Pilatus Britten-Norman BN-2A/B Islander

The Britten-Norman Islander is a light utility transport aircraft designed in the United Kingdom during the 1960s to serve short, unprepared airstrips in remote and island communities. Originally designed by John Britten and Desmond Norman, it first flew in 1965 and entered service in 1967, quickly proving its worth for inter-island and bush operations. The aircraft is known for its simplicity, durability, and ability to operate from grass, gravel, and dirt strips as short as 180 metres. Its high-wing configuration, fixed tricycle undercarriage, and twin piston engines make it highly reliable and easy to maintain in austere environments. Production has passed through several hands over the decades, including Britten-Norman, Fairey, and Pilatus, with manufacturing at various times carried out in Romania and Belgium. The type remains in widespread service with regional airlines, charter operators, air ambulance services, and military and government users around the world.