionics Upgrade Contract |url=http://warnesysworld.com/raf-islander-avionics-upgrade-contract-awarded/ |website=Warnesy's World |access-date=10 September 2019 |archive-date=22 February 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222195106/http://warnesysworld.com/raf-islander-avionics-upgrade-contract-awarded/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>

;Islander CC2 and CC2A
:Variant of the BN-2T for the [[Royal Air Force]]; three operated.<ref name="Lake RAF44-5">{{harvnb|Lake|2008|pp=44–45}}</ref><ref>
[http://www.raf.mod.uk/equipment/islander.cfm "Islander BN2T CC Mk2."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120404061017/http://www.raf.mod.uk/equipment/islander.cfm |date=4 April 2012 }}  Royal Air Force. Retrieved: 22 November 2008. Note: While officially described as communications and photo survey aircraft, these aircraft are believed to also operate in a surveillance role.</ref><ref name="Lake RAF p45-6">{{harvnb|Lake|2008|pp=45–46}}</ref> These aircraft were retired from the RAF in 2017.<ref>{{cite web |title=RAF Islanders Replaced by Civilian-Contracted Aircraft |url=http://warnesysworld.com/raf-islanders-replaced-civilian-contracted-aircraft/ |website=Warnesy's World |access-date=10 September 2019 |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806155902/http://warnesysworld.com/raf-islanders-replaced-civilian-contracted-aircraft/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>

;Maritime-Defender
:Armed maritime reconnaissance and patrol aircraft.

;[[Britten-Norman Trislander|BN-2A-III Trislander]]
:Three-engined Trislander, a stretched BN-2A with 18 seats and three {{cvt|260|hp|kW}} Lycoming O-540-E4C5 piston engines.

==Operators==
=== Military and government ===
[[File:MIAS 260915 AFM Islander 02.jpg|thumb|Armed Force of Malta Britten-Norman Islander at the 2015 Malta International Airshow]]
{{columns-list|colwidth=15em|
; {{flag|Abu Dhabi}} 
* [[United Arab Emirates Air Force|Abu Dhabi Defence Force]]<ref name="jawa76p175">{{harvnb|Taylor|1976|p=175}}</ref>
;{{ANG}}
* [[National Air Force of Angola]]<ref name="World Air Forces 2010">{{cite web |last = |first = |url= http://docshare02.docshare.tips/files/5503/55032729.pdf|title = World Air Forces 2010|publisher= Flightglobal Insight |year= 2010 |doi = |accessdate= 4 May 2021|url-access=registration}}</ref>
;{{ATG}}
* [[Antigua and Barbuda Defense Force Air Wing|Antigua and Barbuda Air Wing]]<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.scramble.nl/military-news/antigua-and-barbuda-air-wing-to-be-established | title=Antigua and Barbuda Air Wing to be established | date=6 March 2022 }}</ref>
;{{BEL}}
* [[Belgian Army]]<ref name="jawa76p175"/>
;{{BLZ}}
* [[Belize Defence Force]]<ref name="fi21p13">{{harvnb|Hoyle|2021|p=13}}</ref>
;{{BWA}}
* [[Botswana Defence Force Air Wing]]<ref name="fi21p14">{{harvnb|Hoyle|2021|p=14}}</ref>
;{{KHM}}
* [[Royal Cambodian Air Force]]<ref name="fi21p14"/>
;{{flag|Central African Republic}}
* [[Central African Republic Air Force]]<ref name="fi21p15">{{harvnb|Hoyle|2021|p=15}}</ref>
;{{flag|Ciskei}}
* [[Ciskei Defence Force]]<ref>{{harvnb|''Flight International'' 27 November–3 December 1991|p=[https://web.archive.org/web/20150402103350/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1991/1991%20-%203095.html 41]}}</ref>
;{{CYP}}
* [[Cyprus Air Forces]]<ref name="fi21p17">{{harvnb|Hoyle|2021|p=17}}</ref>
;{{flag|Denmark}}
* [[Danish Home Guard]]<ref>{{cite press release |title=Flere fly til overvågningsopgaver |website=Defence Command Denmark |url=https://www2.forsvaret.dk/nyheder/nationale_opgaver/Pages/Flereflytiloverv%C3%A5gningsopgaver.aspx |accessdate=8 March 2020 |language=Danish |date=24 February 2016 |trans-title=More aircraft for surveillance tasks |archive-date=9 April 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160409211938/http://www2.forsvaret.dk/nyheder/nationale_opgaver/Pages/Flereflytiloverv%C3%A5gningsopgaver.aspx |url-status=dead }}</ref>
;{{FIN}}
* [[Finnish Air Force]] (leased)<ref>''Air International'' August 1975, pp. 54–55</ref>
;{{FLK}}
* [[Falkland Islands Government Air Service]]<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.fig.gov.fk/aviationservice/ |title= Falkland Islands Government Aviation Service |publisher= fig.gov.fk |date=  |accessdate= 14 May 2021 |archive-date= 13 May 2021 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20210513115637/https://fig.gov.fk/aviationservice/ |url-status= dead }}</ref>
;{{flag|Gambia}}
* [[Gambia Armed Forces]]<ref name="Krivinyi 1994 p. 137">Krivinyi 1994, p. 137.</ref>
;{{GHA}}
* [[Ghana Air Force]]<ref name="jawa76p175"/>
;{{GUY}}
* [[Guyana Defence Force]]<ref name="jawa76p175"/><ref name="fi21p19">{{harvnb|Hoyle|2021|p=19}}</ref>
;{{flag|Haiti}}
* [[Armed Forces of Haiti]]<ref name="Krivinyi 1994 p. 137" />
;{{flag|Hong Kong|colonial}}
* [[Royal Hong Kong Auxiliary Air Force]]<ref name="World Air Forces 1987 pg. 60">{{harvnb|''Flight International'' 28 November 1987|p=[https://web.archive.org/web/20190119174656/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1987/1987%20-%202510.html 60]}}</ref>
;{{IND}}
* [[Indian Naval Air Arm]]<ref name="fi21p20">{{harvnb|Hoyle|2021|p=20}}</ref>
;{{IDN}}
* [[Indonesian Army]]<ref name="fi21p20"/>
;{{IRL}}
* [[Irish Air Corps]]<ref name="fi21p21">{{harvnb|Hoyle|2021|p=21}}</ref>
;{{ISR}} 
* [[Israeli Air Force]]<ref name="Islander 2005 p. 155">Islander 2005, p. 155.</ref> 
;{{JAM}}
* [[Jamaica Defence Force]]<ref>{{harvnb|Hagedorn|1993|pp=137–138}}</ref>
;{{MAD}}
*[[Military of Madagascar]]<ref name="jawa76p175"/>
;{{MWI}}
* [[Military of Malawi]]<ref name="Krivinyi 1983 p. 238">Krivinyi 1983, p. 238.</ref> 
;{{MLI}}
*[[Air Force of Mali]]<ref name="fi21p23">{{harvnb|Hoyle|2021|p=23}}</ref>
;{{MLT}}
*[[Air Wing of the Armed Forces of Malta|Maltese Air Wing]]<ref name="fi21p23"/>
;{{MRT}}
* [[Military of Mauritania]]<ref name="fi21p24">{{harvnb|Hoyle|2021|p=24}}</ref>
;{{MUS}}
* [[Military of Mauritius|Mauritius Coast Guard]]<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Mauritius Coast Guard Defender |magazine = [[Air International]] |date=October 2010 |volume=79 |issue = 4 |page=20 |issn=0306-5634}}</ref>
;{{MEX}}
* [[Mexican Air Force]]<ref name="jawa76p175"/>
;{{MYA}}
* [[Myanmar Air Force]]<ref name="fi21p24"/>
;{{NEP}} 
* [[Nepalese Army Air Service]]<ref name="fi21p25">{{harvnb|Hoyle|2021|p=25}}</ref>
;{{OMN}}
* [[Royal Air Force of Oman]]<ref name="jawa76p175"/>
;{{PAK}}
* [[Pakistan Maritime Security Agency]]
;{{PAN}}
* [[Panamanian Public Forces]]<ref name="FI10 p44">''Flight International'' 14–20 December 2010, p. 44.</ref>
;{{PHI}}
* [[Philippine Navy]]<ref name="fi21p27"/>
* [[Philippine Coast Guard]]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://coastguard.gov.ph/images/2022_Files/PROC/APP_27Jan/APP_FY2022.pdf |title=PCG Islander aircraft maintenance budget items |website=Philippine Coast Guard|access-date=30 March 2022}}</ref>
;{{QAT}}
* [[Qatar Air Force]]
;{{flag|Rhodesia}}
* [[Rhodesian Air Force]]<ref>Brent, W. A., "Rhodesian Air Force – A Brief History 1947–1980", Freeworld Publications, 1988, p. 13-23.</ref>
;{{ROM}}
* [[Romanian Air Force]]<ref name="Krivinyi 1994 p. 137" />
;{{RWA}}
* [[Rwandan Air Force]]
;{{SEN}}
* [[Senegalese Air Force]]
;{{SEY}}
* [[Seychelles People's Defence Force|Seychelles Air Force]]<ref name="FI15 p47">Hoyle ''Flight International'' 8–14 December 2015, p. 47.</ref>
;{{flag|South Africa}}
* [[South African Air Force]]<ref name="Islander 2005 p. 166">Islander 2005, p. 166.</ref> 
;{{SUR}}
* [[Suriname National Army|Surinam Air Force]]
;{{THA}}
* [[Royal Thai Air Force]]<ref name="Krivinyi 1983 p. 238" />
;{{flag|Turkey}}
* [[Military of Turkey]]<ref name="Krivinyi 1994 p. 137" />
;{{UAE}}
* [[United Arab Emirates Air Force]]<ref name="Krivinyi 1983 p. 238" />
;{{UK}}
* [[Police Service of Northern Ireland]]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://siteapps.caa.co.uk/g-info/|title=G-INFO G-BSWR|website=Civil Aviation Authority|access-date=29 February 2020|archive-date=30 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171230082928/https://publicapps.caa.co.uk/modalapplication.aspx?catid=1&pagetype=65&appid=1&mode=detailnosummary&fullregmark=BRVE|url-status=dead}}</ref>
;{{VEN}}
* [[Army of Venezuela]]<ref name="Krivinyi 1994 p. 137" /> 
* [[Venezuelan National Guard]]
; {{flag|Zaire}}
* [[Air Force of the Democratic Republic of the Congo#History|Zaire Air Wing]]<ref>{{harvnb|''Flight International'' 27 November–3 December 1991|p=[https://web.archive.org/web/20161202234618/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1991/1991%20-%203125.html 71]}}</ref>
;{{ZIM}}
* [[Air Force of Zimbabwe]]<ref name="fi21p34">{{harvnb|Hoyle|2021|p=34}}</ref>
}}

===Civilian===
[[File:Vieques Air Link Britten-Norman BN-2 Islander at Benjamín Rivera Noriega Airport.jpg|thumb|Vieques Air Link Britten-Norman BN-2 Islander at Benjamín Rivera Noriega Airport]]
{{columns-list|colwidth=15em|

;{{flagof|Australia}} 
*[[Par Avion (airline)|Par Avion]] - 1 Islander: VH-ZOU<ref>{{Cite web|title=Par Avion - Fleet|url=https://www.paravion.com.au//?page_id=18/|access-date=2023-09-10|website=paravion.com}}{{Dead link|date=May 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>
*[[Torres Strait Air]] - 7 Islanders + 10 on order<ref>{{Cite web|title=Torres Strait Air - Fleet|url=http://torresair.com/?page_id=18/|access-date=2023-09-01|website=torresair.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.ch-aviation.com/news/131417-australias-torres-strait-air-inks-loi-for-10-bn-2-islanders|title=Australia's Torres Strait Air inks LOI for 10 BN-2 Islanders|publisher=ch-aviation|date=3 September 2023}}</ref>

;{{flag|Antigua and Barbuda}}
*[[LIAT]] - 5 as of 1979.<ref name="endp389">{{harvnb|Endres|1979|p=389}}</ref>

;{{BHR}}
*[[Gulf Aviation]]<ref name="endp13">{{harvnb|Endres|1979|p=13}}</ref>

;{{BLZ}}
*[[Maya Island Air]]- 3 as of 1979.<ref name="endp388">{{harvnb|Endres|1979|p=388}}</ref>

;{{BRA}}
*[[VOTEC]]<ref name="endp3356">{{harvnb|Endres|1979|pp=335–336}}</ref>

;{{flag|British Virgin Islands}}
* [[Air BVI]]<ref name="endp389"/>

;{{CAN}}
* [[Air Montmagny]]<ref>{{Cite web|title=Air Montmagny - Nos Avions|url=https://www.airmontmagny.com/nos-avions|access-date=2023-04-14|website=airmontmagny.com}}</ref>
* Great River Air<ref>{{Cite web|title=Great River Air - Our Fleet|url=https://greatriverair.com/Fleet/|access-date=2023-04-14|website=greatriverair.com}}</ref>
* Lawrence Bay Airways<ref>{{Cite web|title=Lawrence Bay Airways - Fleet|url=https://www.lawrencebayairways.com/fleet|access-date=2023-04-14|website=lawrencebayairways.com|archive-date=14 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230414195047/https://www.lawrencebayairways.com/fleet|url-status=dead}}</ref>
* [[Sable Aviation]]<ref>{{Cite web|title=Sable Aviation Aircraft|url=http://www.sableaviation.ca/aircraft.php|access-date=2023-04-14|website=sableaviation.ca}}</ref>
* South Nahanni Airways<ref>{{Cite web|title=South Nahanni Aircraft|url=https://southnahanniairways.ca/our-aircraft/britten-norman-islander/|access-date=2023-04-14|website=southnahanniairways.ca}}</ref>
* Villers Air Services<ref>{{Cite web|title=Villers Air Services Fleet|url=https://www.villersair.com/fleet|access-date=2023-04-14|website=villersair.com}}</ref>

;{{CUW}}
* [[Divi Divi Air]]{{citation needed|date=May 2021}}

;{{FJI}}
* [[Air Fiji]]<ref name="endp92">{{harvnb|Endres|1979|p=92}}</ref>

;{{FRA}}
* [[Air Caledonie]]<ref name="endp117">{{harvnb|Endres|1979|p=117}}</ref>
* [[Air Tetiaroa]]<ref>{{cite web | url=https://centreforaviation.com/data/profiles/airlines/air-tetiaroa | title=Air Tetiaroa Airline Profile &#124; CAPA }}</ref>

;{{GER}}
* [[FLN Frisia Luftverkehr]]<ref name="endp84">{{harvnb|Endres|1979|p=84}}</ref>
* [[OFD Ostfriesischer Flugdienst]]<ref name="endp88">{{harvnb|Endres|1979|p=88}}</ref>

;{{GRC}}
* [[Olympic Airways|Olympic Aviation]]<ref name="endp355">{{harvnb|Endres|1979|p=355}}</ref>

;{{IRL}}
*[[Aer Arann Islands]]<ref name="endp98">{{harvnb|Endres|1979|p=98}}</ref>

;{{flag|Montserrat}}
* [[FlyMontserrat]]<ref>[https://www.flymontserrat.com/aircraft.php Website FlyMontserrat], retrieved 21 January 2024.</ref>

;{{NZL}}
* [[Stewart Island Flights]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.stewartislandflights.co.nz/our-fleet/|title = Stewart Island Flights &#124; Our Fleet}}</ref>

;{{PUR}}
* [[Vieques Air Link]]
* [[Air Flamenco]]<ref>[https://flyairflamenco.com/aircraft/ Website Air Flamenco], retrieved 21 January 2024.</ref>

;{{GBR}}
* [[Hebridean Air Services]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.hebrideanair.co.uk/flights/Air_Charter.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100508122832/http://www.hebrideanair.co.uk/flights/Air_Charter.html |archive-date=8 May 2010 |title=Air Charter}}</ref>
* [[Isles of Scilly Skybus]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.islesofscilly-travel.co.uk/skybus/|title = Skybus}}</ref>
* [[Loganair]]<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.loganair.co.uk/loganair/aircraft |title=Loganair :: Aircraft - Loganair |access-date=2015-12-01 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208053608/http://www.loganair.co.uk/loganair/aircraft |archive-date=2015-12-08 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

;{{USA}}
* [[Cape Air]]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.capeair.com/flying_with_us/islander_aircraft_config_info.pdf|website=capeair.com 
|title=Aircraft Configuration Information|access-date=1 June 2023}}</ref>
* Crested Butte Air Service<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.timetableimages.com/ttimages/cs/cs77/cs77-1.jpg |title=Crested Butte Air Service
|website=timetableimages.com|access-date=1 June 2023}}</ref>
* [[Gem Air]]<ref>{{cite web| url=https://gemairflights.com/gem-air-airplanes/ |title=Gem Air Airplanes |website=gemairflights.com|access-date=4 Nov 2025}}
</ref>
* Gulf Coast Airlines<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.timetableimages.com/ttimages/uu1/uu74/uu74-1.jpg|title=Why wait? Check in times
|website=timetableimages.com|access-date=1 June 2023}}</ref>
* [[New England Airlines]]<ref>{{Cite web|title=Federal Aviation Administration - Airline Certificate Information - Detail View|url=https://av-info.faa.gov/detail.asp?DSGN_CODE=NEAA&OPER_FAR=135&OPER_NAME=NEW+ENGLAND+AIRLINES+INC|access-date=2021-07-11|website=av-info.faa.gov|archive-date=19 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210319044620/https://av-info.faa.gov/detail.asp?DSGN_CODE=NEAA&OPER_FAR=135&OPER_NAME=NEW+ENGLAND+AIRLINES+INC|url-status=dead}}</ref>
* [[Island Airways]]

;{{VAN}}
* Unity Airlines<ref>{{Cite web|title=Unity Airlines Aircraft|url=http://www.unity-airlines.com/aircraft.html|access-date=2023-04-14|website=unity-airlines.com}}</ref>

}}

=== Former operators ===
{{columns-list|colwidth=15em|
;{{FIN}}
* [[Finnish Air Force]]<ref name="Islander 2005 p. 150">Islander 2005, p. 150.</ref> (Britten-Norman BN-2A Islander)

;{{GER}}
* [[Luftverkehr Friesland-Harle]]<ref>[http://www.rzjets.net/aircraft/ rzjets: Luftverkehr Friesland]. Retrieved 23 September 2022.</ref>
* [[OLT Express Germany|OLT]]<ref name="endp88" />

;{{INA}}
*[[Sabang Merauke Raya Air Charter]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.oldjets.net/medan-polonia-airport.html|title=Medan Polonia Airport|website=oldjets.net|access-date=29 March 2021}}</ref>

;{{IRQ}}
*[[Iraqi Air Force]]<ref name="Krivinyi 1983 p. 238" />

;{{ISL}}
*Flugfélag Austurlands<ref>{{cite news |title=Flugáætlanir á Austurlandi í sumar |url=https://timarit.is/page/5317533#page/n3/mode/2up |language=Icelandic |access-date=2023-02-18 |work=Austri |date=8 June 1979}}</ref>
*Flugfélag Vestmannaeyja<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.verslo.is/baldur/20090811_Vestm/ | title=Flugfélag Vestmanneyja | access-date=18 February 2023 | archive-date=18 February 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230218175044/http://www.verslo.is/baldur/20090811_Vestm/ | url-status=dead }}</ref>
*Vængir<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.airliners.net/photo/Vaengir/Britten-Norman-BN-2A-9-Islander/1681962 | title=Aviation Photo #1681962: Britten-Norman BN-2A-9 Islander - Vængir }}</ref>

;{{flag|Montserrat}}
*Air Montserrat

;{{MUS}}
*[[RVL Aviation]]<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.rvl-group.com/our-aircraft/ |title=RVL Group - Our Aircraft |access-date=2015-12-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151211151012/http://www.rvl-group.com/our-aircraft/ |archive-date=2015-12-11 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

;{{NZL}}
* [[Barrier Air]]<ref name="3rdlevelnz.blogspot.com">{{Cite web|url=http://3rdlevelnz.blogspot.com/2015/05/the-barrier-connection-great-barrier.html?m=1|title=3rd Level New Zealand: The Barrier Connection - Great Barrier Airlines|date=17 May 2015}}</ref>
* [[Mount Cook Airlines]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://collection.motat.org.nz/objects/108118|title = &#91;ZK-MCD Britten-Norman BN2 Islander photograph&#93;}}</ref>
* Sea Bee Air<ref name="3rdlevelnz.blogspot.com"/>
* [[Fly My Sky]]<ref>{{cite news |last1=Anthony |first1=John |title=Fly My Sky owes creditors more than $800,000, including out of pocket customers |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/industries/125675301/fly-my-sky-owes-creditors-more-than-800000-including-out-of-pocket-customers |access-date=20 January 2023 |work=Stuff |date=7 July 2021}}</ref>

;{{PHL}}
* [[Philippine Air Force]]<ref name="fi21p27">{{harvnb|Hoyle|2021|p=27}}</ref>
* [[Philippine National Police]] - 2 Units .The [[Philippine Constabulary]] purchased Britten-Norman Islander 2A21 aircraft on September 26, 1979.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.scramble.nl/database/civil/details/bn2_412 | title=Civil Database }}</ref>

;{{PNG}}
* [[Talair]]

;{{ROC}}
* [[Republic of China Air Force]]

;{{SOM}}
* [[Somali Air Force]]<ref name="Krivinyi 1994 p. 137" />

;{{UK}}
* [[Royal Air Force]]<ref>{{cite news |title=Farewell Islander/Defender |url=https://www.scramble.nl/military-news/farewell-islander-defender |access-date=13 August 2021 |work=Scramble |publisher=Dutch Aviation Society |date=11 July 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=British Army Retires Final Defender, Islander Aircraft |url=https://www.key.aero/article/british-army-retires-final-defender-islander-aircraft |access-date=13 August 2021 |work=Key.Aero |publisher=Key Publishing |url-access=subscription |date=12 July 2021}}</ref>

;{{USA}}
* [[Stol Air Commuter]]<ref>April 15, 1975 Official Airline Guide (OAG), North American edition, San Francisco (SFO) flight schedules for Stol Air</ref>

;{{BHR}}
*[[Gulf Aviation]]}}

==Accidents==
[[File:Wreckage - 2005 Loganair Islander accident.jpg|thumb|[[2005 Loganair Islander accident]] Wreckage]]
* 1974 Harbor Airlines accident - On 26 December 1974, a Britten-Norman BN-2A crashed {{Convert|1|mi}} north of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport in a snowstorm; the pilot and three of the five passengers died. The cause was determined to be a clogged pitot tube.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://asn.flightsafety.org/wikibase/329746|title=Accident Britten-Norman BN-2A Islander N66HA, Thursday 26 December 1974|website=aviationsafety.net}}</ref>
* 1975 Aer Arann accident - Aircraft Overran. Written Off <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.baaa-acro.com/operator/aer-arann|title=Accident Britten-Norman BN-2A Islander EI-BBA, Thursday 17 October 1975 |website=BAA acro}}</ref>
* 1980 Aer Arann accident - Aircraft Overran. Written Off <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.baaa-acro.com/operator/aer-arann|title=Accident Britten-Norman BN-2A Islander EI-BBR, 7 July 1980 |website=BAA acro}}</ref>
* 1980 Flugfélag Austurlands Islander accident - On 22 September 1980, a Britten Norman BN-2A Islander flew into fog and crashed into Smjörfjöll mountain region in east [[Iceland]]; three on board died.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://aviation-safety.net/database/record.php?id=19800922-1 | title=ASN Aircraft accident Britten-Norman BN-2A-27 Islander TF-RTO Mount Smjörfjöllum }}</ref>
*1994 Sintang crash - On 25 April 1994, a Britten-Norman BN-2A Islander operated by [[Dirgantara Air Service]] struck Mount Saran while on descent in poor weather, 10 out of 11 on board died.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://asn.flightsafety.org/wikibase/324989|title=CFIT Accident IRMA/Britten-Norman BN-2A-21 Islander PK-ZAA, Monday 25 April 1994|website=aviatonsafety.net}}</ref>
* [[1996 Loganair Islander accident]]
* [[Air Satellite Flight 501|1998 Pointe-Lebel Air Satellite crash]]
* 2002 Tarakan crash - On 7 November 2002, a Britten-Norman BN-2A Islander operated by [[Dirgantara Air Service]] crashed shortly after takeoff after the pilot encountered engine problems and tried to land back, 7 out of 10 on board died.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://asn.flightsafety.org/wikibase/322957|title=Accident IRMA/Britten-Norman BN-2A-21 Islander PK-VIZ, Thursday 7 November 2002|website=aviationsafety.net}}</ref>
* [[2005 Loganair Islander accident]]
* [[Divi Divi Air Flight 014|2009 Divi Divi Airlines crash]] 
* [[Klawock Airport#Accidents|2005 L.A.B. Flying Service accident]]
* [[FlyMontserrat Flight 107|2012 FlyMontserrat crash]]
* [[2014 Romania Britten-Norman Islander crash]]
* [[2016 Sunbird Aviation crash]]
* 2018 Airlines of Tasmania crash - On 8 December 2018, a Britten-Norman BN-2A Islander operated by [[Par Avion (airline)|Airlines of Tasmania]] crashed in southwest [[Tasmania]] in a likely [[Visual flight rules|VFR]] into [[Instrument meteorological conditions|IMC]] incident<ref>{{Cite web |title=VFR into IMC and controlled flight into terrain involving Pilatus Britten-Norman BN2A, VH-OBL, 98 km west-south-west of Hobart Airport, Tasmania, on 8 December 2018 {{!}} ATSB |url=https://www.atsb.gov.au/publications/investigation_reports/2018/aair/ao-2018-078 |access-date=2024-06-16 |website=www.atsb.gov.au}}</ref>
*2021 Island Airways crash - On 13 November 2021, a Britten-Norman BN-2A Islander crashed while attempting to land at [[Welke Airport]] on [[Beaver Island (Lake Michigan)|Beaver Island]], Charlevoix County, Michigan. Four deaths were reported.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-11-14|title=4 dead in plane crash on Beaver Island|url=https://www.mlive.com/news/2021/11/4-dead-in-plane-crash-on-beaver-island.html|access-date=2021-11-14|website=mlive|language=en}}</ref>
*2022 Air Flamenco crash - On 15 February 2022, a Britten-Norman BN-2A Islander (N821RR) veered off the runway at [[Culebra Airport]] (CPX), [[Puerto Rico]] doing substantial right wing and propeller damage. None of the three persons on board were injured.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://aviation-safety.net/database/record.php?id=20220215-0|title=ASN Aircraft accident Britten-Norman BN-2A-9 Islander N821RR Culebra Airport (CPX)|website=aviation-safety.net|accessdate=1 June 2023}}</ref>
*2024 Air Taxi Vanuatu crash - On 15 July 2024, a BN-2A Islander operated by Air Taxi Vanuatu crashed close to its destination of [[Port Vila]]; one of the five people on board died.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Accident Britten-Norman BN-2A Islander YJ-AT2, Monday 15 July 2024 |url=https://asn.flightsafety.org/wikibase/399857 |access-date=2024-07-17 |website=asn.flightsafety.org}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-07-16 |title=One confirmed dead in Air Taxi Vanuatu plane crash |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/522284/one-confirmed-dead-in-air-taxi-vanuatu-plane-crash |access-date=2024-07-17 |website=[[RNZ]] |language=en-nz}}</ref>

==Specifications (BN-2B Islander)==
[[File:2006-05-25-172629 Iceland Hólmahverfi.jpg|thumb|Front view, on ground]]
[[File:Britten Norman BN-2A Islander AN1145141.jpg|thumb|Side view, on ground]]
[[File:Islander (F-OIJS) (8325582557).jpg|thumb|Planform view, showing low [[Aspect ratio (aeronautics)|aspect ratio]] wing]]
[[File:G-HEBI (8482113314).jpg|thumb|Inflight front view from below]]
{{Aircraft specs
|ref=Jane's All the World's Aircraft 1988-89<ref name=JAWA1988-89>{{harvnb|Taylor|1988|pp=301–302}}</ref>
|prime units?=kts
<!--
        General characteristics
-->
|crew=1 
|capacity=9 passengers / {{cvt|2048|lb|0}} maximum payload
|length ft=35
|length in=7+3/4
|length sigfig=4
|length note=
|span ft=49
|span in=0
|span note=
|height ft=13
|height in=8+3/4
|height sigfig=3
|height note=
|wing area sqft=325.0
|wing area note=
|aspect ratio=7.4:1
|airfoil=[[NACA airfoil|NACA 23012]]
|empty weight lb=4114
|empty weight note=equipped (without avionics)
|gross weight lb=
|gross weight note=
|max takeoff weight lb=6600
|max takeoff weight note=
|fuel capacity={{convert|137|impgal|USgal L|abbr=on}}
|more general=
<!--
        Powerplant
-->
|eng1 number=2
|eng1 name=[[Lycoming O-540-E4C5]]
|eng1 type=6-cylinder air-cooled horizontally-opposed piston engines
|eng1 hp=260
|eng1 note=

|prop blade number=2
|prop name=[[Hartzell Propeller|Hartzell]] HC-C2YK-2B [[constant speed propeller]]s
|prop dia ft=6
|prop dia in=6
<!--
        Performance
-->
|max speed kts=148
|max speed note=at sea level
|cruise speed kts=130
|cruise speed note=at {{convert|12000|ft|m|abbr=on}} (59% power)
|stall speed kts=40
|stall speed note=(flaps down)
|never exceed speed kts=183
|never exceed speed note=
|minimum control speed kts=
|minimum control speed note=
|range nmi=755
|range note=at {{convert|130|kn|mph km/h|0|abbr=on}} and {{convert|12000|ft|m|abbr=on}} (59% power, standard fuel)
|endurance=<!-- if range unknown -->
|ceiling ft=13000
|climb rate ftmin=860
|climb rate note=at sea level
|time to altitude=
|lift to drag=
|more performance=<br />
*'''Take-off run to 50 ft (15 m):''' {{convert|1218|ft|m|-1|abbr=on}} (at sea level)
*'''Landing run from 50 ft (15 m):''' {{convert|980|ft|m|-1|abbr=on}} (at sea level)
}}

==See also==
{{Portal|UK|Aviation}}
{{Aircontent|
<!-- include as many lines are appropriate. additional lines/entries with carriage return. -->
|related=
* [[Britten-Norman Trislander]]
* [[Britten-Norman Defender]]
|similar aircraft=
* [[Cessna 402]]
* [[Cessna 208 Caravan]]
* [[Dornier Do 28]]
* [[GippsAero GA8 Airvan]]
* [[Piper PA-31 Navajo]]
* [[Tecnam P2012 Traveller]]
* [[Antonov An-2]]
|lists=
|see also=
}}

==References==

===Citations===
{{Reflist}}

===Bibliography===
* {{cite magazine |title=Airscene: Military Affairs: Finland |magazine=[[Air International]] |date=August 1975 |volume=9 |issue=2 |pages=54–55 |issn=0306-5634 |isbn=0-903234-28-9}}
* BN Historians: ''Islander 2005 – BN-2 Production History, chapter Operators Index''. Staines, Middlesex 2005, pp.&nbsp;139–171.
* {{cite magazine |title=Directory:World Air Forces |magazine=[[Flight International]] |date=14–20 December 2010 |pages=26–53}}
* {{cite book |last=Endres |first=Günter G. |title=World Airline Fleets 1979 |year=1979 |location=Hounslow, UK |publisher=Airline Publications and Sales Ltd. |isbn=0-905117-53-0}}
* {{cite magazine |last=Fricker |first=John |title=The Britten-Norman Islander |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=2ltM0KXJ3WYC&pg=PA75 |magazine=[[Flying (magazine)|Flying]] |date=April 1968 |volume=82 |issue=4 |issn=0015-4806 |pages= 75–77}}
* {{cite book |last=Green |first=William |title=The Observer's Book of Aircraft |year=1976 |location=London |publisher=Frederick Warne & Co. Ltd. |isbn=0-7232-1553-7}}.
* {{cite book |last=Hagedorn |first=Daniel P. |title=Central American and Caribbean Air Forces |year=1993 |location=Kent, UK |publisher=Air-Britain (Historians) |isbn=978-0851302102}}
* {{cite book |last=Hamilton-Paterson |first=James |title=Empire of the Clouds: When Britain's Aircraft Ruled the World |year=2010 |publisher=Faber & Faber |isbn=978-0-5712-7173-3}}
*{{cite web |last =Hoyle |first =Craig |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/reports/world-air-forces-2021/141456.article|title = World Air Forces 2021|work=[[Flight International]] |publisher= Flightglobal Insight |year= 2021 |doi = |accessdate= 4 May 2021|url-access=registration}}
* {{cite magazine |title=none|magazine=The [[Illustrated Encyclopedia of Aircraft]] (Part Work 1982-1985) |location=London |publisher=Orbis Publishing |year=1985 |ref={{harvid|Orbis 1985}}}}
* Nikolaus Krivinyi: ''Warplanes of the World 1983/84.'' Bernard & Graefe Verlag, Koblenz 1983, {{ISBN|3-7637-5181-5}}.
* Nikolaus Krivinyi: ''Warplanes of the World 1994/95.'' Bernard & Graefe Verlag, Koblenz 1994, {{ISBN|3-7637-5922-0}}.
* {{cite magazine |last=Lake |first=Jon |title=Aircraft of the RAF - Part 8 Islander |magazine=[[Air International]] |date=December 2008 |volume=75 |issue=6 |pages=44–46}}
* {{cite book |last1=Ripley |first1=Tim |last2=Chappel |first2=Mike |title=Security forces in Northern Ireland (1969-92) |year=1993 |publisher=Osprey |isbn=1-8553-2278-1}}
* {{cite book |last=Simpson |first= R. W. |title=Airlife's General Aviation |year=1991 |location=London |publisher= Airlife Publishing |page=190 |isbn=1-85310-194-X}}
* {{cite book|editor-last=Taylor |editor-first= John W. R.|author-link=John W. R. Taylor |title=Jane's All The World's Aircraft 1976–77|year=1976 |publisher=Jane's Yearbooks|location=London |isbn=0-354-00538-3}}
* {{cite book |editor-last=Taylor |editor-first=John W. R. |title=Jane's All the World's Aircraft 1988-89 |year=1988 |location=London |publisher=Jane's Information Group |isbn=0-7106-0867-5}}
* {{cite magazine |title=World's Air Forces |magazine=[[Flight International]] |date=28 November 1987 |ref={{harvid |''Flight International'' 28 November 1987}} }}
* {{cite magazine |title=World's Air Forces |magazine=[[Flight International]] |date=27 November – 3 December 1991 |ref={{harvid |''Flight International'' 27 November–3 December 1991}} }}

==External links==
{{Commons category|Britten-Norman Islander}}
* {{Official website|http://www.britten-norman.com/islander}}
* {{cite web |url= https://www.forecastinternational.com/archive/disp_pdf.cfm?DACH_RECNO=1009 |title= B-N Group Turbine Islander |publisher= Forecast International |date= October 2013 |access-date= 12 October 2017 |archive-date= 12 October 2017 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20171012150720/https://www.forecastinternational.com/archive/disp_pdf.cfm?DACH_RECNO=1009 |url-status= dead }}

{{Britten-Norman aircraft}}
{{Authority control}}

[[Category:1960s British civil utility aircraft]]
[[Category:Britten-Norman aircraft|Islander]]
[[Category:Aircraft first flown in 1965]]
[[Category:1960s British airliners]]
[[Category:High-wing aircraft]]
[[Category:STOL aircraft]]
[[Category:Twin piston-engined tractor aircraft]]
[[Category:Aircraft with fixed tricycle landing gear]]