FlightGlobal
• Dominic Perry
Britten-Norman has completed the first flight of an Islander assembled in the UK since 1968, marking a major milestone in the manufacturer’s production-reshoring effort. The aircraft is expected to be delivered in the coming weeks, with a second Islander already in production at Bembridge.
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Britten-Norman has completed the first flight of an Islander assembled in the UK since 1968, marking a major milestone in the manufacturer’s production-reshoring effort. The aircraft is expected to be delivered in the coming weeks, with a second Islander already in production at Bembridge.
The FAA has issued an airworthiness directive covering Lycoming O-235, O-540 and IO-540 engines after identifying defective piston pins. The directive creates a compliance requirement for operators and maintenance providers, with potential implications for general aviation safety, maintenance scheduling and aircraft availability.
The General Aviation Manufacturers Association has released its second-quarter 2026 report on aircraft shipments and billings. The update provides an industry snapshot of general aviation manufacturing activity, including the volume and value of aircraft delivered during the period.
High activity
Authorities intercepted five general aviation aircraft for violating a presidential temporary flight restriction. Violators face potential jail time, fines of up to $100,000, and suspension or revocation of their pilot certificates, underscoring the serious operational and regulatory consequences of entering protected airspace.
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Hungary scrambled two Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighters on Aug. 29 after a 24-year-old man allegedly stole a Cessna 172 from Kalocsa-Foktő Airport and flew without authorization toward the Paks Nuclear Power Plant. The aircraft made a forced landing near Gerjen before the fighters reached it.
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A Piper PA-24 traveling from Anchorage to Seldovia crashed into shallow coastal waters near the remote Alaska town, killing the pilot and three passengers. Authorities said the aircraft was completely submerged and recovered the victims after waiting for the tide to recede; it was Alaska’s second fatal aircraft crash in a week.
The FAA is directing operators of affected Lycoming engines to inspect piston pins and replace them where necessary after two engine failures. The action highlights a component-level safety concern with potential implications for general aviation operators, maintenance planning and fleet availability.
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