Britten Norman Turbine Islander Specifications & Booking
Overview of the Britten Norman Turbine Islander
The Britten Norman Turbine Islander is a versatile, twin-engine turboprop aircraft designed for utility, cargo, and passenger transport. Manufactured by Britten-Norman, a leading aerospace company, the Turbine Islander made its maiden flight in 1965 and has since become an iconic symbol of aviation innovation.
Technical Specifications
The following technical specifications provide a comprehensive overview of the Britten Norman Turbine Islander:
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Dimensions:
- Length: 53 feet 6 inches (16.3 meters)
- Wingspan: 43 feet 8 inches (13.3 meters)
- Height: 14 feet 2 inches (4.3 meters)
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Weight:
- Empty weight: 12,500 pounds (5,670 kilograms)
- Maximum takeoff weight: 26,000 pounds (11,800 kilograms)
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Engines:
- Type: Garrett AiResearch TPE-331
- Thrust: 550 horsepower each
- Fuel efficiency: 0.45 pounds per horsepower-hour (0.16 kg/kWh)
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Performance:
- Maximum speed: 260 knots (483 km/h)
- Range: 1,000 nautical miles (1,852 kilometers)
- Cruising altitude: 25,000 feet (7,620 meters)
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Capacity:
- Passengers: 12-14
- Cargo: 1,500 pounds (680 kilograms)
- Crew: 2
Design and Features
The Britten Norman Turbine Islander boasts a unique design that showcases innovative aerodynamics, materials, and onboard systems. Its distinctive bubble-shaped cabin provides ample space for passengers or cargo, while its high-mounted wing design allows for increased ground clearance and improved stability.
History and Development
The Britten Norman Turbine Islander has a rich history marked by significant milestones:
- First flight: October 1965
- Certification: June 1967
- Entry into service: December 1967 (with Loganair)
- Significant upgrades or variants:
- Britten Norman BN-2 Islander (1959): Original piston-powered model
- Britten Norman BN-2B-20 Islander (1970): Turboprop variant with Garrett TPE-331 engines
- Britten Norman BN-2T Islander (1993): Updated turboprop model with improved performance and avionics
Operational Use
The Britten Norman Turbine Islander has played a vital role in various real-world scenarios:
- Airlines or organizations that operate it:
- Loganair (UK)
- Flying Doctor Service (Australia)
- Island Airways (USA)
- Popular routes or missions:
- Short-range cargo transport
- Aerial survey and mapping
- Emergency medical services
- Role in aviation history:
- Record-breaking flights (1968)
- Military operations (e.g., surveillance, cargo transport)
Interesting Facts
Here are three interesting facts about the Britten Norman Turbine Islander:
- Famous flights: The Islander set multiple records for its speed and range in 1968.
- Award-winning design: The Islander won the prestigious 1970 Society of British Aerospace Companies' (SBAC) Award for Design Excellence.
- Pop culture appearances:
- Film appearance: "Airport '77" (1977)
- Television appearance: "Airwolf" (1984-1987)
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Britten Norman Turbine Islander unique?
The Islander's unique design features, such as its bubble-shaped cabin and high-mounted wing, provide increased space for passengers or cargo while improving stability and ground clearance.
How much does the Britten Norman Turbine Islander cost?
The estimated cost range for a used Britten Norman Turbine Islander is between $500,000 to $1.5 million, depending on configuration and condition.
What is the maximum takeoff weight of the Britten Norman Turbine Islander?
The maximum takeoff weight of the Britten Norman Turbine Islander is 26,000 pounds (11,800 kilograms).
What is the typical range of the Britten Norman Turbine Islander?
The typical range of the Britten Norman Turbine Islander is approximately 1,000 nautical miles (1,852 kilometers).
