With the new Britten-Norman Islander jets SJC Group will establish a new company focused on building a fleet of fixed-wing jets for routes in the Mediterranean, Europe, and North Africa.
Britten-Norman, the UK aircraft manufacturer, has entered into a Letter of Intent with Malta-based SJC Group to order two factory new Islander aircraft, with an option for a third. The purpose of these new aircraft is to establish a new company under SJC Group focused on building a fleet of fixed-wing aircraft for transportation routes in the Mediterranean, Europe, and North Africa. The Islander aircraft, known for its low operating costs, short takeoff and landing (STOL) performance, and high availability rates, is considered the ideal solution for Gulf Med Aviation Services’ opportunities.
As part of the agreement, SJC Group has included options to upgrade the aircraft to Britten-Norman’s Green Futures scheme, which allows operators to trade back their conventional aircraft for the next generation zero carbon hydrogen-powered Islander. The hydrogen-powered variant is scheduled to enter service from late 2026, showcasing the commitment to sustainability and carbon reduction in the aviation industry.
Simon Camilleri, Chairman, SJC Group said, “We are very pleased to announce our first order with Britten-Norman, our neighbors at Safi Aviation Park. We are pleased to announce plans for a new Maltese-owned aviation business. Britten-Norman are great partners and have proven market-leading aircraft in the STOL space with over 50 years of experience. Their commitment to evolving their product to zero carbon is perfectly aligned with our vision.”
The Britten-Norman Islander has a proven track record of successful operations around the Maltese islands, serving as a littoral patrol aircraft for the Maltese Government and providing critical search and rescue capabilities along the 200 miles of coastline. This experience has solidified the Islander’s reputation as a reliable and versatile aircraft in the region.
William Hynett, Chief Executive, Britten-Norman said, “Having made a commitment to develop our own operations in Malta, we are really pleased to have been introduced to SJC Group and are looking forward to working in close partnership to support their plans. The Islander is the ideal aircraft to complement SJC Group’s expansion into fixed-wing operations, and our planned introduction of the hydrogen Islander will further assist in supporting SJC Group deliver sustainable aviation to Malta and the Mediterranean.”
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The two aircraft ordered by SJC Group will be among the first to be manufactured at Britten-Norman’s production facilities in Bembridge, Isle of Wight, and Solent Airport Daedalus. These aircraft will be equipped with the latest in glass cockpit technology, enhancing the flying experience and providing exceptional pilot situational awareness. Britten-Norman, being a Garmin-approved dealer, ensures that all new aircraft are equipped with advanced avionics. The collaboration between Britten-Norman and SJC Group signifies a significant step towards sustainable aviation and the future of carbon-neutral transportation in the Mediterranean region.
