Deutsche Aircraft NEWS

Le Bourget, 19 June 2025 – Deutsche Aircraft has announced the onboarding of Aernnova as the supplier for the empennage of the D328eco regional aircraft at the Paris Air Show. This announcement marks a significant milestone as  Deutsche Aircraft has now secured all primary structure partners for serial production.

Aernnova, a global leader in aerostructures, will deliver build-to-print assemblies including:

• The composite empennage which is containing horizontal and vertical stabilisers, built using advanced composite technologies

• The metallic tail cone

“With more than 30 years of expertise in developing and producing composite aircraft structures, we are proud to contribute to the D328eco programme,” stated Ricardo Chocarro, CEO of Aernnova.  “We value this new partnership with Deutsche Aircraft and the opportunity to support a next-generation regional aircraft that combines versatility with an innovative design.”

The empennage assembly is a critical structural component of the D328eco, contributing significantly to aerodynamic performance and flight stability. Aernnova’s proven expertise in both composite and metallic aerostructures makes it a natural fit for this role.

“Welcoming Aernnova to the D328eco program is a significant step forward,” remarked Nico Neumann, CEO of Deutsche Aircraft. “With this agreement, we have now secured 100% of our primary structure suppliers. This is a key achievement as we move from development into industrialisation.”

A strategic milestone for the D328eco programme

The partnership between Deutsche Aircraft and Aernnova reflects a shared commitment to delivering a modern, efficient, and competitive aircraft to the regional aviation market. With its full supplier base now in place, the D328eco programme is well-positioned to advance through the next development phases, leveraging proven expertise, industrial capability, and programme momentum to support a successful entry into service in Q4 2027.

Le Bourget, 18 June 2025 – Deutsche Aircraft, in collaboration with Pratt & Whitney Canada today provided an update on the 40-seat D328eco® regional turboprop at the Paris Air Show 2025. This announcement follows of the successful roll out of the first test aircraft (TAC 1) in May 2025, and the completion of a joint synthetic fuel test campaign in late 2024. Pratt & Whitney is an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business.

Powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada’s PW127XT-S engine is a next-generation turboprop designed to meet the evolving demands of regional air travel, especially in markets, where operators face unique challenges such as short runways, harsh weather, and remote communities.

The D328eco is a next-generation turboprop designed to deliver:

• Up to 15 % improvement in fuel efficiency compared to its predecessor the D328®

• 40 % longer time on wing

• 20 % lower maintenance costs

These enhancements will significantly reduce operating costs and boost dispatch reliability, helping regional airlines deliver dependable services in demanding conditions.

"For over 40 years, we've been dedicated to supporting regional airlines by understanding their unique needs," said Maria Della Posta, President, Pratt & Whitney Canada. "With the PW127XT engine family, we've developed a solution that reduces maintenance and operating costs, delivering significant value to our customers."

Programme momentum and technical validation

In late 2024, Deutsche Aircraft and Pratt & Whitney Canada completed a successful flight test campaign using the D328 UpLift demonstrator. Conducted in partnership with the German Aerospace Center, this campaign included five flights powered by fully synthetic, zero aromatics Fischer-Tropsch fuels, confirming that the propulsion system performs to specifications using alternative fuels. This is a crucial step toward supporting future operational flexibility and sustainability goals.

"The joint test campaign confirms our ambition of making the D328eco ready to operate with future specifications for 100% SAF at Entry Into Service (EIS)," said Nico Neumann, CEO of Deutsche Aircraft. This, along with other platform updates, ensures the D328eco meets performance, and sustainability goals and provides a reliable, future-ready aircraft.

From roll out to certification

The roll out of the first test aircraft at Deutsche Aircraft’s Oberpfaffenhofen facility marked the shift from design to hands-on flight testing, which is scheduled to begin in 2026. The programme remains on track for type certification and Entry Into Service (EIS) in Q4 2027.

The D328eco is designed to serve regional operators with features including:

• Operational efficiency and high dispatch reliability

• Enhanced passenger comfort through a modern, spacious cabin

• State-of-the-art avionics and aircraft systems

• Short-field and remote operation capabilities

Deutsche Aircraft and Pratt & Whitney Canada continue to collaborate closely to ensure the aircraft meets the highest standards of performance, reliability, and efficiency, paving the way for a new era of more efficient regional air travel.

_{All performance comparisons involving Pratt & Whitney Canada’s PW127XT-S engine refer to its predecessor, the Pratt & Whitney Canada PW119C engine.}

Le Bourget, 17 June 2025 – Aerodata AG, a leading system integrator and expert in mission management systems for airborne reconnaissance, and German regional aircraft manufacturer, Deutsche Aircraft, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the Paris Air Show 2025. This marks the beginning of a strategic partnership to deliver a rapidly available, German-made Special Mission Aircraft solution for a wide range of surveillance and reconnaissance missions.

The goal is to have a solution in place for a Special Mission Aircraft ‘Made in Germany’ for use in a wide range of reconnaissance and surveillance scenarios for Deutsche Aircraft’s regional turboprop the D328eco. The D328eco and the D328® platforms will be equipped with, Aerodata's state-of-the-art mission management system AeroMission®, as well as other specialised mission equipment.

A proven legacy,  a future-ready versatile platform

The existing D328 platform has already demonstrated its multi-role capabilities through its service with the US Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) as the C-146A “Wolfhound”. With over 200,000 operational flight hours, the aircraft has proven its reliability in global mobility, MEDEVAC, cargo and passenger transport.

Building on this legacy, the D328eco introduces a new generation of mission-ready aircraft. Designed with modular cabin layouts, a large in-flight operable door, and quick conversion capabilities, the D328eco is engineered for multi-role operations—from ISR and maritime patrol to aerial firefighting, medevac, and humanitarian missions.

Strengthening European sovereignty in airborne surveillance

The strategic partnership combines Aerodata's unique expertise and decades of experience in the development, production, integration and certification of mission management systems and sensor technology for airborne reconnaissance with Deutsche Aircraft’s extensive technological expertise as a regional aircraft manufacturer. At a time of volatile geopolitical and security policy upheaval, this collaboration will significantly contribute to strengthening national and European airborne surveillance capabilities by rapidly delivering a ‘Made in Germany’ Special Mission Aircraft.

"Airborne maritime reconnaissance is a key component in protecting critical maritime infrastructure and serves to secure geopolitical freedom of action,” said Neset Tükenmez, CEO of Aerodata. “It is essential for the early detection of threats and contributes to maintaining sovereignty. We are therefore delighted to be working with Deutsche Aircraft to jointly develop a forward-looking complete solution for the D328eco, thereby further advancing technological progress in Germany".

“The D328eco is designed to be the most versatile and sustainable turboprop in its class,” remarked Nico Neumann, CEO of Deutsche Aircraft. “By partnering with Aerodata, we are combining proven mission systems with a next-generation platform to deliver a truly German-engineered solution for global ISR and special mission needs.”

Le Bourget, 17 June 2025 – Deutsche Aircraft announces the next step in its strategic evolution. Nico Neumann, currently co-CEO, has been appointed Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Deutsche Aircraft and Deutsche Aircraft Leipzig, with effect from July 1st, 2025, marking a natural progression in the company’s leadership journey. Dave Jackson, who has led the company as CEO for over 19 years, will focus his leadership at the group level, as CEO of Deutsche Aircraft Group, supporting Nico and the team in the operative entities.  

A managed transition for future growth

Jackson and Neuman have both worked together for over 15 years and this leadership evolution reflects a carefully planned succession that has been unfolding since late 2024. Nico Neumann, who has served as Co-CEO since January 2025 and previously as Chief Operating Officer, has played a key role in advancing the company’s strategic initiatives — including the roll out of the pioneering D328eco® test aircraft.

Dave Jackson will continue to shape the company’s future in his role at the group level, where his deep industry insight and strategic foresight will guide overarching initiatives and long-term vision. Under his leadership as CEO, Deutsche Aircraft achieved a remarkable turnaround and sustained the global operation of the Dornier 328 fleet, laying a strong foundation for the next chapter.

Guiding Deutsche Aircraft into the future

Nico Neumann brings nearly two decades of experience in aviation operations and program leadership. His contributions have been instrumental in shaping the company’s production strategy, industrialization roadmap, and resilient supply chain.

Dave Jackson, CEO of Deutsche Aircraft Group, commented:

“This is an inspiring moment for Deutsche Aircraft, having worked so closely with Nico I am confident that with his strong leadership skills and alignment with our core values, the company is positioned to reach new heights. I look forward to developing our broader strategic goals and supporting Nico and the team to achieve our long-term success.”

Nico Neumann, CEO of Deutsche Aircraft, stated:

“It is a privilege to lead Deutsche Aircraft at this exciting stage of growth. As we prepare for the market introduction of the D328eco, I remain committed to our mission of advancing sustainable regional aviation. I look forward to working alongside our dedicated team and trusted partners to realize our shared vision.”

Strategic priorities for 2025

As Deutsche Aircraft continues its forward momentum, it remains focused on four strategic pillars:

• Advancing the D328eco programme: Progressing development and industrialization of the next-generation regional aircraft built for sustainability and performance.

• Finalizing the Final Assembly Line (FAL): Completing the carbon-neutral assembly site at Leipzig/Halle Airport by Q4 2025.

• Strengthening strategic partnerships: Deepening engagement with partners to ensure agility and robustness across the value chain.

• Driving innovation and sustainability: Championing smart technologies and eco-conscious practices to shape the future of regional aviation.

Showcasing at Paris Airshow 2025

The Paris Airshow 2025 provides a global stage for Deutsche Aircraft to highlight its innovation roadmap, sustainability efforts, and leadership strength. The company looks forward to connecting with industry leaders and stakeholders to share its vision for a cleaner, connected future in regional aviation.

Le Bourget, 16 June 2025 – At the Paris Air Show 2025, Deutsche Aircraft unveiled the New Garmin G5000® PRIME Flight Deck for the D328eco at the Paris Air Show: the integration of Garmin’s G5000 PRIME integrated flight deck into the next-generation 40-seater D328eco regional turboprop. This announcement marks a significant advancement in regional aviation, combining proven avionics expertise with a sustainable aircraft platform.

Building on Garmin’s legacy of delivering over 30,000 flight decks worldwide, the G5000 PRIME brings a modern, touchscreen-based cockpit environment to the D328eco, delivering unmatched pilot-centric design, advanced automation, and global airspace compliance. Tailored for Part 25 transport aircraft and Part 121 operations, the G5000 PRIME will be a key enabler of the D328eco’s mission to redefine regional air travel with efficiency, operational flexibility, and environmental responsibility.

“The D328eco is designed to lead the next era of regional aviation,” stated Nico Neumann, Co-CEO of Deutsche Aircraft. “By integrating Garmin’s enhanced G5000 PRIME, we are equipping our aircraft with a future-ready flight deck that enhances performance, offers unmatched reliability, and ensures operational flexibility to meet the diverse needs of regional air travel.”

“The G5000 PRIME offers a scalable, intuitive, and connected cockpit solution that provides Part 25 transport pilots increased functionality designed to simplify operations and maximize situational awareness,” said Carl Wolf, Vice President, Aviation Sales, Marketing, Programs and Support at Garmin. “We are excited to continue our relationship with Deutsche Aircraft and launch G5000 PRIME into the regional aircraft market on the advanced D328eco.”

Next-generation flight deck for a next-generation aircraft

The G5000 PRIME’s crew-centric design and open architecturevallows for rapid adaptation to evolving technologies and mission needs. Key capabilities include:

• NEXTGEN compliance with CPDLC, FANS 1/A+, ACARS, and Performance-Based Navigation (PBN)

• Touchscreen interface with intelligent, context-sensitive displays

• Runway Occupancy Awareness (ROA) and other advanced safety-enhancing tools

• Fleet connectivity and  integrated health monitoring for predictive maintenance

• Proven reliability from over 30,000 Garmin flight decks in global service

As the D328eco programme advances, the G5000 PRIME will play a pivotal role in delivering a digitally connected, pilot-friendly, and sustainability-focused flight experience. Marking a significant milestone, Deutsche Aircraft has transitioned from the development phase to industrialisation—underscored by the unveiling of its first test aircraft, TAC 1 at the end of May 2025. This achievement highlights the programme’s strong momentum toward entry into service in Q4 2027.

Wessling, 28 May 2025 – Deutsche Aircraft has proudly unveiled the first D328eco test aircraft (TAC 1) at their headquarters in the Airtech Campus in Oberpfaffenhofen, a transformative moment for sustainable regional aviation. Following the announcement of the initial fuselage cut at the Farnborough International Airshow in July 2024, the programme has maintained steady momentum as it drives progress towards a more efficient and environmentally conscious future for regional air travel.

Building upon the proven legacy of the Dornier 328, the D328eco is an advanced evolution, not a clean-sheet aircraft. It delivers enhanced performance, fuel efficiency, an elevated customer experience and lower emissions, while retaining the versatility and reliability that airlines, operators and passengers have trusted for over three decades. The roll out of the test aircraft underscores Deutsche Aircraft’s commitment to innovation, decarbonisation and regional connectivity.

Engineering the future of regional flight

"The roll out of our first test aircraft marks a significant achievement in the D328eco programme and an important step towards our physical flight test activities,” announced Nico Neumann, Co-CEO of Deutsche Aircraft. “This milestone represents our transition from conceptual design to practical testing and industrialisation. At Deutsche Aircraft, we are proud to introduce an aircraft with the proven DNA of the Dornier 328, enhanced for better efficiency, reduced emissions and a superior customer experience, making it an optimal choice for regional operators worldwide."

"This milestone is a testament to our team's dedication and technical expertise,” added Olaf Lawrenz, COO of Deutsche Aircraft. “Building upon the robust foundation of the Dornier 328, an aircraft ahead of its time, we have integrated modern technologies to enhance efficiency and sustainability. The roll out reflects our commitment to delivering a next-generation regional aircraft that combines proven reliability with cutting-edge advancements to meet the evolving demands of regional aviation."

Marie-Christine von Hahn, Chief Executive Officer of the German Aerospace Industries Association (BDLI), emphasised the significance of the roll out for the entire industry. "Innovations in the air improve our lives on the ground. Deutsche Aircraft is sending a strong signal on behalf of the entire industry: German aviation is a global leader."

A next-generation regional aircraft

The D328eco is designed to set new standards in regional aviation, offering:

• Unmatched fuel efficiency with modernised aerodynamics and state-of-the-art propulsion systems.

• Optimised operational performance, capable of handling challenging runways, remote locations and extreme weather conditions.

• A future-ready platform, integrating next-generation avionics and cutting-edge manufacturing processes.

A clear path to the physical test campaign and certification

Following the roll out of the first test aircraft, Deutsche Aircraft is poised to start the test campaign, marking a significant step towards type certification and the aircraft’s subsequent entry into service in Q4 2027. The development of the D328eco is propelled by close collaboration with regulatory authorities, strategic industry partners and a highly skilled global supply chain. These partnerships ensure that the aircraft will adhere to the highest standards of performance, safety and sustainability.

Redefining regional air travel

The D328eco is more than just an aircraft; it is a symbol of the aviation industry’s progress towards climate-conscious, fuel-efficient regional air travel. As Deutsche Aircraft continues to push the boundaries of sustainable aviation, the roll out cements its position as a leader in the next generation of regional flight.

Celebrating with key stakeholders

The roll out event was attended by over 500 guests, including key stakeholders from the Bavarian and Federal Government, industry partners, suppliers and representatives from regional, national and international media outlets. This significant turnout highlights the considerable support and interest in Deutsche Aircraft's innovative approach to sustainable aviation.

At Deutsche Aircraft, our declaration 'We are the future of flight' reflects our ambition and the remarkable legacy of the Dornier 328 aircraft, inspired by the visionary spirit of its founder, Claude Dornier.

The Dornier 328, a significant milestone in aviation technology, entered commercial service in October 1993. Today, approximately 150 of these aircraft are still in operation worldwide. Its modern successor, the D328eco, is set to elevate this storied legacy to new heights.

Thomas Ahn, Chief Engineer of the D328eco at Deutsche Aircraft, leads this exciting journey. With nearly four decades of aviation experience, Ahn began his career at Dornier in 1987 and was instrumental in shaping the original Dornier 328 concept. Today, he is a driving force behind the next-generation D328eco program, which he sees as an essential “return to the roots” of German aviation excellence.

“The Dornier 328 was the last clean-sheet design of a complete aircraft system developed in Germany,” Ahn asserts. This moment marked a significant turning point. Since then, much of our local expertise has either diminished or relocated. However, history has taught us resilience; after World War II, we had to rebuild our aviation capabilities from the ground up. “Now, we stand at a pivotal crossroads once more,” Ahn states with conviction.

Rebuilding German aviation leadership

This time, we are prepared to seize the opportunity. Deutsche Aircraft is committed to building on the Dornier 328 legacy by developing an innovative aircraft that perfectly merges efficiency with cutting-edge technology.

“This is our moment to re-establish ourselves as a modern aircraft manufacturer with full system integration capabilities right here in Germany,” Ahn explains confidently. “We use advanced 3D modelling, seamless data sharing with suppliers, and state-of-the-art communication tools to enhance our development efficiency.”

While we embrace digital processes, the foundation of Deutsche Aircraft is built on the invaluable knowledge of seasoned professionals—individuals who not only craft and design but also possess a deep, nuanced understanding of how systems, materials, and safety requirements interconnect.

“Aviation is the pinnacle of human engineering—the most complex technical product we can build. Its systems are comparable to those of a nuclear power plant, yet they must also take to the skies,” Ahn emphasizes.

Aircraft are more than machines; they connect people, cultures, and ways of life. At Deutsche Aircraft, our vision extends far beyond technical specifications. We are resolutely dedicated to reestablishing Germany as a powerhouse in aircraft manufacturing on the global stage, with products that embody quality, sustainability, innovation, and reliability.

Thomas Ahn is unwavering in his belief that we can achieve this goal, even in the face of higher production costs in Germany. “To gain a competitive advantage here, we must combine efficient methods with the ability to integrate highly complex products,” he asserts confidently.

The future takes flight in Oberpfaffenhofen

The legacy that began with Claude Dornier continues in Oberpfaffenhofen, where innovation thrives. Located just 30 kilometres west of Munich, this site—where Claude Dornier once had the courage to “dare the impossible to achieve the best”—stands as a testament to German aviation history. Oberpfaffenhofen is now the heart of Germany’s aviation industry, pulsing with courage, vision, and a clear and unwavering commitment: We are the future of flight.

The determination to fulfil this vision is palpable at Deutsche Aircraft, where over 550 professionals from more than 40 nations collaborate daily. Each member brings their expertise, united by one powerful goal: to launch the D328eco into the skies and, in doing so, to script a new chapter in German aviation history. The D328eco is designed not just to fly but to excel in economic efficiency, performance, and sustainability. It can operate on 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF-PtL), positioning it to lead the turboprop revolution.

As we approach the rollout of TAC 1, the first D328eco test aircraft, a new chapter begins—one that transitions Deutsche Aircraft from development to industrialisation. Experience this historic moment. Register now to receive exclusive behind-the-scenes content, technical highlights, and updates directly from the team shaping the future of regional aviation.

Wessling, 15 May 2025 – Deutsche Aircraft is proud to announce its participation in the 2025 International Paris Air Show, taking place from 16-19 June. The OEM will showcase its groundbreaking 40-seater turboprop, the D328eco, at Chalet 264, presenting major advancements in sustainable aviation and customer-centric design.

Experience the D328eco at the Enhanced Customer Experience Centre

A key attraction at the Deutsche Aircraft chalet will be the D328eco mock-up, housed within the Enhanced Customer Experience Centre. Building on the success of the Farnborough International Airshow in 2024, this immersive space will offer:

• Interactive simulations showcasing the aircraft’s performance and efficiency

• Virtual reality demonstrations of the cabin and cockpit

• Personalised consultations with Deutsche Aircraft experts.

Visitors will discover the innovative features of the D328eco up close, including its low-emission propulsion system, advanced avionics and ergonomic seating that will elevate passenger comfort.

Milestone achievement: Roll out of first test aircraft – TAC 1

Deutsche Aircraft is also celebrating a major milestone with the upcoming roll out of its first test aircraft, designated TAC 1. This marks the transition of the D328eco programme from development to industrialisation, underscoring the company’s commitment to pioneering sustainable, next-generation regional aviation.

Attendees at the Paris Air Show will have the exclusive opportunity to learn more about the progress of the D328eco programme and the roadmap toward certification and entry into service.

Wessling / Atlanta, 12 May 2025 – Deutsche Aircraft, a leading regional aircraft manufacturer, has selected American Data Solutions (ADS) as the provider of its Technical Publication Management Solutions for the next-generation regional turboprop, the D328eco. ADS will equip Deutsche Aircraft with an integrated and advanced suite of solutions and services, featuring the MDDC™ Content Management System (CMS) and intuitive MDDV™ Interactive Electronic Technical Manuals (IETM), complemented by dedicated support. These powerful tools will revolutionise the generation, management and delivery of all D328eco Operational and Maintenance Technical Publications, enabling operators to significantly enhance their efficiency.

This initiative offers a unique opportunity to directly link technical manuals with real-time aircraft maintenance, providing operators with immediate access to the latest maintenance and operational techniques and advice, specific to their fleet or individual aircraft tail numbers.

The advanced 40-seater D328eco regional turboprop is set to enter service by the end of 2027. Building on the legacy of the D328®, it offers improved fuel efficiency, lower emissions and state-of-the-art avionics. To support this cutting-edge aircraft, Deutsche Aircraft requires a robust and scalable technical publication solution to ensure seamless maintenance, operational support and compliance with global aviation standards, including S1000D.

ADS’s proven expertise in aerospace technical data management makes it the ideal partner for this groundbreaking project. Their next-generation MDDC CMS suite will streamline the creation, storage and distribution of Technical Publications, while the MDDV Class-6 IETM will empower D328eco operators worldwide with intuitive, interactive access to vital maintenance and operating procedures, backed by ADS’s tailored support services to ensure rapid response times and maximum fleet availability.

“We are pleased to partner with ADS to deliver world-class technical data solutions for the D328eco,” said Nico Neumann, Co-CEO of Deutsche Aircraft. “Their innovative CMS and IETM platforms, combined with their deep industry knowledge, will allow our customers to operate the D328eco with maximum efficiency and reliability. This partnership is a significant step in our quest to transform regional aviation.”

“ADS is delighted to have been selected by Deutsche Aircraft to support the D328eco,” expressed Ran Meriaz, CEO of American Data Solutions. “Our next-generation technical data solutions are designed to meet the evolving needs of modern aircraft programmes, and we are thrilled to be part of the success of this groundbreaking aircraft.”

The selection of ADS underscores Deutsche Aircraft’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology and partnerships to deliver a sustainable, high-performance aircraft. With the first test aircraft scheduled to roll out at the end of May 2025 and entry into service planned for late 2027, the D328eco is poised to set new standards in the regional aviation market.

Leipzig, 30 April 2025 - With today's cornerstone ceremony for the final assembly line (FAL) of the D328eco regional aircraft at Leipzig/Halle Airport, Deutsche Aircraft has reached a significant milestone on the path to serial manufacturing of this innovative turboprop in the heart of Germany.

Since the groundbreaking ceremony back in May 2023, which also featured Saxony's Prime Minister Michael Kretschmer, extensive groundwork has been done near the site at Leipzig/Halle Airport to pave the way for a new era in German aviation. By the end of 2025, a CO2-neutral manufacturing facility, a commissioning hangar, a logistics centre, and an administrative building will be constructed on the 60,500 square meter site, equivalent to eight football fields, at Leipzig/Halle Airport. In the future, 250 to 350 additional employees will build up to 48 aircraft annually.

Nico Neumann, Co-CEO of Deutsche Aircraft, explains: "Today is a significant day for us as we commence the industrialization of the D328eco – a project we have been working on intensively over the past few years. This event is not only another important step for the D328eco but also a historic moment for Deutsche Aircraft and regional aviation in the region of Saxony and in Germany. With today's groundbreaking ceremony, we are making a clear statement: We are bringing the development of a regional aircraft, based on the DNA of Dornier, entirely back to Germany. The strong support from the government, our shareholders, and strategic partners, along with the dedicated team at Deutsche Aircraft, plays a crucial role in this success."

Saxony's Prime Minister Michael Kretschmer emphasised at the cornerstone ceremony: " The investment by Deutsche Aircraft in Saxony at Leipzig/Halle Airport is a strong signal and a positive development for the economic location. This project represents high technology, innovation, and climate-friendly manufacturing. It is associated with many attractive jobs and additional value creation in the region. At the same time, it strengthens our entire aerospace industry."

Yves Weerts, CEO and President of the Weerts Group, the investor and the construction group of the entire project, added: "We appreciate the professionalism, expertise, and enthusiasm with which Deutsche Aircraft is realizing this project. For our company, this collaboration and the connection to Leipzig/Halle Airport are important steps to establish a foothold in the German market.

Götz Ahmelmann, CEO of Mitteldeutsche Flughafen AG, emphasised: "With the production line for which we are laying the cornerstone stone today, our airport will become a beacon for sustainable air traffic in Germany. The D328eco will set standards in terms of climate-friendly production and environmentally friendly flying. Both are pioneering for the future of aviation and the economic development of the region: Airplanes are coming home!"

The cornerstone ceremony marks a significant advancement for Deutsche Aircraft and the region of Leipzig. It also underscores the successful collaboration between various stakeholders from international warehouse logistics, airport location, and manufacturing. The next milestone on the path for the aircraft made in Germany is the official unveiling of the first test aircraft, the D328eco TAC 1, on May 28th. The aircraft will be presented to the public for the first time at Deutsche Aircraft's headquarters at the Air Tech Campus Oberpfaffenhofen. With the world's most efficient and environmentally friendly regional aircraft in its class, Deutsche Aircraft will shape the future of regional aviation with the D328eco.

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Bangalore/Wessling, 17 April 2025 – Dynamatic Technologies Limited, India’s leading aerostructure manufacturer, and Deutsche Aircraft, the German Regional Aircraft OEM driving sustainable regional aviation, have proudly inaugurated the Rear Fuselage Assembly Line for the 40-seater D328eco turboprop aircraft at Dynamatic's state-of-the-art aerospace facility in Bangalore, India.

The inauguration marks the transition from planning and design to serial manufacturing and showcases the world-class aerospace engineering and production capabilities in India. This milestone builds on the strategic partnership announced in 2024 and strengthened at Aero India 2025, where both companies reaffirmed their commitment to developing the rear fuselage for the D328eco aircraft.

The momentous occasion was marked by the presence of Mr. Tobias Gotthardt, State Secretary of the Bavarian State Ministry for Economic Affairs, Regional Development and Energy, who officially inaugurated the assembly line. Also present were Mr. Nico Neumann, Co-CEO of Deutsche Aircraft, and Mr. Udayant Malhoutra, CEO and Managing Director of Dynamatic Technologies Limited.

Tobias Gotthardt highlighted the significance of this initiative in fostering international collaboration: "This collaboration between Deutsche Aircraft and Dynamatic Technologies exemplifies our mutual dedication to innovation, sustainability and economic growth. Bavaria, as a leading hub for aerospace innovation, is proud to support initiatives that not only strengthen our regional capabilities but also contribute to global advancements in green aviation."

Nico Neumann emphasised the global vision: "Our partnership with Dynamatic Technologies fortifies the global supply chain and underscores our commitment to sustainable aviation. This collaboration, supports the efficient regional transport system under the Udaan scheme, is a testament to Bavaria's role in driving aerospace innovation and fostering international cooperation."

Udayant Malhoutra added: “We are honoured to build this critical structure for the D328eco here in Bangalore. This assembly line is a testament to the 'Make in India' initiative, our deep capabilities in aerospace and our commitment to supporting green aviation goals globally.”

The inauguration of the assembly line represents a major boost to the strategic partnership between India and the European Union in the aerospace sector, fostering international collaboration, high-skilled employment, advanced technology transfer and a robust transnational supply chain. This collaborative effort between India and Germany, the EU’s largest economy, clearly demonstrates the shared vision to build a more sustainable and interconnected aviation future.

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Bodø, Norway, 14 April 2025 — Deutsche Aircraft, Energi i Nord (North Energy Cluster) and BLU (Green Artic Aviation Development) successfully hosted the third annual e-SAF Conference, a premier event in Northern Norway’s aviation hub, Bodø. This conference is dedicated to advancing the development and adoption of e-fuels in aviation and this year's gathering united aircraft manufacturers, airlines, SAF producers, policymakers, NGOs, researchers and financial institutions to foster business opportunities and accelerate the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF).

The Bodø e-SAF Declaration: A collective commitment to sustainable aviation

A highlight of the conference was the Bodø e-SAF Declaration, signed by Energi i Nord, BLU, Deutsche Aircraft and other key industry partners. This declaration underscored a shared commitment to sustainable aviation by advocating for:

• Long-term regulatory certainty, funding and the use of market-based measures like the EU ETS to support e-SAF development.

• The establishment of a European book & claim system to streamline SAF adoption.

• Cross-sector collaboration to drive innovation and accelerate e-SAF integration.

• A goal of 100% SAF usage in aviation.

• Annual progress reports to ensure accountability and transparency.

Industry leaders and experts champion SAF

Regina Pouzolz, Director of Sustainable Flight at Deutsche Aircraft, emphasised the power of working across disciplines: "Having the opportunity to have in-depth discussions with other stakeholders from the complex aviation and energy ecosystem leads to joint problem-solving. This exchange is key for rapid implementation of new technologies."

Laura Johanne Olsen, Program Manager of Lofoten the Green Islands, highlighted the region's strategic role: "With Lofoten's booming international tourism industry and its commitment to becoming a low-emission society, it serves as an ideal testing ground for sustainable aviation solutions."

Damien Meadows, Advisor at the European Commission, who advocates for continued European support for climate action including e-SAF, added: "We must stay the course and ensure regulatory continuity. The decisions and actions we take in the coming years will be far-reaching to scale up e-SAF. Broader carbon pricing can be a significant lever for decarbonising aviation and generating additional income to support e-SAF. If the aviation industry is not credible about tackling climate change, it will lose its societal license to operate. Damage is increasing exponentially from climate change worldwide, and there must be economy-wide action to avoid going dangerously beyond 1.5 degrees warming.”

"Sustainable Aviation Fuel is crucial for the transition of the aviation industry. Our Norsk e-Fuel partnership shows our commitment to scaling up production. We now need supportive policies to realise the potential of Sustainable Aviation Fuel production in Norway, in line with the Norwegian parliament’s ambitions," said Kristoffer Gustavsen, Senior Advisor for Public Affairs and Sustainability at Norwegian Air Shuttle.

"Developing a low-emission lime production is essential for reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainability. At SMA Mineral, we are committed to offer CO2 as a bi-product from our zero-emission quicklime production (ZEQL) and reusing this CO2 in partnership with e-fuel producers such as Infinium. This initiative not only helps in mitigating climate change, but also supports new business development and enhances the competitiveness of the industry," said Jan Gabor, Advisor for SMA Mineral.

The future of e-Fuels and air connectivity

he e-SAF Conference highlighted the pivotal role of e-fuels in sustaining air connectivity while minimising aviation's environmental impact. Bodø is part of a comprehensive network of domestic and regional airports, and the development of e-fuels is essential for maintaining connectivity in remote communities, supporting tourism and ensuring economic sustainability.

In addition, the conference was a platform for critical discussions as Northern Norway leads the transition to climate-neutral aviation. The Bodø e-SAF Declaration underscores the commitment of the undersigning parties to advance the SAF market.

Hyderabad / Wessling, 10 April 2025 – Cyient DLM, a key player in design-led manufacturing, has expanded its strategic partnership with Deutsche Aircraft, a prominent German regional aircraft manufacturer. Through this prospective multi-year contract, Cyient DLM will undertake the design, development and manufacturing of the Cabin Management System (CMS) for the D328eco, a next-generation 40-seater regional turboprop. This collaboration marks a significant milestone, as it will be one of Deutsche Aircraft's first electronics programmes designed and manufactured entirely in India, in support of the “Make in India” initiative.

The CMS chosen by Deutsche Aircraft boasts a user-friendly touchscreen interface, allowing crew members and passengers to effortlessly control various functions, including cabin lighting, passenger signs and lavatory operations. With a focus on enhancing passenger well-being, the CMS enables the easy adjustment of lighting intensity, tailored to activities such as working in-flight or encouraging rest and relaxation.

Leveraging their extensive aerospace expertise, Cyient DLM and Cyient aim to deliver a unique CMS solution for this class of aircraft. The system integrates multiple sensors and utilities to ensure ease of operation, safety and an improved user experience. This upcoming project is also a significant achievement for the Indian aerospace ecosystem, demonstrating its capability to develop and certify advanced products. The CMS will be constructed with a scalable and modular architecture, utilising the latest technology in displays and control electronics.

“Our expanded partnership with Deutsche Aircraft is a testament to the strength of our collaboration and shared commitment to driving aerospace innovation,” says Anthony Montalbano, CEO of Cyient DLM. “We are excited to bring our end-to-end design and manufacturing expertise to the D328eco programme—a next-generation aircraft that will set new standards for regional aviation.”

Nico Neumann, Co-CEO of Deutsche Aircraft, adds, “We are very pleased to start this partnership with Cyient DLM on the CMS, further strengthening the relationship between Deutsche Aircraft and the Cyient Group. Cyient has been a valuable partner in multiple areas of design and support, which has been crucial in our endeavour to bring the most modern and efficient aircraft in this class into service.”

“This partnership for the D328eco will enable Deutsche Aircraft to provide a modern CMS, a first for this class of aircraft. Cyient DLM’s proven capabilities make them an ideal partner in the design, development and series production of the CMS,” he concluded.

The initiative reinforces Cyient DLM’s leadership in the Indian and European aerospace sectors, positioning the company as a key enabler of next-generation aviation technology.

In the aerospace industry, the roll out of a new aircraft is a significant event that marks the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. Beyond unveiling an aircraft for the first time, it represents the realisation of a vision, the expression of technological advancements and a celebration of progress and innovation.

An aircraft roll out is often the first opportunity for the public to see a fully-assembled aircraft or a radical new design. New aircraft are generally kept under wraps until the official unveiling, due to competitive pressures. For aircraft manufacturers and aviation enthusiasts worldwide, it is a pivotal milestone.

Historically, roll outs have been momentous occasions. Since World War II, hundreds of new aircraft have made their debuts and these events can vary from modest ceremonies to grand celebrations. Aircraft roll outs often capture global attention, attracting celebrities, government officials and even the presence of royalty.

TAC 1: The future of regional aviation

At Deutsche Aircraft, we are excited to introduce TAC 1, the first prototype of the D328eco. This new aircraft combines next-generation turboprop technology with a focus on efficiency and performance. With its 40-seat configuration, our D328eco aircraft aims to revolutionise regional aviation, pioneering a new era of short-haul travel that promises to be both environmentally friendly and economically viable.

Unveiling the D328eco

For Deutsche Aircraft, the roll out of TAC 1 is a significant milestone that showcases our commitment to advancing aerospace technology.

Taking place in May 2025 at our headquarters in Oberpfaffenhofen, Germany, the TAC 1 roll out of the D328eco will be the first opportunity for the public to witness this groundbreaking new aircraft design, highlighting our commitment to transparency and our forward-thinking approach to innovation in regional aviation.

Propelling the Dornier legacy forward

Building upon the robust foundation of our Dornier heritage, the D328eco will uphold the excellence that has always defined us.

Our legacy aircraft, the Dornier 328 turboprop, was formally rolled out in October 1991, with the maiden flight taking place in December 1991. The D328 entered into service in October 1993. While production ceased more than 20 years ago, more than 150 Dornier 328 aircraft remain in active service, fulfilling a range of civilian and multi-role operations.

The next-generation D328eco boasts 25% more passenger capacity, state-of-the-art avionics and a 14% reduction in fuel consumption per passenger than the Dornier 328, representing the next level of performance, efficiency and environmental responsibility. The D328eco is more than just an aircraft; it embodies our unwavering commitment to excellence and quality.

From roll out to first flight

While roll outs are a highly anticipated event, it's important to note that an aircraft roll out is not the same as the first flight. During a roll out ceremony, the aircraft is typically towed into place, and will undergo extensive ground and flight tests before it can take to the skies.

Before the maiden flight of the D328eco, the TAC 1 prototype will be subjected to rigorous testing to ensure all systems meet the highest standards. Experts will conduct extensive ground testing prior to handover to the flight test team, verifying proper operation to ensure a safe flight test campaign. In parallel, flight test pilots will undertake more than 1,000 hours of advanced simulator training to become familiar with the aircraft handling, including failure scenarios and high-risk manoeuvres. This comprehensive testing ensures the aircraft’s readiness for safe and efficient operation.

Behind the scenes: TAC 1 blog series

The roll out of the D328eco TAC 1 is poised to make its mark in aviation history, joining the ranks of iconic roll outs such as the Concorde in 1967 and the Boeing 787 Dreamliner in 2007.

The D328eco represents a new era in aviation, combining efficiency, performance and cutting-edge technology. As the world anticipates its first flight, Deutsche Aircraft continues to push the boundaries of aerospace innovation.

In addition to the roll out event, we will be launching a blog series dedicated to TAC 1. This series will showcase our work behind-the-scenes and offer regular updates on the progress of the TAC 1 aircraft. Register here to stay up to date on the TAC 1 roll out and receive exclusive behind-the-scenes content and important updates!

A new chapter: From development to industrialisation

As we move from the development phase to the industrialisation phase for the D328eco®, a new era begins for Deutsche Aircraft with the appointment of Nico Neumann as co-CEO, following 18 successful years in various roles across the organisation. We are also excited to reconnect with you on our journey to reshape the future of regional aviation by addressing market changes and pressing environmental challenges. The dedication and talent of our team continue to inspire us, and we believe that the launch of our next-generation turboprop will mark a defining moment for our industry.

In this inaugural quarterly newsletter, we will share updates on our progress, insights into our strategic direction, and reflections on key milestones that demonstrate our commitment to innovation and excellence.

Deutsche Aircraft Supplier Summit

In February, Deutsche Aircraft hosted more than 60 suppliers at the first Deutsche Aircraft Supplier Summit in Oberpffafenhofen. During the event, industry experts shared their insights on supply chain resilience, environmentally friendly technologies and innovation. With our supplier network for the D328eco nearly complete, we presented awards to top performers. Attendees also had the unique opportunity to take a closer look at TAC 1, the first test aircraft of our D328eco.

Spotlight on India

Building on our announcement to collaborate with Cyient on the detailed design for manufacturing for the rear fuselage of the D328eco, we also have expanded our strategic partnership. The global intelligent engineering services company will also manage the technical documentation to support the product lifecycle of safety-critical aviation systems for the D328eco. This solution, powered by Cyient’s AI products, underlines our shared commitment to delivering innovative solutions and driving forward advancements in aviation technology.

During the first quarter, we demonstrated our commitment to India’s UDAN scheme and ‘Make in India’ initiative through our partnership with Dynamatic Technologies at Aero India 2025. Dynamatic is currently manufacturing the rear fuselage of the D328eco and by leveraging India’s world-class engineering and precision manufacturing capabilities, we are creating highly skilled jobs and strengthening the country’s aerospace ecosystem. Our team’s presence at the Dynamatic Technologies chalet during the airshow in Bangalore reinforced our partnership and India’s growing prominence in the aviation sector.

Remarkable women in aviation

To celebrate Women Of Aviation Worldwide Week in March, we spoke with some of the extraordinary #WomenAtDA to address key strategies for empowering women in aviation. We discussed a range of ideas, including the provision of scholarships and grants to alleviate the high cost of aviation training, upskilling and professional development opportunities, and the importance of mentorship and representation. Watch our inspiring #WomenAtDA series on our YouTube channel for insider tips.

We are proud to announce the appointment of Patricia Ferrari as Vice President of Supply Chain, a testament to the exceptional talent we have within our team. In this pivotal role, Patricia will lead and manage our supply chain organisation with a focus on delivering unparalleled quality and efficiency, all while driving our commitment to sustainable aviation. This leadership transition follows Maximilian D. Fahr’s departure, and we express our sincere gratitude for his dedicated service during his tenure. Patricia, who joined Deutsche Aircraft in January 2022 as the Head of Procurement, seamlessly advanced to the role of Director of Supply Chain in 2023. Since May 2024, she has excelled as Interim Vice President, during which time she effectively completed supplier onboarding for the D328eco programme.

Outlook

As we look forward, our team is diligently preparing for the Roll Out Ceremony of our inaugural test aircraft, the D328eco TAC 1, scheduled for May. This event will be followed by our participation in the esteemed Paris Air Show in June. Additionally, later this year, we are excited to mark the inauguration of our Final Assembly Line. I look forward to sharing the journey of Deutsche Aircraft with you as we lead the #TurbopropRevolution in regional aviation.

Warmest regards,

Nico Neumann

Co-CEO of Deutsche Aircraft

Wessling, 06 March 2025 – Deutsche Aircraft is pleased to announce the official appointment of Patricia Ferrari as Vice President of Supply Chain. Ferrari will lead and manage the supply chain organisation, working closely with strategic partners to ensure exceptional quality and efficiency while accelerating the transition to more sustainable aviation. Her appointment follows the departure of Maximilian D. Fahr. Deutsche Aircraft extends its gratitude to Mr Fahr for his dedication and commitment, wishing him all the best for his future endeavours.

Ferrari joined Deutsche Aircraft in January 2022 as the Head of Procurement and assumed the role of Director Supply Chain in 2023. She has served as Interim Vice President since May 2024, successfully finalising supplier onboarding for the D328eco® programme and coordinating operational activities that have resulted in cost reduction, improved supplier performance and ensured compliance.

Born in Brazil, Ferrari holds a Bachelor’s degree in Production Engineering and Materials from the University of São Carlos, along with a Master’s degree in Production Engineering. She began her career at Embraer as a Process Development Engineer in 1999. In 2004, she moved to the Supply Chain organisation, where she built a successful career, coordinating the development and contracting of suppliers for the Phenom 100 and 300, Praetors and E-Jets E2. From 2014 to 2018, she held the position of Vice President of Shared Services and subsequently served as Vice President of Supply Chain at Embraer until December 2020. Prior to joining Deutsche Aircraft, she was Managing Director of the Embraer Landing Gear Division in São Paulo.

Nico Neumann, Co-CEO of Deutsche Aircraft, stated, “Our partners and suppliers are essential to our journey toward successful and sustainable production. They play a crucial role in our industrial setup, which will ultimately support the series assembly of the D328eco in Leipzig. Patricia has demonstrated excellent leadership skills as well as proactive and practical acumen, so we are delighted to appoint her as the official Vice President of Supply Chain.”

Patricia Ferrari, VP Supply Chain at Deutsche Aircraft expressed her enthusiasm for her new position, “This is a pivotal moment as we continue to grow our business and prepare for the manufacturing of the D328eco. I look forward to collaborating with outstanding professionals as we strive for sustainable and intelligent regional aviation and advance the turboprop revolution. A strong network of reliable partners is essential on this journey.”

Women were among the first aviators, many even before they had voting rights. To mark the anniversary of Raymonde de Laroche obtaining the first female pilot licence on 8 March 1910, Women Of Aviation Worldwide (WOAW) Week is celebrated as a call to address the gender imbalance in the air and space industry.

Despite women making up 41% of the aviation workforce today, the representation of female pilots, air traffic controllers and maintenance technicians is still a disproportionately low 5.1%, according to the 2024 IATA Gender In Aviation report. WOAW Week aims to challenge the industry to examine current practices and step up to close this great divide in the gender gap.

From 3-9 March 2025, individuals, organisations and schools all over the world will take part in special events to commemorate female aviation pioneers, celebrate their achievements and encourage girls and women to explore careers in aviation. Since 2010, the Institute for Women Of Aviation Worldwide (iWOAW) has been leading the global movement to make gender balance in the aviation industry a reality, reaching over 500,000 women in 75 countries, organising various challenges during WOAW Week and awarding prizes and scholarships.

From trailblazers to today

Many early female aviators saw flight as a symbol of independence. Pioneers such as Amelie Beese (the first woman to patent an aircraft design), Bessie Coleman (the first black female to obtain a pilot license), Harriet Quimby (the first woman to fly over the English Channel) and Marga von Etzdorf (the first female airline pilot) have inspired generations of women to defy limitations.

While the Wright brothers built and flew the first airplane in 1903, their younger sister Katharine was a crucial, often overlooked, figure in the history of aviation. Instrumental in managing their communications and funding, her contribution allowed her brothers to focus on their aeronautical pursuits. A teacher and activist for the women’s suffrage movement, Katharine Wright also accompanied her brother Wilbur on demonstration flights in 1909, making her one of the first women to fly in a plane.

Although anti-discrimination laws introduced in the 1960s dismantled gendered barriers that limited women to specific roles such as flight attendants, the promise of equality in aviation has yet to be realised. While traditionally male-dominated industries such as engineering and technology are seeing a more diverse workforce, the air and space sector still has a long way to go.

Breaking down barriers: Strategies for empowering women in aviation

The aviation sector has long grappled with its gendered legacy, but this underrepresentation means that the industry is missing out on the wealth of diverse perspectives, leadership styles and experiences that women bring. While addressing systematic barriers is the first step to advancing women in aviation, mentorship, representation and active empowerment will encourage women to thrive in this sector. We spoke to some of the women working at Deutsche Aircraft about their experiences and advice to achieve gender equality in the aviation industry.

Fund pathways to aviation

The cost of education and training prevents more females from entering the aviation industry. Increasing access to higher education, sponsoring programs that encourage young women to pursue STEM and offering scholarships and financial support will allow more women to enter the field. “As a woman in the aviation industry, I have come to an understanding that it's not easy,” says Biljana Pankova, Junior Electrical Engineer in the Electrics and Avionics team. “It’s challenging and one has to be more resilient.”

Normalise flexible work

According to the 2023 IWG survey, 88% of women believe that hybrid work “serves as an equaliser in the workplace.” Women value the work-life balance of the hybrid model, especially as they shoulder the greater share of child-rearing, caregiving and domestic responsibilities in many cultures. Offering flexible work arrangements for working mothers also allows them to take the time to raise a family without facing the “motherhood penalty.”

Raise up role models

Visibility and the recognition of achievements at all levels inspires and empowers women to take on leadership roles. “Representation matters,” says Melis Caykara Akdeniz, Project Manager in Mechanical Systems. “When young women see engineers who look like them, leaders who look like them, pilots who look like them, their dreams are not only possible, they’re achievable. Every barrier we break and every step we take opens the way for someone else. Being a woman in aviation is not just about the job. It’s about resilience. It’s about breaking barriers and being a role model for future generations.”

Invest in talent and training

Aviation companies seeking to diversify their workforce must invest in mentorship programs and outreach initiatives to provide more opportunities for women to pursue careers. HR representatives need to actively recruit women at universities, technical schools, job fairs and online platforms as well as provide continued opportunities for professional development and leadership training. “Keep learning and adapting. Stay curious. Ask questions, keep evolving your skills and never stop growing,” advises Akdeniz.

Cultivate a culture of respect and inclusion

The basic tenet of promoting equality in the workplace is implementing clear policies against discrimination and addressing bias through training and awareness campaigns. Women need to feel safe to voice their opinions and feel heard when they do.

“Go for it, even if you are the only woman in the room,” advises Akdeniz. “Don't let the lack of representation discourage you. Be the representation. Speak up and take space. Your ideas and your contribution matter. Own your expertise and don't hesitate to share your thoughts and ideas.”

Champion industry-wide initiatives

The growing recognition of the gender gap is driving global initiatives to motivate women to enter aviation. WOAW Week and IATA’s 25by2025 are leading examples of the industry taking action to increase the number of women in senior positions. To enhance diversity, equity and inclusion, the 25by2025 initiative aims to improve female representation in the aviation industry by 25% by the end of 2025. Despite its gradual progress, the statistics are positive. Canadian women represented 12% of all pilot licenses issued in 2023 and India ranks the highest in terms of gender diversity in aviation, with women accounting for 14% of airline pilots in the country (IATA 2024).

Value unique insights

Diverse viewpoints are fundamental when it comes to innovation. Women’s perspectives in this traditionally male-dominated industry has the potential to disrupt established norms and challenge existing assumptions, leading to creative new ideas.

“Women can bring a lot of good insights when it comes to design,” remarks Pankova. “Since I work on the design of aircraft systems, I see women bringing a lot of different perspectives when it comes to safer aviation and safer planes.”

Establish mentorship networks

Creating opportunities for experienced female employees to connect with new hires builds a strong network of support and advocacy. When Selma Aydin, Production Worker for Manufacturing, first started at Deutsche Aircraft, “it was all very new to me. But as my colleagues had experience in the aviation industry, they really helped me to master the challenges,” she reflects gratefully.

“I think it's crucial that the women who are already there are empowering the younger generations and making sure that we have a wide spectrum of skills and competencies,” remarks Rossella Vacchelli, ESG Manager. “The more we lift each other up, the stronger we become as a community,” adds Akdeniz.

Empower female voices

The journey towards gender equality in aviation is not just about dismantling barriers; it’s about amplifying the voices of women and inspiring the next generation. “Don't doubt yourself. The aviation industry needs your talent, your vision and your voice. The sky is not the limit. It's just the beginning,” asserts Akdeniz. “I believe women have an incredible opportunity to shape the future of aviation, not just as engineers or pilots, but as leaders, innovators and decision makers. The future of aviation belongs to everyone, and I'm excited to see more women taking their place in shaping it.”

“If I met a young female colleague, I would tell her to be resilient and push back,” says Melanie Kluge, Aircraft Mechanic.

“I will continue to speak up,” says Pankova. “I will continue to speak the truth. I will continue to give my opinion. The feedback I have received from my mentors, who are mostly male, is that I should continue to be myself.”

#WomenAtDA: Your career in aviation starts here

At Deutsche Aircraft, we value excellence, sustainability, openness, respect and collaboration. We believe these values are best realised through a diverse and inclusive workforce. Our multicultural team hails from 44 countries and we offer comprehensive benefits designed to prioritise the well-being and work-life balance of our employees.

Women hold significant leadership positions across all facets of our organisation, from Vice President Sales & Marketing to Director Sustainable Flight. This also extends to technical fields, with women excelling as aircraft mechanics, manufacturing engineers and project managers at Deutsche Aircraft.

“In order to propel aviation to a more sustainable future, we need a diverse environment,” remarks Vacchelli. “We need more women in leadership positions, but we also need more women in every other position, because it’s not only the leadership that shapes the industry,” adds Pankova.

If you are curious about a career in aviation, watch the #WomenAtDA series on our YouTube channel for insider tips, visit our careers page for open positions or contact our HR department.

“Just apply,” urges Pankova. “There’s nothing to be scared of. It’s just like any other job, but it's more exciting. It’s way cooler to say that you work in aviation.”

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‍We would like to thank Biljana Pankova, Melis Caykara Akdeniz, Rossella Vacchelli, Melanie Kluge and Selma Aydin for sharing their thoughtful insights on women in aviation. We are also grateful for the valuable contribution of all the women at Deutsche Aircraft, who are essential to our success.

Wessling, Germany – February 19, 2025 – Deutsche Aircraft welcomed over 100 representatives from more than 60 suppliers to the first Deutsche Aircraft Supplier Summit at the AirTech Campus in Oberpfaffenhofen. The event highlighted the company’s progress in securing its supply chain, with nearly 100% of its major suppliers now confirmed, further solidifying Deutsche Aircraft’s commitment to bringing the 40-seater turboprop D328eco to the market.

The summit provided a platform for industry collaboration, addressing supply chain resilience, sustainability, and innovation. Representatives from Deutsche Aircraft and its partners shared insights on the future of regional aviation, fostering discussions on accelerating the development and production of the next-generation aircraft. At the supplier summit, the top suppliers were also presented with awards.

With a strong emphasis on sustainable manufacturing, Deutsche Aircraft continues to set new benchmarks for regional aviation. The summit featured networking opportunities, allowing industry experts to exchange ideas on optimizing production processes and integrating environmentally friendly technologies. The suppliers had also the opportunity to have a closer look at TAC 1, the first D328eco Test Aircraft, which is getting ready for the roll out this year ahead of Paris Airshow in June.

“We are proud to have achieved a significant milestone in finalizing our supplier network, Nico Neumann, Co-CEO at Deutsche Aircraft. In these challenging times, strong suppliers and partners are vital. The strength and resilience of our supply chain affect our ability to deliver on promises and advance sustainable regional aviation.

Olaf Lawrenz, COO at Deutsche Aircraft, emphasized the importance of collaboration: “Our suppliers are more than just partners—they are essential contributors to our mission of transforming regional air travel. By working together, we ensure a seamless supply chain that meets the highest industry standards.”

Among the key topics discussed was the role of technology in enhancing supply chain efficiency. Patricia Ferrari, VP Supply Chain at Deutsche Aircraft, highlighted the company’s forward-looking approach: “We aim to implement digital tools and data-driven processes to create a more agile and transparent supply chain. This allows us to anticipate challenges and respond proactively to market demands. In times of an extremely demanded supply chain enabling a good forecast and demand planning plays a vital rule”

As Deutsche Aircraft advances toward the production of its new generation of aircraft, supplier engagement remains a priority. Wolfgang Kuhl, Director Program D328eco at Deutsche Aircraft, concluded: “We are not just building aircraft, we shape the future of aviation. The commitment and flexibility of our suppliers play a crucial role and make the difference on the way to a successful, efficient and sustainable product that is demanded by a growing market.”

With this successful summit, Deutsche Aircraft reinforces its commitment to fostering strong industry partnerships and leading the way in sustainable regional aviation.

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Wessling/Bangalore, 10 February 2025 – Dynamatic Technologies Limited, South Asia’s leading aerostructure manufacturer, has partnered with Deutsche Aircraft, a regional aircraft OEM, at Aero India 2025 in Bangalore, one of India's premier airshows. Dynamatic is hosting the Deutsche Aircraft team at chalet number 40, marking a significant step in the aviation sector and supporting the "Make in India" initiative.

As India evolves into a major hub for regional aviation, Deutsche Aircraft is advancing its D328eco®, a 40-seat turboprop aircraft designed to enhance connectivity, sustainability, and economic efficiency. The D328eco features a fuel-efficient engine and state-of-the-art avionics, aligning perfectly with India's UDAN scheme, which promotes connectivity to Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. In addition, the aircraft's versatile design allows it to serve various roles, including passenger transport, cargo, and specialized mission operations. Through collaboration with Dynamatic Technologies, Deutsche Aircraft is strengthening its supply chain resilience while reinforcing its commitment to the Indian aviation sector. The D328eco is poised to revolutionize regional air travel worldwide, offering a spacious interior and exceptional performance capabilities, along with outstanding design and operational adaptability.

Last year, the two companies entered a strategic partnership to manufacture the rear fuselage of the D328eco. This collaboration aims to establish a robust ecosystem in India, creating valuable employment opportunities for the local industry. Progress in rear fuselage production indicates that the project is on track, capitalizing on a successful design and production ecosystem in India. The Dynamatic team and Deutsche Aircraft recently reached a key milestone in their partnership with the successful completion of the critical process review and tooling critical design review. This collaboration is essential to the overall success of the D328eco aircraft programme. Both companies are committed to ensuring the success of their partnership and the future of the D328eco. As they work together, they strive to provide a product that meets the needs of regional air travel while adhering to sustainability goals.

Udayant Malhoutra, CEO and Managing Director of Dynamatic Technologies Limited, stated, “The D328eco, with its cutting-edge fuel efficiency and reduced carbon footprint, will be the preferred choice for regional airliners worldwide. Dynamatic Technologies, responsible for manufacturing the rear fuselage, showcases India's aerospace capabilities on a global scale through world-class engineering and precision manufacturing. This initiative has strengthened the 'Make in India' movement, generating high-skilled jobs and fostering a thriving aerospace ecosystem in the country.”

Nico Neumann, Co-CEO of Deutsche Aircraft, remarked, “The D328eco is a testament to the power of global collaboration in advancing sustainable aviation. Our partnership with Dynamatic Technologies highlights India's growing role in high-end aerospace manufacturing. By leveraging world-class engineering and precision manufacturing in India, we are not only reducing the carbon footprint of regional aviation but also contributing to the 'Make in India' initiative—creating high-skilled jobs and strengthening the country’s aerospace ecosystem.”

Dynamatic Technologies and Deutsche Aircraft invite attendees at Aero India 2025 to visit chalet number 40 to learn more about this exciting partnership and the future of the D328eco regional turboprop. Together, both companies are paving the way for a new era in regional aviation, contributing to the advancement of the aerospace sector in India and beyond.

Thirty years ago, air travel in India was considered a luxury, with state-owned airlines dominating a landscape of high fares and limited routes. Today, India boasts the world’s third-largest domestic aviation market, with passenger traffic soaring to an impressive 220 million in 2024.

As air travel becomes more affordable and accessible, the sector is expanding at a rate of 6.2%, significantly outpacing the global average of 3.6%. This remarkable trajectory – fuelled by a growing middle class, visionary government policies and the emergence of low-cost carriers – is more than a post-pandemic rebound, with ongoing investments in infrastructure playing a key role in meeting the rising demand for regional connectivity.

Significant macroeconomic expansion fuels air travel demand in India

The underlying reason for India’s aviation boom lies in its continuous economic growth. Rapid urbanisation and a substantial young population are leading to an increasingly dispersed workforce, creating an elevated demand for efficient air transport to Tier 2 and 3 cities. Rising disposable incomes and the expansion of e-commerce are also driving the need for passenger and cargo services to emerging urban centres and underserved areas. Non-metro cities crucial for regional connectivity, such as Ahmedabad, Vijayawada and Guwahati, have borne the fruits of this growth with massive infrastructural expansion in recent years, becoming some of the busiest airports in the country. There is significant potential for other Indian cities to follow suit, given the current air travel rate is just at 0.13 per capita.

Regional aviation in India: Trends & opportunities

In the last ten years, the number of airports in India has doubled to 157 and ambitious plans are underway to add 50 more in the next 5 years. With 60% of turboprop passengers flying through just 23 airports, the market is poised for substantial growth, particularly from smaller airports.

Indian skies are ruled by low cost carriers, commanding 75% of the market share. While there has been an emerging trend of dedicated regional airlines in the last decade, current pureplay regional operators account for only 2% of the overall market.

The accelerated expansion of regional routes and the development of new airports present significant opportunities within India’s aviation sector. This potential is further amplified by the fact that India accounts for nearly half of all global aircraft orders, which is a testament to its extraordinary potential.

According to IATA, India is projected to handle 520 million air passengers by 2037. This exponential growth requires major infrastructure development and strategic policy frameworks to ensure seamless operations. It also sets the stage for the creation of a robust airport ecosystem that fosters job creation and commercial activities, as well as the development of related sectors such as pilot training and aircraft manufacturing.

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The impact of UDAN: Policy and progress in Indian aviation

The Indian government’s long-term vision of establishing a robust and interconnected aviation network is founded on the democratisation of air travel. To achieve this, the proactive UDAN scheme (“Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik“ meaning “Let the common citizen fly”) was introduced in 2016, with a focus on boosting regional connectivity, stimulating economic growth and making air travel accessible to the wider population.  

By incentivising airlines to operate on less-travelled routes and developing new airport infrastructures in underserved regions, the government promotes regional growth. Improved connectivity drives economic activity in these smaller cities, boosting tourism in unexplored areas and making an impact on local businesses and trade. This, in turn, generates greater demand for air travel.

In nine short years, UDAN has transformed India's transportation infrastructure and contributed significantly to its economic and social development. With the government now proposing a 10-year extension of the scheme, the D328eco from regional aircraft manufacturer Deutsche Aircraft® is ideally positioned to support UDAN’s objectives of making air travel more accessible.

D328eco: The right platform for India's aviation ambitions

The success of initiatives like UDAN hinges on having the right aircraft for the job. The 40-seater D328eco aircraft is purpose-built for regional connectivity, with the right size, a low break-even factor and superior efficiency to enable it to serve a diverse range of operational demands. Built on the legacy of the Dornier 328, this next-generation turboprop offers operators a compelling combination of performance, economics and passenger comfort, making it an ideal for expanding operations and reaching a new generation of travellers in India.

With optimised fuel consumption for shorter flights and short takeoff and landing capabilities, the D328eco can address the key challenges of regional transport in India by opening up new routes to connect people and businesses.

A new generation aircraft with the potential to advance regional air travel in India

Engineered for superior performance and operational economics, the D328eco is truly a turboprop for the 21st century. Built with advanced composite technology, the aircraft is designed to be extremely lightweight. New Pratt & Whitney engines offer exceptional fuel efficiency, paving the way for sustainable air travel with the ability to run on both fossil-based fuels as well as 100% PtL-SAF. The integrated Garmin flight deck is a breakthrough for regional operators, maximising situational awareness and improving efficiency for more effective decision-making. This advanced avionics suite features large touch-based flight displays, performance-based navigation and enhanced synthetic vision, making it a technologically advanced solution for regional air travel.

Exceptional performance capabilities across India’s spectrum of landscapes

India is a vast country with extreme geological and environmental conditions. From the wet and hilly Vindhyas in the east and hot and arid deserts in the west, to the hot and dry Deccan plateau in the south to the icy and challenging mountainous Himalayan region in the north, the conditional demands to operate an aircraft varies significantly depending on where operators are based in India.

The D328eco’s wide range of performance capabilities include a 30,000ft service ceiling, 324 KTS cruise speed and 2,355 ft/min climb rate. Its maximum runway altitude of 3,657m and operating temperature range of -40°C to +50°C ensures exceptional hot and high performance, while offering unrivalled accessibility to challenging and remote airfields across the length and breadth of the country.

A mainline passenger experience for young, independent travellers

With 50% of its 1.458 billion population under 25 years old, India has a substantial young demographic that is eager to travel for business, education and leisure. The D328eco has a spacious modern layout offering elevated comfort and onboard amenities. A sleek modular cabin is equipped with ergonomic seats offering class-leading space, while large overhead bins ensure ample storage for carry-on bags. With a noise level of 78dB, the aircraft is the quietest of any turboprop. Passenger convenience is enhanced by power outlets at each seat, as well as a fully equipped galley where inflight drinks and snacks can be prepared.

The right range, size and economics to grow regional operations in line with the UDAN scheme

In 2024, 90% of all regional flights in India were between 100-300 NM, which is well within the 655 NM range of the D328eco with a full passenger load. Moreover, the 100-300 NM range falls exactly in line with the 800m STOL range at 70% load factor. With its exceptional break-even load factor of 55%, the D328eco platform enables operators to optimise operational ability and profitability in remote and challenging UDAN routes. In addition, the highly efficient PW127XT-S engines provide extended time-on-wing and reduced maintenance costs, further driving down operating costs. With enhanced regional connectivity as the primary goal of the UDAN scheme, the D328eco has the right size, efficiency and economics to help grow and sustain the operation of regional routes in India.

Building the D328eco: Empowering local manufacturing

Beyond its technical advantages, what clearly differentiates the D328eco from other regional platforms is the deep footprint it has in India as part of its manufacturing journey. Deutsche Aircraft is partnering with leading Indian companies to integrate local manufacturing expertise into the D328eco supply chain, actively supporting the aerospace sector.

One of the primary partners is Dynamatic Technologies, a prominent Indian engineering firm with advanced manufacturing capabilities, which will produce the rear fuselage of the D328eco. This is the first time an Indian manufacturer is supplying a major fuselage component for a civilian aircraft.

Deutsche Aircraft also has other key suppliers within the Indian aviation ecosystem, including Cyient, a global engineering and technology company that will design the DFM of the rear fuselage section and SASMOS HET, an Indian solutions provider for aerospace and defence, that will develop the specialised electrical wiring interconnection system.

By facilitating investment, encouraging innovation and developing world-class infrastructure, this aligns perfectly with the Indian government's “Make in India” initiative and aims to generate employment opportunities for its vast young workforce as it transforms India into a global manufacturing powerhouse.

Regional aviation is poised to play a crucial role in trade, tourism and development across India. As passenger numbers continue to soar, collaboration between the government, private sector and global partners like Deutsche Aircraft will be essential in unlocking opportunities within India’s rapidly expanding aviation market. By prioritising access to regional air travel through the UDAN scheme, the D328eco can support India in its quest to develop and establish its regional transportation ecosystem, while laying the foundation for years to come.

Contact Deutsche Aircraft to learn more about how the D328eco can revolutionise your regional aviation strategy.

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Hyderabad/Wessling, 20 January 2025 – Cyient, a global Intelligent Engineering services company, is proud to announce that it has expanded its strategic partnership with Deutsche Aircraft, a leading German regional aircraft manufacturer.

Cyient has been awarded a multi-year contract to manage the advanced technical documentation to support the product lifecycle of safety-critical aviation systems for the 40-seater regional turboprop the D328eco. The solution will support Deutsche Aircraft's global customer base with a modular and scalable architecture, personalized user experience, faster time to market, and worldwide access through any device. It will take advantage of Cyient AI products embedded in the solution.

The collaboration further strengthens Cyient’s position as a trusted partner in the Indian and European aerospace markets, while for Deutsche Aircraft, it marks a significant stride in the “Make in India” mission.

“We are excited to further strengthen our collaboration with Deutsche Aircraft by contributing to another critical milestone for the D328eco aircraft development,” said Krishna Bodanapu, Executive Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Cyient.

“This continued partnership is a testament to Cyient’s unwavering commitment to delivering innovative engineering solutions in the aerospace sector. Our deep expertise across Aircraft Systems, Software, Structure, Manufacturing, and Aftermarket Solutions positions us to play a global partner role in the success of the D328eco program. Together with Deutsche Aircraft, we are excited to drive forward advancements in sustainable aviation technology, shaping the future of aerospace innovation,” he added.

“We are thrilled to be working with Cyient, and the expansion of our partnership represents a strong commitment to India while supporting the "Make in India" initiative,” said Nico Neumann, Co-CEO of Deutsche Aircraft.

“This expanded collaboration with Cyient will enable Deutsche Aircraft to work with one of the best ER&D companies in the Aerospace industry and further enhance the development of the D328eco Program. Cyient's expertise and innovative approach perfectly align with Deutsche Aircraft's vision of delivering advanced service and product solutions,” he added.

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As Deutsche Aircraft® begins its fourth year as an OEM, we are making significant advancements in bringing the revolutionary D328eco® to market. Let’s reflect on our proudest achievements of 2024.

Meeting milestones

After years of dedicated research and development, we have started construction of the first D328eco test aircraft, TAC 1. Designed to connect remote communities and revolutionise regional air travel, the transition from digital renderings to our flight-ready aircraft began in June with the first meticulous fuselage cut, which will allow us to extend the aircraft to seat 40 passengers.

We also announced the start of construction of our state-of-the-art Final Assembly Line, a fully digital, carbon-neutral facility at Leipzig/Halle Airport where our next-gen aircraft will be built.

This year, the C-146A Wolfhound, a modified version of the Dornier 328, surpassed an impressive 200,000 operational flying hours, highlighting the aircraft’s versatility and strategic capabilities as it continues to undertake special operations missions for the US Air Force. We also showcased the multi-role versatility of the D328® in action, when special forces conducted a tactical parachute demonstration at our HQ.

The future of flight

In a significant breakthrough for sustainable aviation, the D328 UpLift research aircraft made its debut at ILA Berlin and took its first flight powered entirely by 100% zero-aromatics synthetic fuel. As part of the CLIM0ART flight campaign, the aircraft completed a series of five test flights to measure emissions and contrail formations, reinforcing our commitment to environmental responsibility and technological advancement.

Strategic partnerships & in-service support

In 2024, we secured over 95% of our key suppliers and have built a robust supply chain network, announcing collaborations with Akaer, Dynamatic Technologies, Cyient, Satys Cabin, SASMOS HET, TRIUMPH, Senior plc, Crane Aerospace & Electronics, Jaivel, Weerts Group and Honeywell.

Our Global Support Centre in Oberpfaffenhofen continues to service and maintain D328 aircraft in active operations, with the additional support of Airplane Painter, chosen as the repainting supplier for the in-service fleet.

Global expansion

To expand our digital and global reach, our team attended air shows and conferences in Europe, North America and Latin America. We also launched our Mandarin website and official WeChat account to facilitate engagement with customers in the Asia-Pacific region.

Our exclusive Customer Experience Centre at the Farnborough International Airshow in 2024 was a fantastic success, as it allowed visitors to get a sneak peek of the modern cabin and cockpit mock-ups of our D328eco.

Stronger team

We have strengthened our global sales team with the appointment of two new Sales Directors, Reinhard Schwaiger and Carlos Castro. Their extensive experience will be crucial in expanding our market reach and increasing sales of our D328eco. Furthermore, we achieved our HR objective for 2024, expanding our team to 553 aviation specialists, which positions us well for continued growth.

Transformation for success

To close out the year, we announced that Nico Neumann has been appointed as Co-CEO of Deutsche Aircraft. Nico has held various operational positions within Deutsche Aircraft and 328 Support Services over the past 18 years and will assume full CEO duties by mid-2025. Our current CEO, Dave Jackson, will remain as CEO of our parent entity, Deutsche Aircraft Group.

Looking ahead to 2025, we are gearing up for the highly-anticipated roll-out and first test flight of the D328eco aircraft and the completion of our Final Assembly Line.

We would like to express our gratitude to our extraordinary team for being the driving force behind our mission and contributing to our growth, every single day. To our partners, suppliers and investors, we wish you a joyful holiday season and a happy new year.

Get ready for the #TurbopropRevolution in 2025!

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Looking back, looking forward: A glimpse of our successful year

With the festive season in full swing, we are pleased to report another successful year at Deutsche Aircraft. In this edition of our newsletter, we celebrate our most significant achievements from the final quarter of 2024.

Transformation for success

To close out the year, we are excited to announce that Nico Neumann has been appointed Co-CEO of Deutsche Aircraft. This transitional role will guide him from his current position as COO to CEO. Nico will work alongside current CEO Dave Jackson during this transition, with the plan for Nico to take over as CEO by the end of Q2 2025. Dave will continue to support the team as CEO of the DA Group entity.

Building the future of regional aviation

We announced our collaboration with Weerts Group for the continued development and construction of our Final  Assembly Line (FAL) at Leipzig/Halle Airport. This project marks a significant milestone in the industrialisation of our D328eco aircraft. The carbon-neutral facility will operate in a fully digital environment, incorporating cutting-edge technology and energy-efficient manufacturing processes. In addition, automated systems will be implemented to support a greener production process and minimise our environmental footprint. The FAL is expected to be completed in Q4 2025.  ‍

Successful flight campaign using 100% synthetic zero-aromatics fuel

In a groundbreaking development for climate-friendly technology, the D328 UpLift research aircraft achieved a significant milestone in October with its first test flight powered entirely by 100% zero-aromatics synthetic fuel. This fuel, provided by our partner Sasol, is chemically identical to Power-to-Liquid (PtL) fuel, which has the potential to reduce CO2 emissions by up to 95%.

In November, we completed a series of five test flights in collaboration with Pratt & Whitney Canada, with a focus on measuring emissions and contrail formation. These flights were part of the CLIM0ART campaign, during which DLR’s Falcon 20E flew in formation with UpLift to collect data on emissions and contrails directly in flight. The insights gained from this campaign are expected to inform policy decisions and aid the expansion of Power-to-Liquid fuels to comply with the ReFuelEU Aviation mandate by 2030.

Key suppliers on board

As we near the completion of onboarding key suppliers for the D328eco, we announced that Honeywell will provide its Primus HF-1050 high-frequency (HF) radio system for our 40-seater turboprop. The HF-1050 is designed to deliver reliable voice communications, enhancing performance for operators worldwide.

Top-tier talent on board

We have strengthened our global sales team with the appointment of two new Sales Directors, Reinhard Schwaiger and Carlos Castro. Their extensive experience will be crucial in expanding our market reach and increasing sales of our D328eco. Furthermore, we achieved our HR objective for 2024, expanding our team to 553 aviation specialists, which positions us well for continued growth.

Ready to meet regional demands around the globe

During this quarter, #TeamDA attended important aviation conferences in Latin America, North America and the Asia Pacific. These included the ALTA AGM & Airline Leaders Forum in Nassau, the ATAC Conference in Vancouver and the China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition in Zhuhai. By participating in these events, our team gained valuable insights into the latest trends in regional connectivity, connected with partners and explored new opportunities for collaboration.

Gearing up for 2025

As we look ahead to 2025, we anticipate another year filled with milestones. After four years of dedication and development, we will bring our digital ideas to life with the roll-out of the D328eco test aircraft (TAC 1) in Q2 and the first test flight in Q4. In addition, we will inaugurate our Final Assembly Line at Leipzig/Halle Airport and showcase our next-generation D328eco with the full cabin and cockpit at the prestigious Paris Airshow.

We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude for your support this year. Stay tuned for the next chapter of our turboprop revolution!

Wishing you a joyful holiday season! May this time bring happiness and memorable moments with loved ones.

Best wishes,

Dave Jackson

CEO, Deutsche Aircraft

Wessling, 09 December 2024 — Deutsche Aircraft, a leading regional aircraft manufacturer, has announced the appointment of Nico Neumann as Co-CEO alongside current CEO, Dave Jackson. Neumann will guide Deutsche Aircraft through its next phase, delivering the D328eco^® aircraft to market by 2027. This role is part of a managed transition, with Neumann set to assume full CEO responsibilities for the Deutsche Aircraft-operated businesses in Munich and Leipzig by mid-2025. Dave Jackson will continue to support Neumann and the growing team, remaining as CEO of the parent company, Deutsche Aircraft Group.

Nico Neumann will assume the role of Co-CEO from 1 January 2025 and will relinquish his current position of Chief Operating Officer. Over the past 18 years, Neumann has held various operational positions within the Deutsche Aircraft and 328 Support Services, including Vice President of Operations and Programmes. In this capacity, he was responsible for developing the aircraft production programme and lead the supply chain team, as well as being a key point of contact with the German government. He was also part of the core team that identified and selected the location for the Final Assembly Line for the D328eco in Leipzig.

Neumann established a strong foundation in the aviation sector as a B2 certified engineer at 328 Support Services. He subsequently advanced to leadership roles, including Head of Avionics & Electric as well as Director of Production & Maintenance, where he successfully supervised numerous VIP modifications and maintenance programs for the global Dornier 328 fleet.

Dave Jackson has for over 18 years been CEO and Managing Director of 328SSG/Deutsche Aircraft. His leadership since 2006 has ensured the business turnaround of the company and continuous and safe operation of the worldwide Dornier 328 fleet, maintaining the company’s position as a leading regional aircraft OEM. Prior to his role at Deutsche Aircraft, he had over 20 years’ experience in the automotive and aviation sectors, specializing in business turnarounds, restructuring and development, including acquisitions, as well as sales, service, and logistics, in airframe and engine maintenance, component manufacturing, as well as regional airline ownership.

During this transition, Nico will work closely with newly appointed COO, Olaf Lawrenz, to ensure the smooth handover of responsibilities. Olaf brings a wealth of experience from companies like Airbus and Asco Industries, where he was VP Supply Chain, leading the Final Assembly Lines, Flight lines and Delivery Centres for the Airbus A320 in Hamburg. His expertise will be crucial in driving Deutsche Aircraft’s continued growth and success.

“This is an exciting time for Deutsche Aircraft,” said Dave Jackson, CEO of Deutsche Aircraft. “I am confident that with Nico’s leadership, experience and commitment to our values, the team will continue to reach new heights on our journey, towards aircraft entry into service.”

“I am thrilled to step into the role of Co-CEO and steer Deutsche Aircraft through this next phase of industrialization as we build towards our future.  I look forward to the collaboration with Olaf and the entire team”, said Nico Neumann, Co-CEO of Deutsche Aircraft.

Deutsche Aircraft remains committed to developing the next-generation turboprop aircraft, the D328eco, with its first flight scheduled for Q4 2025. The construction of the FAL at Leipzig/Halle Airport is well underway and scheduled to become operational around the same time.

Wessling/London, 21 November 2024 – Honeywell (NASDAQ: HON) has been selected by Deutsche Aircraft, a German aircraft manufacturer, to supply its Primus HF-1050 high-frequency (HF) radio system for the recently debuted 40-seater D328eco turboprop. The HF-1050 is designed to deliver global voice communications, leveraging its unique features to enhance reliability and performance for operators worldwide. The selection of the HF-1050 supports Honeywell’s alignment of its portfolio to three compelling megatrends: automation, the future of aviation and energy transition.

As a high-frequency system, the HF-1050 enables seamless communication over vast distances with built-in technology that reduces background noise, ensuring clearer transmissions between pilots and air traffic controllers.

“We are delighted to continue our partnership with Deutsche Aircraft and support the D328eco program,” said Flavio Michio Osanai, EMEAI Vice President, Business & General Aviation Sales at Honeywell Aerospace Technologies. “Deutsche Aircraft’s selection of the HF-1050 underscores our commitment to the future of aviation and reinforces our focus on delivering reliable, cutting-edge avionics solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers and their passengers.”

Honeywell avionics are already widely deployed on in-service D328® aircraft such as the Dornier 328-100 and Dornier 328-300. The selection of the HF-1050 builds on Honeywell’s longstanding relationship with Deutsche Aircraft and highlights its continued support for the Dornier fleet.

“We are pleased to partner with Honeywell to bring this proven communication technology to the D328eco,” said Patricia Ferrari, Vice President of Supply Chain at Deutsche Aircraft. “The HF-1050 system will offer operators a modernised aircraft that is equipped with reliable, long-range communication capabilities that will contribute to more efficient flights across the globe.”

Deutsche Aircraft plans to manufacture up to 48 D328eco aircraft per year at its state-of-the-art Final Assembly Line at Leipzig/Halle Airport. The D328eco aims to revolutionise regional aviation with an environmentally friendly and cost-effective platform. With its advanced technologies and sustainable design, the D328eco offers operators enhanced fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, contributing to a greener future for the aviation industry.

Wessling, 11 November 2024 – Deutsche Aircraft, a German aircraft manufacturer, is pleased to announce the appointment of Reinhard Schwaiger and Carlos Castro as the new Sales Directors for their global sales team. Reinhard and Carlos will play a crucial role in implementing the global sales strategy for the 40-seater D328eco^® regional turboprop aircraft in key markets worldwide.

Industry know-how and international expertise

Reinhard Schwaiger brings a wealth of experience to his new role at Deutsche Aircraft. He has spent the past 12 years working in international sales and key account management, responsible for aircraft sales, services and simulators at Diamond Aircraft Industries GmbH in Austria and recently serving as Sales Director at Blackshape S.p.A. in Italy.

Reinhard’s expertise lies in working with institutional clients, including government contracts and military operators across Africa, the Middle East, Europe and Asia. He has successfully managed projects for private clients and built strong industry networks. Fluent in English, German and Italian. Reinhard's international experience has given him a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and the value of collaboration.

Carlos Castro brings over 15 years of experience in the aerospace sector to his new role as Sales Director at Deutsche Aircraft. Throughout his career, Carlos has held technical consultancy roles, served as director of customer services, and worked as a business development manager in aerospace and defence. Carlos is currently the coordinator of the DGLR-Virtual International Group, a PMI-certified project manager and a member of AIAA.

Carlos was born in Brazil and raised in Ecuador. He is fluent in English, German Spanish, and Portuguese. With his multilingual work experience across Europe, the Middle East, and both North and South America, Carlos has an in-depth knowledge of the international aviation market.

A global team making a global impact

Anastasija Visnakova, VP Sales & Marketing at Deutsche Aircraft, is enthusiastic about these seasoned professionals joining the sales team. “The addition of Reinhard and Carlos to our exciting sales team is a testament to Deutsche Aircraft’s commitment to expanding its global presence and strengthening sales efforts within key markets. With their extensive knowledge and technical expertise, both Reinhard and Carlos will be instrumental in positioning our D328eco as a premier solution for regional airlines and operators around the world.”

Deutsche Aircraft is thrilled to welcome Reinhard and Carlos to the team. Their combined experience will be invaluable in accelerating market reach and driving sales of the D328eco.

Zhuhai, 07 November 2024 – German regional aircraft manufacturer, Deutsche Aircraft, is set to revolutionise regional air connectivity in Western China with the introduction of its 40-seater turboprop, the D328eco. This strategic move aligns with regional and national policies that promote the development of air transportation to meet the growing demand.

The D328eco offers a promising solution for establishing aerial connections among major hubs in the western part of China, such as Lanzhou, Urumqi and Kunming. By linking cities throughout this region, this innovative aircraft will support livelihoods, promote economic development and address the needs of remote communities. Its versatile capabilities allow it to serve as a cargo freighter,  air ambulance or firefighting aircraft, enabling it to contribute significantly beyond a regional commuter. Ultimately, the D328eco will stimulate a dynamic market for general aviation and play a vital role for both operators and communities.

"Deutsche Aircraft aims to support Western China's infrastructure goals, including integration with the Belt and Road Initiative, as Western China plays an integral role in being a trade gateway to the West," remarked Ryan Ding, Regional Sales Director, Greater China at Deutsche Aircraft. "The D328eco is poised to become a vital part of the regional growth and sustainable development in Western and greater China."

Compared to other aircraft operating in Western China, including transportation and general aviation aircraft, the D328eco offers a more efficient average cost per seat. With its 40-seat capacity, this regional turboprop guarantees a better loading factor compared to narrow-body and regional jet aircraft. This advantage significantly reduces the subsidy pressure from local governments, ensuring a sustainable and cost-effective solution for regional air transportation.

Western China faces significant challenges in developing its transportation network, such as limited accessibility to land transportation, high investment costs, extended travel times and optimising inefficient long-distance freight transport for goods outside Western China. To overcome these obstacles, future development should focus on improving infrastructure, stimulating the aviation economy and enhancing air transportation networks to be more efficient.

Deutsche Aircraft's commitment to Western China goes beyond providing advanced aircraft solutions. By introducing the D328eco, the manufacturer aims to be part of the development of essential aviation services and local networks, strengthening regional connectivity and aligning with initiatives aimed at improving aviation infrastructure.

Connect with Ryan Ding at the 2024 China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition from 12-17 November to discuss the exceptional performance, payload and potential of our new D328eco.

Vancouver, 04 November 2024 - Deutsche Aircraft, and Pratt & Whitney Canada, announce the conclusion of a series of five emission and contrail measurement flights on a D328 UpLift research aircraft using a fully synthetic Fischer-Tropsch fuel, preparing for the use of future sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) produced using Power-to-Liquid (PtL) technology. This significant achievement marks a new milestone in the 40 years of collaboration between the two companies and helps pave the way to ensuring that Deutsche Aircraft’s next generation 40-seater D328eco powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127XT-S engines will be ready to operate with future specifications for 100% SAF from the aircraft’s Entry into Service (EIS) in 2027. Pratt & Whitney is an RTX business (NYSE: RTX).

The test flight on this synthetic fuel was conducted during the UpLift-CLIM0ART project in collaboration with the German Aerospace Center (DLR), and demonstrates the ability of the D328 UpLift, powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada’s PW119B engines, to deliver the same performance and efficiency as when utilizing conventional kerosene fuel. Due to having the exact same chemical and technical properties, Fischer-Tropsch synthetic paraffinic kerosene (FT-SPK) served as a proxy for future PtL SAF, which will be produced using water, CO2, and renewable energy in the future. PtL is expected to be a key production pathway to meet future demand for SAF and help meet ICAO’s Long Term Ambitious Goal of net-zero CO2 emission by 2050, as well as reduce non-CO2 emissions due to enabling low to zero aromatic and sulfur content.

“This test flight is a testament to our shared commitment to enabling more sustainable aviation through the development of more efficient aircraft and enabling alternative fuels,” said Dave Jackson, CEO of Deutsche Aircraft. “To achieve our industry goals, we must enhance collaboration in research and technology while securing strong support from government and energy providers to scale up Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and Power-to-Liquid (PtL) production.

"The successful test flight of the D328 UpLift is a major achievement towards our goal of ensuring that the D328eco is ready to operate with future 100% SAF specifications from the EIS stage,” said Nico Neumann, COO of Deutsche Aircraft. “This new capability, along with the overall performance and efficiency of the D328eco and its PW127XT-S engines, will establish new benchmarks in regional aviation. Additionally, the insights gained from D328 UpLift’s test flights using synthetic fuel without aromatics will support the overall effort to reduce the environmental footprint of the aviation industry."

"The development of the PW127XT-S for the next generation Deutsche Aircraft D328eco reflects our shared goal of changing the standards of efficiency and sustainability in the aviation industry, and continues our 40-year-long collaborative relationship,” said Maria Della Posta, president of Pratt & Whitney Canada. “Our PW127XT engine series delivers unrivalled performance in terms of fuel burn, emissions, and operating economics, and will further drive sustainability by operating with more sustainable aviation fuels, including future specifications for 100% SAF."

The PW127XT is the most advanced member of Pratt & Whitney Canada’s PW100 engine series, which has powered regional turboprop aircraft for forty years and accumulated more than 220 million flight hours. Launched in 2021, PW127XT engines offers over 3% better fuel efficiency, 40% improved time on and wing, and 20% reduced maintenance costs. All Pratt & Whitney Canada engines are certified to operate with SAF blended up to 50% with conventional Jet A/A1 kerosene fuel and the company is actively supporting industry efforts to develop future specifications for 100% SAF.

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Vancouver, 29 October 2024 – German aircraft manufacturer Deutsche Aircraft will attend the 2024 Air Transport Association of Canada (ATAC) Conference, held in Vancouver from 5–7 November. This annual event brings together aviation professionals to discuss the future of air travel, with a focus on solutions for regional connectivity across Canada.

During the conference, Deutsche Aircraft will promote the 40-seater D328eco turboprop. The outstanding operational capabilities and economics of this next-generation aircraft make it ideal for connecting smaller airports to larger cities, enabling it to feed the main hubs of Air Canada and WestJet from other regional centres. In addition, its efficiency and range allows it to reliably serve the remote regions of British Columbia, Quebec and the Northwest Territories.

With its short takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities, a 30,000ft ceiling, and the ability to operate on unpaved runways, the D328eco is suited to handle extreme weather conditions and challenging terrain. Its versatile design allows for quick conversions between passenger, cargo, medical evacuation, and firefighting configurations, making it a valuable asset for operators across Canada.

Furthermore, the D328eco also aligns with Canada’s ambitious sustainability goals. significantly reducing the carbon footprint of regional air travel through fuel-efficient engines that are compatible with Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).

The Deutsche Aircraft team invites attendees to visit booth #310 during the ATAC Conference. Sales Director, Nils Heuer, will be available for interviews during the event to discuss how the D328eco can help advance connectivity and boost economic development in Canada.

It is with profound sadness that we share the unexpected passing of Ernie Smith, co-owner and General Manager of Straight Flight, part of our corporate family as a subsidiary of Sierra Nevada Corporation. Straight Flight was co-founded by Ernie over 35 years ago. In 2016 Straight Flight became Deutsche Aircraft GmbH’s U.S.-based authorized service centre and is successfully supporting the Dornier 328 fleet in the Americas, ever since. As a certified A&P Technician since 1981 and an active FAA Designated Airworthiness Representative (DAR), Ernie played a pivotal role in ensuring the quality and safety of countless aircraft, including the Dornier 328.

Ernie's leadership was defined not only by his technical expertise but by his deep care for the people who ran the business day to day. He took immense pride in his team’s capabilities, fiercely protecting and supporting them with unwavering loyalty and dedication. His tireless energy and passion for the industry and the people around him will be greatly missed by his team, as well as by whom he worked with for years at Deutsche Aircraft. Ernie’s legacy will continue to inspire all of us who were fortunate enough to know and work alongside him.

Nassau, 21 October 2024 – German aircraft manufacturer, Deutsche Aircraft, will attend this year’s ALTA AGM & Airline Leaders Forum in Nassau, Bahamas to share further insights about the new D328eco. This commercial aviation conference is a leading forum for industry leaders and government representatives to discuss current challenges and promising solutions for aviation in Latin America.

Regional aviation in South America and the Caribbean is expanding considerably, fuelled by robust GDP growth, a significant increase in tourism activity and the emerging middle class. This has created a crucial need for a reliable and efficient regional air transportation solution that can connect remote areas across diverse geographical landscapes.

The D328eco is uniquely positioned to meet all these requirements with its 40-seat capacity, outstanding operational efficiency and flexible operational configuration. This next-generation turboprop is the right aircraft to fulfil the demands of the regional aviation market, allowing operators to establish new routes and support the continued expansion of airports and infrastructure.

The high-performing solution for regional aviation in Latin America

Regional aviation plays a pivotal role in boosting tourism, stimulating local economies and strengthening regional development. Tourism is one of the key markets in the region, with more than 117 million international tourists visiting Latin America in 2023 (a 12% increase from 2022). To maximise on this potential, regional airlines need to offer efficient and accessible transportation services, expand their network connectivity and prioritise passenger experience.

The turboprop from Deutsche Aircraft sets the bar for performance and efficiency in its class, making it a perfect match for this developing regional market. With a nominal range of 600NM, a high service ceiling of 30,000ft, a top speed of 324KTS and a climb rate of 2,355ft, the D328eco can handle the wide-ranging landscapes across this continent. Combined with its unpaved runway and 800m STOL capabilities, it is ideal for serving smaller, remote airports across the region.

The D328eco has elevated the concept of comfort with its contemporary cabin layout, which includes a spacious stand-up aisle. Passengers will enjoy plenty of room, including generous overhead bins for their belongings. Its modular galley can be tailored for both hot and cold service, ensuring that all passenger requirements are satisfied.

A path to profitability

Regional aviation in Latin America and Caribbean is crucial for connecting remote areas and providing essential transportation services. Served by numerous smaller carriers, the 30–50-seater aircraft market presents significant opportunities for growth and profitability.

The D328eco from Deutsche Aircraft sets new standards for operating economics, offering up to 50% improvement in operating costs compared to similar sized aircraft.

Versatility for any mission

The aircraft’s versatile payload capacity and ability to operate in extreme hot-and-high conditions and high -altitude runways, make it ideal for navigating the mountainous terrain and vast territories of Latin America under the toughest conditions.

Multi-role aircraft plays a vital role in addressing the diverse challenges faced by countries in the region. The adaptability and robustness of the D328eco allows it to be modified for different missions as required, offering remarkable operational flexibility and the capacity to adapt to a variety of special mission requirements, from emergency response and humanitarian aid to cargo, border patrol and ISR missions.

Talk to our team at the ATLA AGM

Curious about this state-of-the-art turboprop? Nils Heuer, Sales Director at Deutsche Aircraft, will be available to connect with potential operators and discuss how the D328eco represents the future of regional air travel in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Wessling, 16 October 2024 – German aircraft manufacturer Deutsche Aircraft has successfully operated the first-ever test flight using 100% synthetic zero aromatics fuel in both engines of the D328® UpLift flying testbed. This is the first time a CS-25 aircraft has operated solely on a fuel that is chemically identical to Power-to-Liquid fuel (PtL). The flight, which was conducted at Oberpfaffenhofen Airport on 9 October 2024, is the starting point of the CLIM0ART inflight emission measurement campaign, which will investigate the benefits of using 100% zero aromatics PtL to reduce climate impact. PtL can be produced using sustainable CO2, renewable energy and water in the future, offering the potential to reduce the CO2 balance by up to 95% as well as decreasing non-CO2 effects.

The current CLIM0ART measurement campaign with the D328® UpLift platform is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) through the LuFo-Klima Aviation Research Programme. The project is led by the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and Deutsche Aircraft, with Sasol as the contributing fuel partner. During this flight campaign, the D328® UpLift aircraft flies in formation with DLR's Falcon 20E research aircraft, which is equipped with probes to measure the emissions from zero aromatics synthetic fuel and to probe the properties of ice crystals in condensation trails. The campaign also marks the first time that the emissions of a CS-25 turboprop aircraft are measured in flight with fully synthetic fuels. The in-flight emission measurements were preceded by extensive emission measurements of the D328® turboprop aircraft on the ground, powered by the same zero-aromatics PtL-proxy fuel.

The synthetic fuel is supplied by Sasol, a leading South African chemical company, that has mastered the Fischer-Tropsch process on an industrial scale. While the currently used fuel is not yet produced from sustainable feedstock (hence being called “PtL-proxy”), Power-to-Liquid fuels, or e-kerosene, have the potential to facilitate aviation's transition to climate neutrality in the long term, as their production is not constrained by feedstock scarcity. In addition to reducing the CO2 footprint, the absence of aromatics can significantly reduce the warming effect of contrails and will improve the air quality at airports.

Nico Neumann, Chief Operations Officer at Deutsche Aircraft, remarks: “The CLIM0ART project is another piece of the puzzle in our holistic approach to optimising the environmental impact of our aircraft, with the objective of implementing the latest climate science in our D328eco™, which is currently under development. This achievement not only underscores the potential of synthetic fuels but also highlights the significance of the collaboration between industry and research institutions and the support from the German government in driving meaningful change and contributing to the global aviation value chain.”

Regina Pouzolz, Director Sustainable Flight at Deutsche Aircraft, adds: “We want the D328eco to be compatible with zero aromatics PtL produced from renewable and sustainable resources, in addition to any other fuel choice of our customers around the world. I would like to thank the DLR and our fantastic team for their efforts and spirit of collaboration to make this flight happen.

“Sustainable fuels will play an important role in climate-friendly aviation in the future, especially electricity-based fuels for widespread production,” explains Dr. Markus Fischer, DLR Executive Board Member for Aeronautics. “I am therefore particularly pleased that our new D328 UpLift research aircraft is the first in the world to fly with such a synthetic aromatics-free fuel in its turboprop engines on its research campaign premiere. With our 'flying laboratory' Falcon 20E, we are contributing DLR's outstanding expertise in measuring emissions and the resulting contrails directly in flight.”

The D328® UpLift Flying Testbed will be pivotal in the application of new, climate-friendly systems, fuel and propulsion technologies. It is predicted that PtL production volumes will have to be increased in order to meet the mandate of the ReFuelEU Aviation regulation obliging airlines to uplift a minimum share of e-kerosene by 2030. The scientific findings of this campaign will inform policy and build momentum to support the required ramp-up of Power-to-Liquid fuels.

As the D328® Uplift continues to soar, Deutsche Aircraft remains committed to playing a pivotal role in innovation, setting an example for the aviation industry to achieve a future that is more sustainable and environmentally conscious.

The vast geographic expanse of North America has long been a catalyst for the development of regional aviation. As pioneers of the hub-and-spoke system that transformed regional air travel, commuter airlines in the United States used smaller aircraft as feeders to connect remote communities to larger, central airports that served as hubs within a network of routes. This approach enabled operators to deploy the right-sized aircraft that were more efficient and profitable, while expanding services to underserved regions, which fostered economic growth and strengthened nationwide connectivity.

While these routes have historically been dominated by jet aircraft, the regional aviation market is undergoing a significant shift. The need for low-emission, fuel-efficient solutions has become paramount, alongside the growing demand to replace ageing fleets. The D328eco turboprop from Deutsche Aircraft has emerged as a compelling solution in North America.

How has regional aviation changed in the past 25 years?

In the late 1990s, the regional aviation landscape looked very different. Eight Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) were actively producing 13 different aircraft types that accommodated 19 to 78 passengers, which are gradually being phased out and consolidated for newer and better aircraft platforms.

In North America, the fleet size of regional jets and turboprops with 19 to 50 seats has declined in the past 12 years. While this trend may seem unfavourable, it is important to recognise that the fleet reduction has primarily been in the regional jet segment. Given their high operational cost, earlier retirement age and increasing sustainability concerns, coupled with potential regulatory modifications for part 135 operations, there is a compelling case to replace jet aircraft with more cost-effective and efficient turboprops. TPs currently make up more than half of the overall regional fleet and operators have realised the greater resilience of the turboprop segment.

According to a report by The Air Current, North America (led by Canada) had the highest number of turboprop ASKs before the COVID-19 pandemic. This indicates a strong preference for turboprop aircraft for shorter, more frequent regional routes.

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The same report indicates that a large proportion of 19- to 50-seater turboprops are more than 22 years old, suggesting they are approaching the end of their service life and due for replacement in the coming decade.

The D328eco: The Answer to the Industry’s Problems

Given these uncertain times for regional air travel, especially for jets, the D328eco can be a game-changer to reinvigorate the glory of the regional market in North America. This modern, efficient and profitable platform offers key features that make it an ideal fit.

The turboprop of the 21st century

Deutsche Aircraft is set to revolutionise the turboprop experience by introducing the D328eco. Key features include:

• Lightweight design made of advanced composites;

• Pratt and Whitney PW127XT-S engine which offers 40% longer time-on-wing, 20% reduction in maintenance costs and a 3% reduction in SFC compared with previous generation platforms;

• Garmin® Companion flight deck that rivals the comfort and convenience of a business aircraft while maximising situational awareness and improving efficiency with single lever engine control, large touch-based flight displays, Performance Based Navigation (PBN), Enhanced Synthetic Vision (SVT) and electronic charts and documents.

The right range for any regional sector

Regional air travel serves as the essential spokes in the hub-and-spoke model that is predominantly used in the North American market. This network is defined by frequent, short-haul connections from Tier 2 and 3 regions to major hubs, where larger carriers operate.

The average trip length for regional carriers has been gradually increasing over the years and is currently around 450NM.

The D328eco’s nominal range of 600NM falls well in line with the requirements of the market. Its low maintenance cost and higher operational efficiency offers regional airlines the perfect solution that will carry on their legacy.

Superior operational efficiency & accessibility

The exceptional operational capabilities of the D328eco, including a 30,000ft service ceiling, a maximum cruise speed of 324 KTS and a climb rate of 2,355 ft/min (MTOW-ISA-SL) enable it to achieve outstanding block time across stage lengths. These metrics are superior to similar-sized turboprops on the market and rival the capabilities of similar-sized regional jets.

As a result, there is currently a tremendous potential in the market for the replacement of not just aging in-service regional turboprops but also regional jets, given that the North American region is the largest operator.

The platform offers a wide operating temperature range, from -104° F to +122° F, making it suitable for the varied landscapes across the North American continent. The D328eco also boasts exceptional performance in icing conditions (climb rate 1,848ft/min) with the ability to land and take-off from icy and unpaved runways. This is crucial for remote regions of Canada that have challenging conditions and low demand. Moreover, with the sector leading low break-even factor and 2,625ft STOL capabilities, it can also help carriers seeking to open new, remote routes while maintaining profitability, even in markets with low demand.

Exceptional fuel economics

North America is by far the biggest user of regional jets in the world, accounting for 57% of all regional jet frequencies in 2022. Western Europe comes in second at 14.7%, which shows the jet-driven focus of the North American market.

Although regional jets are relatively younger than turboprops, there has been significant advancements in the efficiency and engine technology of modern turboprops in the last ten years. With rising fuel costs (which represent a significant 30% of operating costs for an aircraft) and a tectonic shift in the industry’s focus towards sustainability (turboprops are considered to be 10-30% more fuel efficient than a similar-sized jet aircraft), the D328eco is a prudent solution that will help operators save on fuel costs and enable them to meet sustainability targets while offering the performance metrics and the operational comfort of a regional jet.

On average, our performance analysis results indicate a 60% reduction in block fuel per trip and a 25% reduction in block fuel/per passenger and only a 15% increase in block time compared to a similar-sized regional jet across stage lengths (up to 500NM).

A mainline passenger experience that meets the unique demands of regional operations

Stylish and sleek with minimum parts for low maintenance, the 40-seater cabin of the D328eco will be fitted with ergonomic, lightweight seats with a 30” pitch in a 2:1 configuration to offer class-leading space. Large overhead bins can fit three standard carry-on bags each to ensure ample storage. Connectivity solutions and power outlets enhance passenger convenience. With a noise level of 78 dB, the cabin is the quietest of any turboprop and competitive with jets. The cabin also features a modern, fully equipped galley and an accessible lavatory.

The cabin exterior features a forward passenger door that is jet-bridge compatible. This not only enhances passenger convenience but also helps operators in the efficient servicing of the aircraft, enabling a turnaround time of 20 minutes.

Unmatched operational versatility and flexibility

The outstanding operational flexibility of the D328eco enables it to handle the most challenging environments, with exceptional STOL performance for steep approaches and unpaved runway operations. Its modular cabin layout has a quick conversion capability and the aircraft is equipped with a large In-Flight Air Operable Door and gravel kit, allowing a diverse range of missions from any airfield.

In fact, the C-146A “Wolfhound”, a multi-role version of the in-service D328® commuter turboprop, has been an integral part of the U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command since 2011. With 200,000 operational flight hours logged, this multi-mission workhorse has completed critical missions around the world, proving its exceptional versatility and strategic capabilities.

With North America making up 25% of the special mission aircraft market and Deutsche Aircraft backed by SNC Corp, a major player in special mission systems integration in the North American market, the multi-role variant of the D328eco will serve as an ideal platform for special missions such as military transport, C4ISR, and maritime and border patrol in the region

The aircraft for the present and the future

Leading the charge towards a truly sustainable future, the D328eco is fully compatible with Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). SAF is a cleaner and more practical alternative to conventional Jet-A1 fuel and requires minimal changes to the existing infrastructure. As SAF production ramps up, the D328eco is ready to embrace its full potential. Deutsche Aircraft also have an ongoing research partnership with the German Aerospace Center (DLR) to test alternative propulsion technologies such as hybrid hydrogen-based propulsion and fuel cells with the D328® turboprop as the test bed, ensuring that the OEM remains at the forefront of aviation advancements.

The next level in regional aviation in North America will begin in 2027

With EIS scheduled for 2027, the innovative D328eco is poised to meet the evolving needs of regional air travel in North America. The platform has the right combination of performance, operational capabilities and cost-effectiveness, making it the ideal replacement for aging turboprops on the market. With its unmatched flight deck, speed, climb rate and superior altitude capabilities, the D328eco will match the performance of regional jets that have historically dominated the North American market and is ready to move the industry forward with its SAF compatibility.

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Wessling, 01 October 2024 – Deutsche Aircraft, a leading manufacturer of regional aircraft, has announced a partnership with Weerts Group, a pan-European logistics and real estate infrastructure developer, for the construction of its state-of-the-art Final Assembly Line (FAL) for the D328eco aircraft. This collaboration is a significant achievement in the development of the D328eco programme and reinforces Deutsche Aircraft's commitment to innovation and sustainability.

The OEM broke ground for the Final Assembly Line at Leipzig/Halle Airport in May 2023. Frame conditions have since been laid and the official start of construction was announced during ILA 2024 in June. In the meantime, the ground field side has been completed and handed over. The FAL is set to become operational in the fourth quarter of 2025, as Weerts Group takes over the construction. With a total area of 60,500 square meters, the facility will contain the FAL, Flight Readiness Hangar, Logistics Centre, and Administration Building, creating a comprehensive infrastructure to support the production of the D328eco.

The new Final Assembly Line will incorporate cutting-edge technologies and processes, ensuring a 100% digital and paperless production environment. Automated and driverless transport systems will streamline operations, while automated parts and tool storage will enhance efficiency. The production line will be tailored specifically to the D328eco, optimising process flows, and utilising energy-efficient battery powered tools.

One of the key advantages of the Final Assembly Line will be its use of 3D models in production, and the possibility of integrating augmented reality technology. This innovative approach will enhance productivity and precision, further solidifying Deutsche Aircraft’s position as a leader in the aviation industry.

In addition to its advanced technological capabilities, the Final Assembly Line will prioritise sustainability and customer experience. The newly designed manufacturing tools, including tools for the fuselage, will be energy-efficient, contributing to a greener production process. The open and friendly factory will allow customers to witness the assembly of the aircraft firsthand, fostering transparency and trust.

The construction of the Final Assembly Line will create employment opportunities for 250-350 individuals to further boost the local economy in the Leipzig region. With a production capacity of forty-eight D328eco aircraft annually, Deutsche Aircraft aims to meet the growing demand for regional aircraft while maintaining the highest standards of quality.

Nico Neumann, COO of Deutsche Aircraft, highlighted the importance of this collaboration, stating “This partnership with Weerts Group signifies an important milestone in the industrialisation of the D328eco. Weerts Group brings a strong portfolio of experience as we construct the Final Assembly Line for Deutsche Aircraft. This is testament to our dedication to the success of the D328eco programme and its pivotal role in the aviation value chain in Europe and around the world.”

Yves Weerts, CEO and President of Weerts Group, remarked, “This partnership between Deutsche Aircraft, Leipzig Airport and our Group is a milestone in our development in Germany. Weerts Group is charmed by the confidence Deutsche Aircraft and Sierra Nevada Corporation have shown during negotiations and we are very happy to contribute to the realisation of this project. This collaboration is an absolute priority for our company, with Leipzig as an important anchor point to further develop our business in the German market.”  

Götz Ahmelmann, CEO of Mitteldeutsche Flughafen AG, added,“Leipzig/Halle Airport is a byword for successfully attracting businesses and innovation. The production of an environmentally friendly aircraft such as the D328eco perfectly matches our portfolio. The establishment of this production line marks a groundbreaking chapter for sustainable aviation, our airport, and the entire region.”

Deutsche Aircraft is excited to embark on this new chapter in its journey towards revolutionising regional aviation. The collaboration with Weerts Group will enable the company to deliver on its promise of a modern, efficient, and sustainable Final Assembly Line for the D328eco. With its advanced technologies, optimised processes and a commitment to customer satisfaction, Deutsche Aircraft is poised to shape the future of regional air travel.

A new era of aviation is on the horizon. As we come to the close of Q3, we’re pleased to share the successes we’ve celebrated this quarter, particularly during the 2024 Farnborough International Airshow. Now take look at the latest developments from our journey during this quarter:

Showcasing the Advanced Capabilities of the D328®: In July, we hosted the Paradays International Parachute Event at our headquarters at Oberpfaffenhofen Airport. This gathering of elite special operations forces from more than 12 nations featured parachute jumps from the D328® aircraft, highlighting its versatility as a Special Mission Aircraft. The D328® is equipped with an EASA-approved In-Flight Operable Door (IFOD), enabling efficient aerial delivery, particularly for humanitarian aid missions.

We also celebrated together with Sierra Nevada Corporation the significant achievement in the C-146A/D328® programme as fleet reaches 200,000 operational flight hours. The C-146A, known as the “Wolfhound,” by the U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC). D328® turboprop aircraft has surpassed 200,000 operational flying hours, proving itself instrumental in meeting global mobility requirements.‍

Major Milestones Celebrated at Farnborough International Airshow 2024: We celebrated a key development milestone in the programme with the initiation of the D328eco™ test aircraft TAC 1 fuselage cut. This has set the stage for the maiden flight of TAC 1. Our exclusive Chalet 328, a number synonymous with our brand, offered visitors a unique opportunity to explore the state-of-the-art cabin and cockpit mock-ups as well a virtual experience of our revolutionary turboprop in the customer experience centre.

With over 95% of suppliers onboard, we continue to welcome new  suppliers to further strengthen the D328eco programme’s robust supply chain  network. These include SASMOS HET for  the design, development and fabrication of the Electrical Wiring  Interconnection System (EWIS), Triumph for the  precooler and Senior plc for  the design, development and manufacturing of the Bleed Air System and the  Engine Build Up (EBU) system. CRANE has been  selected for the Proximity Sensing System and Jaivel has been  chosen to develop the design and manufacturing standards and specifications.

Team Development: Our team of dedicated aviation experts continues to be the driving force behind our mission. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment with a focus on sustainability, collaboration, and excellence, actively supporting the top talent in the industry and inspiring future leaders in aerospace.

During this quarter we saw positive developments for the D328eco and are steadily advancing towards our goal of bringing this revolutionary aircraft to market. We will continue to provide updates as we achieve key milestones.

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Best wishes,

Dave Jackson

CEO, Deutsche Aircraft

Washington, D.C., 24 September 2024 – Deutsche Aircraft, a leading German aircraft manufacturer, is proud to introduce its new D328eco turboprop, designed to revolutionise regional aviation in North America. Building upon the success of the D328® platform, the D328eco is poised to reinvigorate regional air travel by setting a new standard for performance and passenger comfort within the rapidly evolving aviation landscape.

As a key player in shaping regional air travel, the United States, along with the rest of North America, has been at the forefront of innovation since pioneering the model for regional air travel in the mid-20th century. In this spirit of progress, Deutsche Aircraft is unveiling the D328eco turboprop, which represents a paradigm shift in sustainable and efficient air travel technology.

With its state-of-the-art design and eco-friendly features, the D328eco offers a compelling alternative to aging aircraft in the regional US market, prioritising efficiency, environmental responsibility and technological advancements.

The revolutionary Garmin® Companion™ flight deck is ready for FAA NextGen and will enhance situational awareness, reduce pilot workload and improve overall reliability through reduced maintenance costs. In another first for the regional segment, the D328eco is equipped with a forward door that is jet-bridge compatible and a cabin that offers a mainline passenger experience, proving itself as a turboprop of the 21st century that can cater to the demands and expectations of the jet-driven North American market.

Boasting a lightweight design made of advanced composites and the latest Pratt & Whitney PW127XT-S engines offering 40% longer time-on-wing, a 20% reduction in maintenance costs and a 3% reduction in SFC compared to previous-gen engines, the D328eco is a game-changing solution for regional aviation.

The fuel-efficient design guarantees significant cost savings for operators and affordable fares for passengers. With a maximum cruising speed of 324 KTS, a 30,000ft service ceiling and efficient engines that actively reduce the carbon footprint of the aircraft, the D328eco turboprop is positioned as the ideal replacement for aging jet aircraft that previously formed the backbone of regional aviation in the US.

Developed to cover the average trip length of regional air travel in North America, which is around 500NM, the D328eco aligns perfectly with the hub-and-spoke model prevalent in the United States. With a maximum range of 655NM at full capacity, the D328eco covers over 98% of all turboprop flights and 95% of all regional jet flights globally, while being capable of flying faster than any other turboprop aircraft currently in production. Its ability to operate on shorter runways enables access to remote communities, fostering economic growth and boosting tourism in underserved areas.

Deutsche Aircraft is committed to reshaping air travel in North America with its new 40-seater turboprop. With its sustainable, cost-effective and connectivity-focused approach, the D328eco is ready to revolutionise the regional aviation landscape, offering operators a reliable and future-proof investment in the advancement of air travel.

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Washington, D.C., 17 September 2024 – Deutsche Aircraft, a German aircraft manufacturer, will participate in the 2024 Regional Airline Association (RAA) Leaders Conference in Washington, D.C. This annual industry event serves as a gateway for aviation professionals in the United States to explore the future of regional air travel.

Deutsche Aircraft is a major player in regional air transportation with the 40-seater turboprop, the D328eco. This aircraft is the next-generation evolution of the in-service D328®, which is currently in use by regional airlines and multi-role aircraft operators across North America and globally.

The high-speed D328eco turboprop has a spacious and quiet cabin that prioritises passenger comfort. Equipped with the latest Garmin® avionics which offers an intuitive user experience with superior situational awareness for more effective decision-making, the aircraft incorporates advanced flight deck capabilities, a Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) compatible propulsion system and fuel-efficient engines. This innovative aircraft is not just transforming regional flight, it is also playing a vital role in reducing the carbon footprint of the aviation industry.

Airlines today recognise the significant cost advantages of smaller, more efficient aircraft in regional aviation. One of the key benefits of the D328eco is its ability to reduce the commercial risk on regional routes through its low trip cost, while maintaining an optimal seat-mile cost, making it a profitable choice for regional carriers. This will enable airlines to introduce new routes and reconnect remote communities with larger hubs, while revolutionising the market with unbeatable operating economics.

In the United States today, there are approximately 60 certified regional carriers. However, many of the sub-50-seater aircraft in the regional market are aging. This presents a significant market opportunity for the D328eco, especially in North America, with its extensive regional network for passenger and freight operations.

Nils Heuer, the Sales Director at Deutsche Aircraft, is excited to represent the company and showcase the D328eco at the RAA Leaders Conference from 23-25 September 2024. He appreciates the importance of understanding customer needs and is confident that this conference is the ideal platform to connect with potential operators of this state-of-the-art turboprop.

The Deutsche Aircraft team looks forward to welcoming conference attendees to their booth to witness the future of regional air travel take flight with the D328eco.

Wessling, 02 September 2024 – Deutsche Aircraft and global aerospace and national security company SNC proudly commemorate a significant achievement for the C-146A, known as the “Wolfhound,” by the U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC). This fleet of D328® turboprop aircraft has surpassed 200,000 operational flying hours, proving itself instrumental in meeting global mobility requirements.

The first C-146A Wolfhound entered service in 2011 and has become an integral part of the AFSOC inventory. The Wolfhound fleet is supported by Deutsche Aircraft, a subsidiary of SNC and the key OEM partner for all D328® type aircraft. Over the last 12 years, the aircraft has proven its multi-role capacity, accommodating up to 27 passengers, 6,000 pounds of cargo or four medical evacuation patients. The Wolfhound continues to demonstrate its versatility and strategic capabilities around the world today.

In recognition of its 200,000-hour milestone, USAF leadership joined SNC and the aircraft's maintenance team in a ceremony held in Florida in April 2024. This milestone was also celebrated at Deutsche Aircraft, located near Munich.

Nico Neumann, COO of Deutsche Aircraft, expressed his pride in this significant milestone: "We are honoured to be part of this achievement, which highlights once more the robust capabilities and versatility of the D328® turboprop aircraft. This success is based on the dedication of our in-service team and the strong collaboration with SNC. The next-generation D328eco™ carries the DNA of the D328® and will even further enhance efficiency with the latest technologies."

Deutsche Aircraft and SNC continue to demonstrate their commitment to excellence and innovation in the aviation industry. With the C-146A Wolfhound's remarkable achievement of 200,000 flight hours, they reaffirm their position as leaders in the aviation sector, providing reliable and efficient support for D328® aircraft serving multi-role missions.

LYNNWOOD, Wash/Wessling, 19 August 2024 – Crane Aerospace & Electronics, a segment of Crane Company (NYSE:CR), has been selected by German Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), Deutsche Aircraft to supply the Proximity Sensing System for its 40-seater regional turboprop aircraft, the D328eco. This decision comes several months after Crane A&E was chosen to provide the brake control system for the same aircraft.

For 60 years, Crane A&E has provided aircraft manufacturers with reliable proximity sensing components and systems for high-reliability position sensing of aircraft mechanical systems. More than 30 years ago, Crane was selected to provide a similar Proximity Sensing System for the D328® turboprop, building on this successful partnership. Crane A&E will introduce its latest proximity sensing interface on the D328eco, offering Deutsche Aircraft a low-risk solution. 

“We are pleased to be working with Deutsche Aircraft and look forward to supplying the D328eco with our latest proximity sensing solution,” remarked Joseph Mundinger, Crane Aerospace & Electronics VP/GM, Sensing & Power Systems. “Customer satisfaction is our top priority, and we are committed to providing the D328eco with a premier system that will benefit Deutsche Aircraft’s customers.”

Nico Neumann, COO at Deutsche Aircraft, confidently announced, "We are glad to continue our ongoing partnership with Crane Aerospace & Electronics, a highly esteemed organization in our industry. Their proven expertise will be crucial for Deutsche Aircraft efforts to advance the completion of our D328eco."

Farnborough, 02 August 2024 – German Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Deutsche Aircraft and Senior plc ("Senior"), an international manufacturer of high technology components and systems, are pleased to announce the signing of a life of programme contract. This contract comprises the design, development and manufacture of the Bleed Air System and the Engine Build Up (EBU) system for the innovative 40-seater D328eco regional turboprop aircraft. The Senior Aerospace EBU system will serve as the interface between the PW127XT-S engines and the aircraft.

The D328eco is set to redefine aviation standards as the most advanced, energy-efficient and cost-effective 40-seater regional turboprop on the market. Building upon the in-service D328® turboprop aircraft, it will feature advanced flight deck capabilities, a SAF-compatible airframe and highly efficient engines.

Both Senior and Deutsche Aircraft are committed to achieving Net Zero sustainability goals as they play an important role in the decarbonisation of the aerospace industry. Senior has been given an A rating by CDP for its 2022 and 2023 work on climate disclosure and action and has also received an A rating for Supplier Engagement in 2022 and 2023. Deutsche Aircraft is leading the industry by designing the first 100% carbon-neutral aircraft final assembly line.

The design phase will be carried out at Senior's SSP facility in Burbank, California, in the US, while the manufacturing of the system will take place at the Senior Bird Bellows facility in Congleton, Cheshire, in the UK. The D328ecoaircraft from Deutsche Aircraft will be manufactured at the new final assembly line at Leipzig/Halle Airport in Germany.

Dave Jackson, CEO of Deutsche Aircraft commented on this new partnership, stating: “We are looking forward to our collaboration with Senior, a manufacturer of high technology components and a systems provider that will support the EBU for our innovative new turboprop, the D328eco.”

Launie Fleming, CEO of Senior Aerospace, expressed the significance of this contract at the Farnborough International Airshow, saying: “We are delighted to be awarded this contract from Deutsche Aircraft for the advanced, sustainable D328eco platform. This is a tangible example of our purpose in action – helping to engineer the transition to a more sustainable world for the benefit of all our stakeholders. We look forward to supporting Deutsche Aircraft through the development of this exciting new aircraft.”

Farnborough, 26 July 2024 - Deutsche Aircraft, the German Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), has concluded a successful week at the Farnborough International Airshow. The highlight of this year's event was the unveiling of the first fuselage cut for the inaugural test aircraft for the D328eco™ programme.

The Farnborough International Airshow began on a momentous note for Deutsche Aircraft, as the OEM announced the initiation of the first fuselage cut for the D328eco test aircraft. This significant milestone sets the stage for the test aircraft's maiden flight. With over 95% of suppliers already onboard, the D328eco programme has made remarkable progress over the past four years.

In addition, Deutsche Aircraft welcomed two additional suppliers during the week, that will further strengthen the programme's robust supply chain network. These include SASMOS HET for the design, development and fabrication of the Electrical Wiring Interconnection System (EWIS) and Triumph for the precooler.

Exclusive “328” Chalet

The prominent presence of Deutsche Aircraft at the 2024 Farnborough International Airshow was highlighted by its exclusive location at Chalet 328, a number synonymous with the OEM and its associated aircraft type. The construction of the chalet’s Customer Experience Centre was designed around the placement of the immersive D328eco mock-up, which was presented as a single cabin and cockpit experience.

Bringing the Bavarian spirit to Farnborough

To showcase the D328eco, Deutsche Aircraft also hosted a traditional Bavarian event which has become synonymous with the OEM and their German heritage. This exclusive event offered journalists and industry partners an opportunity to engage with the Deutsche Aircraft team and acquire insights into the aircraft’s latest technologies. Attendees were also treated to an exclusive tour of the cabin and cockpit mock-up, giving them a firsthand look at the D328eco's cutting-edge features.

Anastasija Visnakova, Vice President Sales and Marketing at Deutsche Aircraft remarked: “Our successful participation at the Farnborough Air Show this year underscores our dedication to advancing the D328eco programme and solidifying our position as a leading player in the aviation industry. With major milestones achieved and an expanding network of suppliers and business partners, the future looks promising for Deutsche Aircraft and our innovative aircraft.”

The Deutsche Aircraft team continues to build lasting relationships with important business partners while contributing to the European and global aviation value chain with the D328eco.

Farnborough, 25 July 2024 – German Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), Deutsche Aircraft, has achieved a significant milestone for the D328eco™ programme. The OEM successfully commenced the construction of the first test aircraft, TAC 1, by starting work on the extension of the D328® fuselage, that will seat 40 passengers.

This achievement not only represents the significant progress of the D328eco programme, but also highlights the outstanding teamwork involved in the development process. The use of a specifically developed precision tool to cut the fuselage of TAC 1 demonstrates the expertise required for this meticulous task by the engineering team at Deutsche Aircraft.

The milestone was revealed and celebrated at the 2024 Farnborough International Airshow in the presence of business partners and the media, putting the spotlight on this significant achievement for Deutsche Aircraft and the D328eco programme at one of the world’s largest airshows. The dedicated team remains focused on the development and testing stages to come. With the support of a robust supply chain network, Deutsche Aircraft will continue making strides in the regional aviation sector.

The D328eco programme has made substantial progress in establishing a strong supply chain network. With contracts secured for over 95% of its suppliers, the programme is poised for success.

This latest accomplishment represents a significant leap forward for Deutsche Aircraft, underscoring the company's dedication to pushing boundaries and setting new industry standards, while reaffirming the OEM’s commitment to innovation and excellence.

"We are thrilled to announce the fuselage cut for the D328eco programme," said Nico Neumann, COO of Deutsche Aircraft. "This milestone is a testament to the hard work and ingenuity of our team, which has successfully started the TAC 1 development process. It showcases our commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions and enabling early flight testing for the D328eco”.  

“The start of construction for the test D328eco is great news for the company and the market,” added Anastasija Visnakova, VP Sales and Marketing at Deutsche Aircraft. “The hard work that has gone into the design of the D328eco according to market needs will be integrated into the construction of the test aircraft, to deliver a best-in-class turboprop for regional and special mission operators.”

The D328eco programme aims to revolutionise regional aviation with an environmentally friendly and cost-effective aircraft. With its advanced technologies and sustainable design, the D328eco offers operators enhanced fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, contributing to a greener future for the aviation industry.

Farnborough, 24 July 2024 - Triumph Group, Inc. (TRIUMPH) [NYSE:TGI] announced today that its Thermal Systems Division, located in Forest, Ohio, has been awarded a long-term-program contract to design, manufacture and support the precooler system for the 40-seater D328eco regional turboprop aircraft from German Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), Deutsche Aircraft. The D328eco will take performance and operational efficiency to the next level, as it is equipped with Pratt and Whitney PS127XT-S engines capable of operating on 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) including Power-to-Liquids (PtL) fuel with zero aromatics. The aircraft will also have advanced avionics enabling single-pilot operations, while consuming 40% less fuel and emitting 40% less carbon.

“TRIUMPH is very pleased to be a part of this work with Deutsche Aircraft,” said Justin Wolfanger, President of TRIUMPH Systems, Electronics and Controls. “The D328eco represents a step forward with sustainable fuel and a greener future in aerospace. We are increasingly engaged with the development of new thermal systems and solutions to support the sustainable future of flight. Alongside Deutsche Aircraft and many of our other partners, the future is looking greener.”

“We are delighted to announce this agreement with Triumph for the installation of the advanced precooler system on the D328eco,” said Nico Neumann, Chief Operations Officer, Deutsche Aircraft. “This partnership marks a significant step forward in enhancing the capabilities of our aircraft.”

Wessling, 22 July 2024 - Deutsche Aircraft proudly announces a strategic partnership with SASMOS HET Technologies Ltd., marking a significant milestone in their efforts to advance aerospace engineering worldwide.

In this groundbreaking collaboration, SASMOS HET Technologies will provide specialised design and development of Electrical wiring interconnection system (EWIS), enhancing the cutting-edge 40-seater regional turboprop from Deutsche Aircraft, the D328eco. This partnership underscores the commitment of both companies to innovation and expert craftsmanship, with SASMOS bringing their expertise to this collaboration.

Nico Neumann, COO at Deutsche Aircraft, states, “We are excited to welcome SASMOS HET Technologies as a partner of the D328eco programme. Their reputation for developing and delivering top-tier aerospace wiring solutions aligns perfectly with our needs for the D328eco. This partnership promises to advance our aircraft programme and set new industry standards.”

“Being chosen by Deutsche Aircraft is a significant recognition for us,” says Chandrashekar H.G., CMD of SASMOS HET Technologies Ltd. “This partnership affirms our position as innovators in aerospace technology and strengthens our commitment to become leaders in the industry.”

This collaboration will not only propel the D328eco to new heights but also solidify the leadership that Deutsche Aircraft has shown in the global aerospace market. Both Deutsche Aircraft and SASMOS expect this partnership to yield significant advancements in operational efficiencies and industry-leading innovations.

Wessling, 19 July 2024 – Deutsche Aircraft recently hosted an international gathering of elite police and military special operations forces from over 12 nations at Oberpfaffenhofen Airport in Wessling. The Paradays event featured parachute jumps from the in-service D328® aircraft, highlighting its versatility as a Special Mission Aircraft. Its EASA-approved In-Flight Operable Door (IFOD) allows for efficient aerial delivery applications, including humanitarian aid missions.

The D328® can be quickly reconfigured for various roles, such as personnel transport, logistics, casualty evacuation, search & rescue and parachute operations. This adaptability supports humanitarian and disaster relief efforts by facilitating the rapid deployment of highly trained first responders, as well as tactical and covert military operations. Building on this legacy, our next-generation D328eco™ is poised to elevate these multi-role capabilities even further.

Given the current global geopolitical landscape, the importance of swift operational response and international cooperation is paramount. Paradays offered a unique opportunity for participants to experience the D328® multi-mission aircraft first-hand in parachute operations, fostering international collaboration through the sharing of knowledge and experience about this versatile aircraft.

Dave Jackson, CEO of Deutsche Aircraft, stated: "We take great pride in our participation in this prestigious event, as we demonstrate the advanced capabilities of the D328® in tactical parachute operations, humanitarian aid and multi-purpose missions."

Wessling, July 5, 2024 – Deutsche Aircraft, the pioneering German Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), announces a revised entry into service (EIS) timeline for its 40-seater regional turboprop, the D328eco. The aircraft is now set for EIS in the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2027. The adjustments to the timeline align with regulatory changes that entail the detailed and comprehensive certification process, and the associated compliance requirements.

This update comes after detailed internal review and intensive discussions with customers and potential operators, the aviation value chain, and key stakeholders. While the reasons behind this decision are multifaceted, the revised EIS timeline will also enable Deutsche Aircraft to implement additional capabilities and improvements to the brand-new regional turboprop.

Deutsche Aircraft continues to collaborate closely with current and potential operators, as well as suppliers, on the latest developments in the D328eco programme. Several new features and capabilities are being evaluated, including a further improvement of STOL (Short Take-off and Landing) performance, specifically in non-benign operational environments, combined with advanced avionics capabilities. These changes will be made in the context of the current certification and programme envelope and will advance the D328eco to even higher standards of market requirement alignment for both commercial and multi-role operators.

While the pressure on the global aviation manufacturing supply chain remains very high, Deutsche Aircraft can be proud of an excellent support from the business partners and stakeholders across the industry. Overall, these partnerships remain incredibly strong and positive in the aviation value chain, which enables the programme to progress.

Dave Jackson, CEO of Deutsche Aircraft, remarks: “While we have had to realign the EIS for our D328eco, we are taking this opportunity to investigate further product enhancements and satisfied by the tremendous progress of the programme to date: our certification panels with EASA are advancing successfully, start of construction for our Final Assembly Line in Leipzig has begun and we have secured over 95% of our suppliers, including those providing access to strategic growth markets. We will be announcing further milestones during the upcoming Farnborough International Airshow.

Building on the renowned in-service D328-100, the new D328eco leads the market with innovative elements including a state-of-the-art Garmin avionics suite and PW127XT-S engines which will be fully compatible with SAF-PtL at EIS. These advancements make the D328eco an advanced and unique 21st century turboprop, ready for the future of aviation. Most importantly, we are pleased to receive continued interest and demand for the D328eco from different segments across the market.

Our success would not be possible without the dedication of our team, support from our industry partners and the substantial involvement of regional and multi-role operators during product development.”

Deutsche Aircraft is poised to revolutionise regional air travel with the D328eco through its advanced features and capabilities, including a spacious and comfortable cabin, cutting-edge avionics, superior fuel efficiency and unbeatable operational capabilities.

As we propel forward through 2024, I am pleased to share the milestones we have achieved during the second quarter of this year. Let’s take look back at some of the key highlights from Q2 as we continue our journey to new heights of regional aviation:

Team Development: With a current team of over 500 from around the globe, we’re cultivating an inclusive work environment, actively supporting the development of top talent in aviation and continuing to connect with future aerospace leaders.

Supporting Climate-Neutral Aviation in Northern Europe: Sustainable Aviation Fuels play a crucial role in achieving near climate-neutral aviation. In collaboration with key stakeholders Energi i Nord, BLU and Bodø Municipality from the energy and aviation industries in Northern Norway, we hosted a very productive conference focusing on the commercial development of e-fuel in this region.

D328eco™ Progress on Track: We have attained additional milestones for our sustainable 40-seater turboprop, signing agreements with suppliers Cyient and Satys Cabin from India and France respectively. Market demand is strong, and we are making significant progress in filling our customer order book including the Asia-Pacific region, which is one of the biggest regional growth markets

Aftermarket Support of D328® Fleet: We announced our strategic partnership with Airplane Painter, a painting and sealing service provider based in Toulouse. Airplane Painter has been chosen as the exclusive supplier for the stripping and repainting of the in-service D328® fleet.

Pioneering Aerospace at ILA Berlin 2024: Ahead of the event, our team went to Braunschweig to hand over the model UpLift aircraft to the Chairwoman of DLR Executive Board, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Anke Kaysser-Pyzalla. The innovative D328® UpLift flying testbed, collaboration between Deutsche Aircraft and the German Aerospace Center (DLR), showcases cross-industry aerospace capabilities and is setting the stage for groundbreaking advancements in the German aviation industry.

Highlighting our unwavering commitment to innovative and sustainable aviation, we supported industry partners as the key OEM for the D328® UpLift, which was showcased at the DLR booth. Our R&T team proudly took part in ILA Berlin, engaging with industry professionals at the BMWK stand where the D328ALPHA aircraft was displayed. With our joint efforts with DLR the first test flight for the D328® UpLift aircraft from Oberpfaffenhofen Airport in Weßling to ILA Berlin powered by synthetic fuel with zero aromatics was carried out successfully.

We also announced the start of the construction of our 100% climate friendly Final Assembly Line at Leipzig/Halle Airport, which will generate more than 250 jobs in Saxony.

Our HR team was part of the ILA Talent Hub which proved an ideal platform for us to connect with the top talent, both within and outside of the industry. With our participation we sought to attract skilled professionals who are eager to contribute to the future of aviation.

Overall this quarter saw positive developments with the D328eco programme as we added new suppliers and commenced construction of our Final Assembly Line. We look forward to sharing more developments and exciting news as 2024 unfolds.

Best wishes,

Dave Jackson

CEO, Deutsche Aircraft

We have successfully participated in Europe’s leading aerospace trade fair, ILA Berlin 2024. This five-day biennial event held in Berlin, Germany, was a valuable platform for us to showcase our dedication to innovation, sustainability, and collaboration.

On the first day, we announced the commencement of construction of our Final Assembly Line at Leipzig/Halle Airport. Our Chief Operating Officer, Nico Neumann, met with the State Secretary of the Saxon State Ministry for Economics, Labour and Transport, Thomas Kralinski, to discuss the progress of this significant project. This development marks a crucial milestone for us as it expands our manufacturing capabilities.

We were also an active participant at the ILA Stage Aviation Future Lab, where Regina Pouzolz, our Director of Sustainability, moderated a special international panel. The discussion focused on the potential of establishing a climate-neutral regional aviation ecosystem in Northern Norway, with an emphasis on the region's abundant, low-cost renewable energy and our commitment to sustainable practices.

On the second day of the event, the D328 UpLift aircraft, a project funded by the Federal Ministry of Transport and Climate Action (BMWK), was showcased at the DLR booth. This aircraft, part of the LuFo Klima aviation research programme, serves as an open platform for the industry, including SMEs, start-ups, and research institutions, to explore climate-friendly flight solutions.

On the third day of ILA Berlin, we also invited aerospace professionals and aspiring graduates to visit our booth at the ILA Talent Hub. Attendees had the opportunity to learn more about the vision, current projects, and exciting career prospects at our company.

Our presence at ILA Berlin 2024 underscores our unwavering commitment to driving innovation, sustainability, and collaboration within the aerospace industry. From our new Final Assembly Line and strong connection to regional aviation clusters, to our active participation in climate-neutral aviation initiatives, we are poised to shape the future of regional aviation.

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Berlin, June 7 2024 – Deutsche Aircraft is taking part in the ILA Talent Hub at ILA Berlin, one of the world’s largest aerospace trade shows. The ILA Talent Hub is a key platform for aerospace companies seeking top talent in the industry.  

With a strong base in Oberpfaffenhofen, Munich, Deutsche Aircraft is now expanding its operations and creating new job opportunities in the Leipzig region. The establishment of the Final Assembly Line at Leipzig/Halle Airport, where the 40-seater sustainable turboprop, the D328ecoTM, will be manufactured, will position Deutsche Aircraft as a prominent player in the aerospace sector and offer exciting prospects for experienced professionals and aspiring graduates.

The Talent Hub at ILA Berlin is an ideal setting for Deutsche Aircraft to connect with top talent, both within and outside of the industry. By participating in this event, the company aims to attract skilled individuals who are eager to contribute to the future of aviation.

Deutsche Aircraft's expansion into the Leipzig region not only signifies its commitment to growth but also highlights the company's dedication to fostering career development. These new job opportunities will provide aerospace professionals with the chance to work on cutting-edge projects, while offering new graduates a platform to kickstart their careers in the industry.

"We are thrilled to be part of the Talent Hub at ILA Berlin as we extend our presence in the Leipzig region," says Alexander Randl, Head of Recruitment at Deutsche Aircraft. "This expansion represents a significant milestone for our company, and we are excited to welcome talented individuals who share our passion for aviation."

Deutsche Aircraft invites all aerospace professionals and aspiring graduates to visit their booth at the Talent Hub during ILA Berlin. This is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the company's vision, projects, and the exciting career prospects they have on offer.

Leipzig/Halle, June 5, 2024 – Deutsche Aircraft has started preparations for the construction of the new Final Assembly Line (FAL) at Leipzig/Halle Airport. Together with local partners, initial progress is currently underway at the construction site. With this development, Deutsche Aircraft has reached a new milestone in the D328eco programme as construction moves forward for the new 40-seater turboprop in the Free State of Saxony.

In May 2023, Deutsche Aircraft commemorated the ground-breaking ceremony in Leipzig alongside federal and state partners. Since then, foundations for the construction of the FAL have been laid.

The German OEM is currently preparing for the next phase of this ambitious project. The State Secretary of the Saxon State Ministry for Economics, Labour and Transport, Thomas Kralinski, met Nico Neumann, COO of Deutsche Aircraft, at the Deutsche Aircraft stand during his visit to ILA 2024 in Berlin today to discuss the status of the project.

Expressing his satisfaction with the progress, Deutsche Aircraft COO, Nico Neumann, stated, “We are excited about the continued progress of the Final Assembly Line in Leipzig. The implementation of the latest industry standards is a crucial part of our D328eco programme. We are also making good progress in preparing the 250 employees for starting work at the site. The initial employees have arrived and we have begun training for the Leipzig location.”

The State Secretary of Saxony, Thomas Kralinski, added, “The Saxon State Ministry for Economics, Labour and Transport is providing support for this project and I am pleased to announce that the preparatory construction work at Leipzig/Halle Airport has officially started. I would like to extend my best wishes to Deutsche Aircraft and all its partners for a swift and successful construction process for the new Leipzig hangar.”

The Final Assembly Line will be 100% climate friendly. Through the installation of a photovoltaic system on the roof, all the energy required for production will be generated in a CO2-neutral manner. In addition, the incorporation of the latest heat pumps and energy storage systems will ensure a self-sufficient electricity supply for the production line. The environmentally conscious design is complemented by a green roof and a wood-concrete hybrid construction for the administration building.

Deutsche Aircraft is also focusing on digital processes and is aiming for 100% paperless production. Automated and driverless transport systems and the use of innovative IT solutions will not only improve the efficiency but also the precision of production. This will create a modern production facility and an attractive workplace.

The Final Assembly Line, together with the flight readiness hangar, logistics centre and administration building, will cover an area of around 62,000 square meters. The intention is to produce forty-eight D328eco aircraft per year and between 250 and 350 jobs will be created in the region.

With an investment of over 100 million euros, Deutsche Aircraft and its partners are committed to championing  innovation and sustainability in aviation.

Berlin, June 5, 2024 – Deutsche Aircraft, an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) based in the heart of Bavaria’s aerospace cluster, is proud to participate in Europe’s leading aerospace trade fair, ILA Berlin. The highly anticipated event will commence with the esteemed presence of German Chancellor, Olaf Scholz, underscoring the significance of this occasion for the German and European aerospace industries.

At ILA Berlin, attendees have the exclusive opportunity to see the remarkable D328® UpLift flying testbed firsthand, which marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of sustainable aviation solutions. As part of its commitment to promoting climate-friendly aviation, Deutsche Aircraft is a key partner of the German Aerospace Center (DLR) for the conversion of the D328® UpLift flying testbed. This groundbreaking project exemplifies the company's dedication to advancing aviation technology and highlights its pivotal role within the German, European and global aviation value chain.

The D328® UpLift flying testbed represents a crucial step towards promoting sustainable aviation solutions. Equipped with state-of-the-art avionics systems and engines temporarily modified to run on synthetic fuels, the aircraft is poised to undertake an experimental CO₂ emission measurement campaign.

Adapted from an existing D328® airframe, the D328ALPHA model will be on display at the German Federal Ministry of Economics and Climate Action stand during ILA Berlin. The D328ALPHA programme aims to reduce aviation emissions by evaluating and flight-testing promising technologies, including electric propulsion, fuel cells and liquid hydrogen storage. This project is part of the LuFo VI-I Civil Aviation Research programme and is partially funded by the German Federal Ministry of Economics and Climate Action (BMWK). The goal of LuFo is to create a fuel-cell-powered demonstrator, aligning with Deutsche Aircraft's ongoing efforts to push the boundaries in aircraft innovation.

Deutsche Aircraft is committed to shaping the future of aviation through its participation in the D328® UpLift project, playing a pivotal role within the German and international aviation value chain. The company remains steadfast in driving progress and fostering collaboration across borders.

Hamburg, 28 May 2024 – German Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Deutsche Aircraft, and Satys Cabin have announced a joint agreement at the Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg for the supply of lavatory assemblies for the D328eco. Satys is a fully owned subsidiary of Satys Industries, an industrial holding company, which also owns Satys Aerospace, a leader in the aircraft paint market, and specializes in aircraft cabin outfitting. Located in Blagnac, Roissy and Tianjin (China), the company employs a team of 210 people and is expected to achieve sales of 26 million euros in 2024 (+40% on 2023). Its continuous growth since 2022 is the result of its twofold commitment to competitiveness and guaranteeing the on-time delivery of quality products.

The lavatory assemblies that Satys Cabin will produce for the D328eco will meet the high standards of functionality, reliability and safety required in air transport. Satys’ innovations include touchless options and configurations for passengers with reduced mobility. Satys Cabin is also committed to integrating industrial constraints of Deutsche Aircraft from the design stage to optimize assembly during the cabin-outfitting phase.

The project is headed by CEO and founder of Satys, Christophe Cador. In August 2023, Deutsche Aircraft commissioned Satys Cabin to design and produce the interior fittings for the D328eco. The German OEM has now entrusted Satys Cabin with the production of lavatory facilities for the 40-seater turboprop, which is next generation regional aircraft design for the global market.

The extension of this extension of this partnership confirms the OEM’s confidence and appreciation of its interior supplier. “We are proud to be associated with the realisation of this innovative aircraft, the technical specifications of which attest to Deutsche Aircraft's determination to reduce the carbon footprint of air transport, emphasizes Antoine Gaugler, General Director of Satys Cabin. This ambition is also a priority for Satys Industries, and one that Satys Cabin strives to implement through the products it designs and produces for its customers".

Patricia Ferrari, Director Procurement of Deutsche Aircraft, emphasizes the importance of this partnership: “The industry and technical know-how that Satys Cabin brings, along with the lavatory assemblies, will advance the onboard product quality which will serve the D328eco. We look forward to our long-term collaboration with Satys Cabin”.

Toulouse/Munich, 22 May 2024 – Deutsche Aircraft has announced a strategic partnership with Airplane Painter, a painting and sealing service provider based in Toulouse, France. Airplane Painter will serve as the supplier for the stripping and repainting of the D328 fleet.

Airplane Painter has extensive experience in the aviation industry, with more than 20 years of expertise in aircraft painting. Their dedication to precision, quality and innovation aligns seamlessly with Deutsche Aircraft's commitment to excellence.

In addition, Airplane Painter also operates another company specialising in Part 145 activities, further enhancing their capabilities in the aviation sector.

“We are excited to partner with Airplane Painter as our trusted supplier,” says Peter Spyrka, Vice President of Programmes at Deutsche Aircraft. “We look forward to a fruitful and collaborative partnership as we work together to elevate our fleet aesthetics and ensure the highest standards of quality and performance.”

“This partnership represents a significant step forward for both Deutsche Aircraft and Airplane Painter,” remarks Charly Arslan, Vice President, and Founder of Airplane Painter. “We aim to establish a long-term relationship built on mutual trust, respect and shared values.”

The two companies are committed to providing operators with a comprehensive and seamless one-stop solution for the D328® fleet for aircraft maintenance and painting needs.

Wessling, 06 May 2024 – Deutsche Aircraft Chief Operating Officer, Nico Neumann, handed over the model UpLift aircraft to the Chairwoman of DLR Executive Board, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Anke Kaysser-Pyzalla, in Braunschweig, Germany. The D328® UpLift flying testbed, a collaboration between Deutsche Aircraft and the German Aerospace Center (DLR), will showcase cross-industry German aerospace capabilities, setting the stage for groundbreaking advancements in the German aviation industry.

By leveraging the expertise and resources of key stakeholders, the aim of this partnership is to drive innovation in the pursuit of sustainable aviation.

In September 2023, during the German National Aviation Conference (Nationale Luftfahrtkonferenz) in Hamburg, the UpLift D328® test platform was unveiled to the general public.

The UpLift aircraft will continue to undergo significant transformation as a flying testbed until the end of 2025, when it will be used as part of the research into the climate impacts of aviation, particularly greenhouse gases and non-CO2 effects.  

In less than two months, at ILA Berlin 2024, Europe’s largest aerospace trade fair and a global meeting point for industry pioneers, the flying testbed will be showcased at the DLR stand, alongside a model of the interior modifications, including flight test instruments. During this event, industry partners will have the unique opportunity to discuss future research projects.

Funded by the German government and led by DLR, the UpLift Program will pave the way for climate-friendly flights which will benefit the global aviation industry. By providing the flying testbed, Deutsche Aircraft has contributed to this shared vision for the future of aviation and the pursuit of near climate-neutral flying.

A second life for the legacy D328®: Pioneering research towards climate-friendly aviation

As the Type Certificate Holder of the D328® family, Deutsche Aircraft is proud that the D328-100 mod 20 was selected as the flying test laboratory for the UpLift Program. This recognition underscores Deutsche Aircraft's commitment to advancing future technologies.

Nico Neumann, COO of Deutsche Aircraft, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “The D328® UpLift will enable the aviation industry to mature new technologies to make an early impact. This learning curve, based on smaller aircraft, is crucial for scaling technologies.”

The Chairwoman of the DLR Executive Board, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Anke Kaysser-Pyzalla, emphasised the importance of the D328® UpLift research aircraft in DLR’s research fleet, “The role of this flying test laboratory is to pave the way for a climate-friendly aviation and a closer collaboration within the aviation industry.”  

Dr. Jasmin Eberharter, Head of Strategy, and Industrial Relations at Deutsche Aircraft, remarked, “The challenges that the aviation industry is facing requires a common vision and collaborative efforts with all stakeholders. UpLift will represent a blueprint to jointly demonstrate the feasibility of our industry’s strategic roadmap towards sustainable and near climate neutral aviation.”

Head to the UpLift website to find out more about how the aviation industry and the German government are collaborating for the future of sustainable aviation. This initiative is a step forward to maturing tech, proofing impact, scaling future solutions and supporting the development of new ideas into real flight conditions.

Bodø/Munich, 25 April 2024 – While Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) play a crucial role in achieving climate-neutral aviation, investments in e-fuel production in the European Economic Area (EEA) are still lacking in ambition. In response to this, German aircraft OEM Deutsche Aircraft, Energi i Nord (North Energy Cluster), BLU (Bodø Lufthavnutvikling) and Bodø Municipality hosted a two-day conference to discuss scaling up e-fuel production capacity with key stakeholders from the energy and aviation industries on April 24 and 25.

The ReFuelEU Aviation regulation mandates increasing shares of SAF in the European fuel mix to reach a requirement of 70% in 2050 and a 35% sub-mandate for e-kerosene.

Transport & Environment has been tracking the development of the e-kerosene market in Europe. By its latest count, the NGO identified a total of 50 e-kerosene projects in the EEA, including 30 large-scale industrial projects and 20 smaller pilot projects.

Given that the required e-fuel production capacity is not on track to meet the blending mandates outlined in the RefuelEU regulation, the objective of this conference was to discuss the commercial hurdles that need to be overcome to scale SAF and e-fuel production capacity. The participants of the events were key stakeholders from the public sector, airports, SAF producers, financiers and airlines.

“While momentum seems to be building in the European e-kerosene market, it is important to note that none of the major projects have reached final investment decisions (FID) yet, and many projects are still running feasibility studies,” observed Marte van der Graaf, Aviation Policy Officer at Transport & Environment.

Jan-Hendrik Petersen, Managing Director at 360 Asset Finance, added, “A simple, back-of-the-envelope calculation shows that if we apply the 70% SAF ReFuelEU blending mandate to global jet fuel demand in 2050, aviation will need approximately 350 billion litres of SAF. This translates to roughly 2,800 production facilities with an average capacity of 100,000t/a. Starting today, we would have to build about 110 plants every year at an average cost of roughly USD $1 billion per facility.”

“Air transport is central to national and international connectivity and the transition to more environmentally friendly aviation, including increased use of SAF, is not only desirable, but necessary to contribute to national and international climate goals,” remarked Bent-Joacim Bentzen, Norwegian Deputy Minister for Transportation. “To facilitate this transition, the Norwegian Ministry of transport, together with Avinor, the Civil Aviation Authority, the trade union (LO) and the association for companies (NHO), have established a collaborative forum. Furthermore, in the recently published National Transport Plan 2025-2036, 1 billion NOK has been prioritised to accelerate the transition to a greener aviation sector. The blending mandate for SAF, where Norway has taken an early lead, will also be important. We are clearly at the beginning of a challenging journey. Still, we believe Northern Norway can play a central role by maturing e-fuel production to enable the decarbonisation of aviation."

The discussion focused on the need for more access to SAF financing. Risk-return profiles are still not attractive for investors and are perceived as too complex with insufficient risk mitigation tools. This holds especially true for e-kerosene, which offers scalability and the significant reduction of greenhouse gas emissions but poses higher risks for investors due to its lower maturity in comparison to other SAF pathways.

“It is important to realise that we are not on track with scaling Sustainable Aviation Fuels to secure aviation's societal license to operate,” stated Ulrike Ziegler, President of the Board, Impact on Sustainable Aviation. “During the conference, we discussed the key obstacles, from the complexity and instability of the policy landscape and the need for tangible, long-term offtake agreements, to the importance of adequate risk mitigation and financing instruments to support first-of-its-kind e-fuel projects. In addition to ensuring that relevant stakeholders from the broader supply chain, including policymakers, collaborate to develop risk mitigation measures, the industry must also step up the education of the passengers to get their buy-in.”

During the conference, several SAF producers also showcased promising e-fuel projects, such as Norsk e-Fuel, which is building a 50 million litre production plant in Mosjøen that will commence full-scale production after 2026.

“A key success factor for e-fuel projects is the early involvement of value-chain partners and local stakeholders,” observed Ida Larsen, Head of R&D, Norsk e-Fuel. “The offtake agreement with Norwegian Air Shuttle and their investment in our company is one example and shows how we are moving the project forward.”

“Globally, SAF will be short in supply for a long time, but regions such as Northern Norway have the potential to see significantly higher blend ratios, making the region an ideal place for pioneering near-climate-neutral regional aviation,” remarked Regina Pouzolz, Director of Sustainability at Deutsche Aircraft. “Join us at the ILA Future Lab at ILA Berlin on 5 June 2024 if you want to learn how we are reshaping regional aviation with our exciting and fruitful partnership.”

Hyderabad/Munich, 27 March 2024 – Cyient, a global company offering intelligent engineering and technology solutions, is announcing a strategic partnership with Deutsche Aircraft, a German original equipment manufacturer (OEM) located in Weßling, close to Munich. Within the scope of this partnership, the companies will collaborate on the detailed design for manufacturing (DFM) of the rear fuselage section for the 40-seater D328eco regional turboprop aircraft.

Designed to operate along regional routes, the D328eco is a highly fuel-efficient aircraft that is an upgraded version of the Dornier 328 series. With an increased passenger capacity, the aircraft requires specific structural updates. The D328eco is expected to revolutionise regional air travel and become the benchmark of aviation with its advanced features, unmatched versatility and operational flexibility in the most challenging environments to connect regions and people.

“We are excited about our collaboration with Deutsche Aircraft to support the development of the D328eco aircraft. This partnership underscores Cyient's commitment to delivering innovative engineering solutions in the aerospace sector. Our expertise in the aircraft design and development life cycle will play a crucial role in the development of the D328eco. Together, we look forward to driving advancements in aviation technology and contributing to the success of this transformative project,” says Karthikeyan Natarajan, Executive Director and CEO of Cyient.

"We are thrilled to be working with Cyient,” remarks Dave Jackson, Chief Executive Officer at Deutsche Aircraft. “Their vast experience in the Aerospace & Defence industry was one of the key factors in contracting them to be responsible for the design of the rear fuselage section as part of our D328eco aircraft development programme.”

Maximilian Fahr, Vice President of Supply Chain at Deutsche Aircraft, also expressed his enthusiasm about the company's partnership with Cyient, stating, “This agreement represents a strong commitment to India. This new partnership with Cyient will enable Deutsche Aircraft to work with the best in the field and further enhance the development of the D328eco in a competitive setting.”

The regional aviation landscape in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is experiencing a major shift, with passenger demand increasing due to rapid economic growth in the middle class. In recent years, operators in the region have placed large aircraft orders and are continuing to seek solutions that will reduce environmental impact and address the challenge of escalating fuel costs. Enter the D328eco, a revolutionary turboprop that is poised to redefine regional aviation and pave the way towards a greener future.

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What Is Driving the Change in Regional Aviation?‍

The primary role of regional aviation is to act as a feeder service for mainline operators and establish connections with developing cities and communities. The investment value of new airport projects in the APAC region is at least double that of any other market with a  specific focus on developing new routes to Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. This shows the strong economic and market-driven demand for regional aircraft.

To cater to the growing demand, regional jets that are  too old or outdated for the operational and environmental requirements of today must be replaced by a next-generation turboprop aircraft that is  built for regional aviation. In fact, the turboprop market was the first segment to recover after the COVID downturn and since 2022, the use of regional turboprops has risen above the pre-COVID rates.

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The APAC region is home to a huge fleet of sub-50-seater turboprops that are more than 30 years old and have a replacement timeline that falls within the next decade. In fact, there are more than 100 aircraft in this category in Oceania alone.

Airlines are currently grappling with skyrocketing fuel costs that are squeezing profit margins and hindering growth. Turboprops will help to optimise operations as they are 10% to 30% more fuel efficient than jet aircraft.

The environmental footprint of aviation accounts for approximately 4% of global CO2 emissions and the industry is looking for a permanent solution to address these environmental concerns. With 100% SAF compatibility, the fuel efficiency of the D328eco makes it a ready-made solution.

‍The D328eco: A Sustainable Revolution

Developed by Deutsche Aircraft, the D328eco isn't just another turboprop: it is a highly efficient game-changer designed with sustainability at its core. Here's how it will surpass expectations compared to other turboprops currently on the market.

Risk-free option to open new routes: The APAC region is a price-sensitive market. The D328eco has the lowest break-even factor which will help operators to open new routes to address rising demands in remote regions where the majority of new airports are being built.

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Operational flexibility: The APAC region has a diverse range of geographical features such as archipelagos and high mountain ranges, and the D328eco will allow airlines to meet these operational requirements. More importantly, the inherent STOL capabilities of the D328eco allows it to operate with a load factor of 75% from runways that are 800 metres long and/or unpaved, easily operating above its break-even load factor.

Unmatched fuel efficiency: The D328eco boasts impressive fuel efficiency, leveraging the advanced technology of PW127XT-S engines and a meticulously crafted aerodynamic design. This translates to significant cost savings for airlines, including:

- 40% longer time-on-wing (engine overhaul increased to 20,000 FH*)

- At least 20% lower fuel consumption at long range cruise speed (compared to other turboprops in the market)

- 3% lower fuel burn (vs previous generation)

Quieter cabin & skies: Built on the legacy of the D328®, which is the quietest turboprop in its category, the D328eco will have the lowest noise levels of any turboprop, making it competitive with jets. The aircraft deploys passive noise cancellation which will allow passengers to enjoy a quieter experience, while also making it a welcome neighbour in smaller communities that are dependent on regional air travel by minimising noise disturbances.

Spacious & comfortable: The bright, spacious cabin has been developed to meet the unique needs of regional aviation. Robust enough to withstand the cyclical demands of regional air travel while being easy to maintain, its state-of-the-art features include comfortable seats with in-seat power, plenty of space for carry-on luggage, a fully equipped galley and optional Wi-Fi and in-flight connectivity solutions.

Advanced cockpit: The revolutionary Garmin® Companion integrated flight deck offers superior situational awareness and increased efficiency for pilots, while significantly reducing maintenance costs and improving reliability.

Lightweight design: Utilising advanced composite materials such as carbon fibre, the aircraft sheds weight, further reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

Flexible operational capabilities: Capable of taking off and landing on 800 metre runways (@ 70% load factor), the D328eco has an optional gravel kit and can also operate on unpaved runways, helping to improve connectivity with remote areas and islands across the APAC region. The D328eco also has the higher service ceiling and faster climb-rate in icing conditions than other turboprops in the market, helping airlines to operate in difficult conditions and around tall peaks in the region.

100% SAF/e-Fuel ready: Leading the charge towards a truly sustainable future, the D328eco is fully compatible with Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and Power-to-Liquids (PtL) which are cleaner and more practical alternatives to conventional Jet A-1 fuel. As SAF production ramps up, the D328eco is ready and available to embrace its full potential.

These advantages translate to significant cost savings for airlines and a quieter experience for passengers and communities, while also offering substantial benefits for the environment.

‍More Than Just Sustainability: Business Benefits

While sustainability and fuel efficiency are paramount, the D328eco isn't just an eco-warrior. It's also a smart business decision for airlines. Here’s why.

Lower operating costs: Fuel savings and reduced maintenance needs (52% less than older generation aircraft) translate to lower operating costs, boosting profitability. Deutsche Aircraft estimates up to a 11% reduction in direct operating costs for airlines and a 14% decrease in fuel consumption per passenger with the D328eco.

Route profitability: The efficiency of the D328eco will open up new and previously unprofitable routes thanks to its 30,000ft service ceiling (highest for a turboprop), 600km/h cruise speed (fastest for a turboprop) which is closer to the speed of a regional jet, low break-even factor and longer range (up to 655 nautical miles @ FL300, ISA), which will expand networks and attract new passengers.

‍The Future of Regional Flights Is Just Around the Corner

The D328eco isn't just a glimpse into the future; it is set to take flight in 2027. Airlines that pre-order this 21st century turboprop will reap the benefits of early adoption and position themselves as leaders in sustainable aviation, reducing CO2 emissions by 22% if they continue to use Jet A-1 fuel or up to 95% with SAF-PtL. In addition, the aviation industry is moving towards stricter environmental regulations, making the D328eco a future-proof investment.

The D328eco is more than just an aircraft; it's a symbol of change. It represents a commitment to a cleaner future in regional aviation with higher operational efficiency and a better return on investment for airlines. If you're an airline CEO or decision-maker looking for a solution that balances sustainability, profitability and innovation, the D328eco is the answer. Contact us today and join us as we shape the future of regional aviation.

*Based on 60 minute mission in benign environment (vs 14,000 FH)

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References

CH-Aviation (2023) Overview of all aircraft on order worldwide. Available at https://about.ch-aviation.com/blog/2023/06/19/ch-aviation-report-aircraft-on-order-worldwide/ (Accessed 13 March 2024)

Deutsche Aircraft, (2023) D328eco: The Turboprop (R)evolution. [brochure]

Williams, D. (2024) Flight Friday: 2023 In Review. Available at: https://aviationweek.com/air-transport/aircraft-propulsion/flight-friday-2023-review (Accessed 13 March 2024)

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We have navigated through the first three months of 2024 with flying colours as we continue to drive our mission to new heights. Let’s look back at some of the key highlights from this quarter:

Team Development: Our diverse team of aviation professionals at Deutsche Aircraft develops further! We currently have a workforce of 500+ individuals from around the world and continue to attract top talent with a background in aviation and aerospace.

Sustainable Future Flights: The German Federal Government Coordinator for Aerospace Policy, Dr. Anna Christmann, visited the UpLift test laboratory at our HQ in Oberpfaffenhofen in February to see the progress of the UpLift project. Deutsche Aircraft are currently transforming an in-service D328-100 aircraft into a flying test bed for future propulsion, fuel and system technologies. The fully converted aircraft will make its debut at ILA Berlin in June 2024. Deutsche Aircraft has also become a joint leader in the “CAvIA” federal aviation research programme, which launched in January with the aim of making aviation more environmentally friendly through intelligent avionics.

D328eco™ Progress: We have reached two additional milestones for our sustainable 40-seater turboprop for the forward and rear fuselage by contracting suppliers from Brazil and India: Brazilian aerospace and engineering company AKAER will manufacture the forward fuselage and Dynamatic Technologies, based in India, will manufacture the rear fuselage of the aircraft. Market demand is strong and we are making significant progress on our customer order book.

Market Strategy: As part of our market positioning strategy, we have launched our Mandarin website to promote our D328eco regional turboprop in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. The website will serve as a gateway for users across the Chinese-speaking market to access information about Deutsche Aircraft and the D328eco. Our work has been featured in a number of leading aviation publications in the APAC region, creating additional brand awareness in the Indian and Australian markets. Thanks to the growing GDP in the APAC region, there is significant potential demand for our product in this market.

Aftermarket Support for the D328®: We continue to support our in-service family of D328® aircraft in active operations. One of the key operators, NL EASP Air, was recently on-site in Oberpfaffenhofen with their complete fleet of D328® turboprops for maintenance support. This was the first time that the we had the crews of all NL EASP Air aircraft here on our premises.

Strong Regional Partnerships: Deutsche Aircraft are part of the bavAIRia Cluster for Aeronautics, Aerospace and Aerospace Applications. Due to our strategic location at Oberpfaffenhofen Airport, we have a strong brand presence and contribute to the aviation value chain in the region. We also recently hosted the Head of the Bavarian State Chancellery, Dr. Florian Herrmann, at our headquarters.

We have kicked off the first quarter with great milestones, are gaining traction in the APAC region and look forward to building more brand awareness as we expand into other markets. As 2024 unfolds, we are grateful for your continued support as we work together to bring the D328eco to market.

Best wishes,

Dave Jackson

CEO, Deutsche Aircraft‍

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Wessling/Bangalore, 13 March 2024 - Dynamatic Technologies Limited is proud to announce a new partnership with Deutsche Aircraft, the German OEM based in Münich, Germany. The collaboration focuses on producing the Rear Fuselage for the 40-seater D328eco regional turboprop aircraft. This marks a significant moment for the "Make in India” initiative and will bring work to the highly capable ecosystem here.

The contract signifies an important milestone as Deutsche Aircraft and Dynamatic work together to manufacture the D328eco, a sustainable regional turboprop. This modern, fuel-efficient aircraft is designed to serve regional routes and is set to revolutionise regional air travel globally. With its spacious cabin and superior performance capabilities, the D328eco offers exceptional design, features and operational flexibility.

Mr. Udayant Malhoutra, CEO and Managing Director of Dynamatic Technologies, expressed his pleasure in the collaboration, saying, "We are excited to partner with Deutsche Aircraft on the production of the rear fuselage for the D328eco aircraft. Dynamatic's expertise in aerospace engineering and manufacturing combined with Deutsche Aircraft's vision for innovation in regional air transport will pave the way for a successful partnership."

Mr. Dave Jackson, CEO of Deutsche Aircraft, said, “By partnering with Dynamatic Technologies, we are excited to team up with a key global player with its fast-growing aviation and aerospace industry as well as contributing to the “Make in India” initiative to make India a key global hub for the aviation supply chain. Dynamatic Technologies is one of the most important aerospace suppliers for global commercial OEMs. It has an extensive track record in the aerospace industry and will be a significant partner for the manufacturing of the D328eco.”

Maximilan Fahr, Vice President Supply Chain of Deutsche Aircraft, added, “This partnership with Dynamatic Technologies signifies our ability to cooperate with the best in the field and further leverage our supply chain resilience. As India is a key market for us in the APAC region, we are excited about this collaboration that represents a long-term commitment in India.”  

Both Deutsche Aircraft and Dynamatic are committed to the success of this partnership and the future of the D328eco aircraft programme. The signing of this contract marks a significant step forward in bringing this innovative aircraft to market.

Wessling/São José dos Campos, 11 March 2024 – Akaer, an aerospace and engineering company that is a leader in innovation, has been selected by German OEM Deutsche Aircraft to manufacture the forward fuselage of the D328eco, the sustainable 40-seater turboprop aircraft for the regional aviation market. Akaer will be responsible for the manufacturing of the forward fuselage, including industrialisation, tooling, prototype and related studies.

Collaboration and commitment

Akaer's agreement with Deutsche Aircraft is a significant achievement that strengthens its position in the global aerospace industry. Deutsche Aircraft has recognised Akaer's expertise in design engineering and the comprehensive assembly of the forward fuselage as decisive advantages. This premier Brazilian company is capable of designing and delivering large structural assemblies for the aerospace industry worldwide and Brazil has solidified its position as the third-largest aircraft manufacturer in the world.

"The D328eco signifies a major milestone in global aviation, heralding more sustainable and efficient flights. For Akaer, being a part of this significant project and playing a fundamental role in producing the forward fuselage is a source of great pride, further solidifying our position as a Tier 1 company," stated Cesar Silva, CEO of Akaer.

"The commitment and experience showcased by Akaer throughout this process was pivotal in our decision-making, Akaer is one of the key players in the Brazilian Aerospace industry which is why we are excited to collaborate on this project for the front fuselage which is a milestone in the D328eco programme," emphasised Dave Jackson, CEO of Deutsche Aircraft.

“This collaboration underscores the acknowledgment of Akaer's excellence and 32 years of experience in the aeronautical industry. The selection process was meticulous. We considered Akaer's commitment, customer focus and exemplary experience, which were instrumental in securing this significant project for the D328eco programme.” remarked Maximilan Fahr, Vice President Supply Chain of Deutsche Aircraft.

A booming aviation market

Brazil has the 5th largest airspace in the world and is currently focused on the expansion of regional aviation. Around US$ 600 million has been invested to connect the vast community by air and this collaboration will support Brazil’s initiatives to enhance its expertise and capacity in both regional aviation and aerospace manufacturing.

With the 2nd largest general aviation fleet in the world, Brazil has the potential to upgrade with the multi-role configuration of the D328eco, which can cater to its executive, aeromedical and agricultural aviation demands. The turboprop market share in Brazil has grown by 344% over the last 10 years.

The remarkable versatility of the D328eco multi role configuration allows it to be tailored for diverse operations, including passenger transport, rescue missions, military operations, forest firefighting and aeromedical services. Its exceptional flight characteristics and adaptability enable it to access destinations with short, unpaved runways, even in the most challenging weather conditions.

The D328eco boasts the lowest fuel consumption and pollutant emissions in the industry. It will be fully compatible with 100% SAF-PtL and other fuel blends, which means the aircraft will offer customers maximum flexibility when it comes to energy supply options.

The first delivery of the D328eco forward fuselage is scheduled for the end of 2025 and will initially be produced in Brazil at the facilities in São José dos Campos.

Wessling, 29 February 2024 – Deutsche Aircraft, a leading aircraft manufacturer, is pleased to announce the arrival of NL EASP AIR's complete fleet of D328® turboprop aircraft at its hangar at Oberpfaffenhofen Airport. NL EASP AIR, a renowned Dutch operator, specialises in providing global services for aerial maritime surveillance, coast guard operations, search and rescue (SAR) missions, ISR operations and special mission charter support. Their fleet of special mission aircraft, equipped with advanced sensors and systems, plays a crucial role in fulfilling these critical tasks.

Based at Schiphol International Airport (EHAM) and Den Helder Airport (EHKD), NL EASP AIR has chosen Deutsche Aircraft as their trusted partner for maintenance and support services. The entire fleet of three D328® turboprops is undergoing maintenance at the Deutsche Aircraft hangar, providing an opportunity for the crew of both organisations to meet and strengthen their partnership.

As one of the key European operators of the D328®, NL EASP AIR relies on the maintenance support of Deutsche Aircraft to ensure uninterrupted operations. NL EASP AIR's partners include prestigious organisations such as Frontex (the European Borderand Coast Guard Agency), ESA, the Indonesian Air Force (TNI-AU) and OEMs.

Nico Neumann, COO of Deutsche Aircraft, highlighted the long-standing partnership between Deutsche Aircraft and NL EASP Air, stating, "The high-quality support services provided by Deutsche Aircraft not only guarantees the excellent performance of the D328® but also ensures first-rate dispatch reliability in many commuter and charter operations across the globe. NL EASP AIR is one of the key operators benefitting from our proven customer and product support, which enables outstanding mission readiness in demanding, non-standard operations, such as border security, sea surveillance, air ambulance services and special mission roles."

Pieter Voeten, CEO of NL EASP AIR, expressed his satisfaction with Deutsche Aircraft's support and emphasised the importance of their partnership, stating, "To carry out our critical tasks, NL EASP AIR relies on the D328® special mission turboprop aircraft which is equipped with advanced sensors and systems. The long-standing customer and product support provided by Deutsche Aircraft ensures the safe and cost-effective operation of the NL EASP AIR fleet."

Deutsche Aircraft has also played a significant role in supporting NL EASP AIR's special mission operations by integrating the In-Flight Operable Door (IFOD) developed by AeroRescue, with EASA certification. This innovation allows the D328® to be used for various multi-role missions worldwide.

Deutsche Aircraft is proud to welcome NL EASP AIR’s fleet of D328® aircraft to Oberpfaffenhofen and looks forward to continuing this partnership. The continued success of the D328® is attributed to the exceptional customer and product support provided by Deutsche Aircraft.

Wessling, 26 February 2024 – German OEM, Deutsche Aircraft, announces the launch of its new Chinese language website, which is a significant step in the company’s efforts to expand its presence in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. The website will serve as a gateway for users across the Chinese-speaking market to access information about Deutsche Aircraft and its new 40-seater regional turboprop, the D328eco.

As Deutsche Aircraft grows its presence in Asia, it is eager to establish strong relationships with potential customers. The first step was taken at Aero Asia 2023, one of the most prominent airshows in Asia and China, where Deutsche Aircraft made its debut last year.  

Ryan Ding, Regional Director for China at Deutsche Aircraft, remarks, “The launch of our Chinese language website is a gateway to reach out to the Chinese-speaking APAC market and a great opportunity for us to introduce the D328eco turboprop, while building solid relationships with regional industry partners.”

The launch of the new website comes as Deutsche Aircraft continues to expand its reach and influence in the global media landscape.

For more information on the new Chinese language website, please visit our Chinese Website.

Wessling, 19 February 2024 – Dr. Anna Christmann, the Coordinator for Aerospace Policy of the German Federal Government, recently visited the Deutsche Aircraft headquarters in Oberpfaffenhofen to monitor the progress of the transformation of the D328® UpLift into a flying test laboratory. As a key OEM partner, Deutsche Aircraft is currently undertaking the conversion of a former passenger aircraft into a flying test bed. The Federal Government is an active advocate of sustainable aviation and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions to minimise the environmental impact of air travel.

Green light for the CAvIA LuFo project

On 1 January 2024, the "CAvIA" federal aviation research programme was launched, supported by federal funding of around 1.42 million Euros. As the joint leader of this project, Deutsche Aircraft is investigating flight operations with just one pilot, as well as energy-optimised trajectories. The aim of the project is to make aviation more environmentally friendly through the use of intelligent avionics.

The journey to ILA Berlin 2024 begins

The conversion of the D328® UpLift by Deutsche Aircraft is a crucial step towards this goal. The D328® UpLift will be equipped with state-of-the-art avionics systems and temporarily modified engines that are capable of running on sustainable fuels, aiming for an experimental CO₂ emission measurement campaign. The flying test bed will make its debut in June 2024 at ILA Berlin, the leading aerospace trade fair in Germany and Europe.

"The UpLift flying test laboratory is a key industrial policy project for climate-friendly flying and Germany's sustainable development," said Dr. Anna Christmann,  the Coordinator for Aerospace Policy of the German Federal Government, during her visit. "I am delighted that the project operated by DLR with its technical expertise, is making progress with the support of Deutsche Aircraft. It is crucial that the laboratory is made available to all our industrial partners. This is an important strategic step towards testing measures for climate-neutral flying under real conditions."

"The development of innovative and environmentally friendly aircraft solutions, such as our new D328eco, is of key importance,” says Dave Jackson, CEO of Deutsche Aircraft. “As an OEM, we are also proud to carry out the conversion of the D328® UpLift into a flying research laboratory in our hangar. This lays the foundation for technological advancements in aviation and paves the way for eco-friendly flights." Jackson also expressed gratitude to the German Federal Government and German Aerospace Center, as well as acknowledging the support of industry partners.

The successful conversion of the D328® UpLift flight lab and launch of the CAvIA project are significant milestones in the development of sustainable aviation technologies that will enable nearly carbon-neutral flights. Deutsche Aircraft is a proud partner in this collaboration and looks forward to further cooperation with the German government and other stakeholders in creating a more sustainable future for air travel.

In 2023, Deutsche Aircraft accomplished many important milestones as we continue to set new benchmarks in regional aviation and elevate the aviation industry to new heights with our D328eco™. Let’s take a look back at how this year has shaped us.

Recognition and Resonance: Echoes of Success

This year, we have partnered with best-in-class suppliers to secure over 90% of our supply chain contracts.

We announced our first launch customer, Private Wings, and signed an LOI for the delivery of five D328eco aircraft, which will be a valuable addition to their existing fleet of D328® jets and turboprops.

Recently, we signed another LOI to deliver up to four new D328eco aircraft to an undisclosed customer to replace its ageing fleet of regional turboprops.

As we continue to expand digitally, our online presence has taken off, with over 20,000 followers now joining us on our journey. We also launched our Mandarin landing page and official WeChat account in China.

Thriving Beyond Limits: A Blueprint for Unprecedented Growth

In collaboration with representatives from Leipzig/Halle Airport, the German government and the Free State of Saxony, we broke ground at our Final Assembly Line (FAL) in Leipzig. Designed to be 100% CO2 neutral, the FAL will have a production capacity of forty-eight D328eco aircraft per year.

We made our debut at the Paris Air Show as an OEM, where we unveiled our modern, spacious cabin and future-proof cockpit with brand-new flight deck. During the event, we announced significant supplier collaborations with thyssenkrupp Aerospace, NORDAM, Liebherr, and Sasol ecoFT that will further the development of our D328eco.

In addition, we attended Aero Asia 2023 in Zhuhai, where we had the opportunity to promote the D328eco and the D328® fleet to the Chinese market.

We commenced our integration test campaign with a virtual first flight in our state-of-the-art engineering simulator, developed in partnership with Reiser Simulation Training and Garmin, the supplier of the flight deck. This new engineering simulator will provide further insights into the flight characteristics of our 40-seater turboprop and pave the way for an efficient and environmentally friendly test campaign.

In cooperation with business partners, we also hosted the 2nd AIRCRAFT Supplier Summit in Leipzig. During the conference, we recognised some of our top-performing suppliers for their contribution to our D328eco and D328® programmes at the Deutsche Aircraft Supplier Awards.

Driven by a collaboration and innovation, we celebrated our three-year anniversary as an established OEM in 2023. We have successfully evolved into a team of more than 500 aviation experts from over 35 nations around the globe and have moved into a new building at our headquarters at Oberpfaffenhofen Airport this year.

Unveiling Tomorrow: Charting New Horizons

To provide further versatility for our D328eco, we obtained EASA certification for the In-Flight Operable Door (IFOD) for our D328® that will open up multi-mission possibilities.

By connecting with like-minded partners and staying committed to new ideas, we are advancing promising technology to improve sustainability standards for the aviation industry.

With the Uplift project, we’re using the D328® as a flying test bed for alternative propulsion technologies in collaboration with the German Aerospace Center (DLR), the German government and key associates within the aviation industry.

We have also completed wind tunnel testing for the D328ALPHA as we develop future propulsion systems with our partners as part of the LuFo project.

In addition, we strengthened our collaboration with Energi i Nord to boost SAF production in Northern Norway and commissioned a scientific study carried out by Ludwig-Bölkow-Systemtechnik (LBST) on the performance of Power-to-Liquids and Liquefied Hydrogen as alternative aviation fuels.

We would like to thank our clients, suppliers, investors and team members who made 2023 a meaningful and successful year for Deutsche Aircraft. We wish everyone a joyful and prosperous holiday season and a happy new year.

Now it’s time to relax, recharge and get ready to kick-start 2024: Are you ready to get on board? Are you ready for the next one?

As we approach the end of 2023, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible accomplishments we have achieved at Deutsche Aircraft this year. Together, we have made significant strides towards our common goal of revolutionising the aviation industry and I am pleased to share some of the key highlights from this last quarter:

Team Expansion: We have successfully reached our 2023 target of approximately 540+ committed aviation enthusiasts at Deutsche Aircraft. Our ability to attract top talent from the aerospace and aviation sectors worldwide is a testament to our vision and dedication.

AIRCRAFT Supplier Summit 2023: In collaboration with our business partner, the Berlin Institute Supply Chain Management, we hosted the 2nd AIRCRAFT Supplier Summit in Leipzig. This year’s summit brought together key suppliers and our team to discuss the industry's technological transformation and sustainable approaches for the next generation of aircraft. During the conference, we recognised top-performing partners for their contribution to our D328eco™ and D328® programmes with the Deutsche Aircraft Supplier Awards, and also welcomed Advanced Integration Technology/Nova-Tech Engineering to our supplier network, who will support our Final Assembly Line with fuselage sections handling and positioning.

Market Strategy: We made our debut in China with the launch of our Mandarin landing page and official WeChat account. In addition, we participated at Aero Asia 2023 in Zhuhai, where we had the opportunities to meet potential customers to give an insight on the D328eco as well as promote the D328® turboprop fleet to the Chinese market. Our sales team continues to pursue its objectives for global expansion, successfully attended conferences in the US and Canada and as well as physically attending in person the Dubai Airshow where our D328eco, as a natural replacement for an ageing global fleet of regional jets and turboprops, received a lot of attention from current and potential customers. We are witnessing a paradigm shift towards turboprops acceptance and are pleased that the US market is expressing a solid interest in our product.

Virtual First Flight: Another milestone was achieved in November with the introduction of our new engineering simulator for the D328eco. Developed in collaboration with Reiser Simulation and Training as well as Garmin, this simulator will provide valuable insights into the flight characteristics of our new regional turboprop.

Sustainable Flights: We commissioned a comprehensive study, conducted by Ludwig-Bölkow-Systemtechnik (LBST), that compares the economic and environmental performance of Liquefied Hydrogen (LH2) and Power-to-Liquids (PtL) in aviation, emphasising our commitment to sustainability and innovation.

Looking ahead to 2024, we are excited about our first test flights using Sustainable Aviation Fuels. We plan to participate in ILA Berlin and the Farnborough International Airshow, which will provide opportunities for us to meet with business partners and potential future operators. The market interest in our new D328eco continues to grow and we cannot wait to share our progress throughout the coming year. 2024 promises to be another thrilling year for us and we are looking forward to working together with you on this incredible journey.

Last but not least, we have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with an undisclosed customer for the purchase of up to four D328eco aircraft, which will replace an ageing turboprop fleet. This agreement marks a significant milestone for Deutsche Aircraft as it solidifies the company’s position in the sub-50-seater category and serves as a testament to the global demand for new regional aircraft.

We are grateful for your continued support as we shape future aviation trends and also the history of Deutsche Aircraft. I wish you a joyous holiday season.

Best wishes,

Dave Jackson
CEO, Deutsche Aircraft

WESSLING, 13 December 2023 – Deutsche Aircraft have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with an undisclosed customer for the purchase of up to four state-of-the-art D328eco aircraft, which will replace an ageing turboprop fleet. This agreement marks a significant milestone for Deutsche Aircraft as it solidifies the company’s position in the sub-50-seater category and serves as a testament to the global demand for new regional aircraft.

The technologically advanced D328eco offers exceptional performance capabilities, making it the first choice for regional operators in the turboprop segment who are looking to replace an ageing fleet of regional jets and turboprops. Its ability to operate in challenging weather and infrastructure conditions, including extreme heat and sub-zero temperatures, sets it apart from other aircraft in its class. In addition, the D328eco's short take-off and landing capacity (STOL), outstanding economics and significant CO2 reduction contribute to its appeal.

Anastasija Visnakova, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Deutsche Aircraft, is thrilled about the increasing interest in the D328eco. “The aircraft's ability to operate in challenging environments – including short, unpaved runways and remote destinations – makes it a reliable, capable and efficient solution for regional operators,” Visnakova remarks. “On top of that, the D328eco offers the best economic and environmental advantage in its class. We recognise that regional connectivity is an important lifeline for many communities around the globe and Deutsche Aircraft is honoured to support this mission and contribute to regional operations.”

Deutsche Aircraft maintains its commitment to providing regional connectivity in the most efficient, cost-effective and sustainable way possible. The company's dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction has cemented its position as a reliable partner in the aviation industry.

Deutsche Aircraft commissioned LBST to compile a comprehensive study comparing the economic and environmental performance of Liquefied Hydrogen (LH₂) and Power-to-Liquids (PtL) in aviation. The study is focused on domestic production of electricity-based Sustainable Aviation Fuels (e-SAF) in North America and Europe, while also taking North Africa and the Middle East into account as export regions. The results complement concept studies at aircraft level with the fuel supply perspective of Sustainable Aviation Fuels.

Results of the study highlight that LH₂ has the potential to undercut PtL production costs if there are higher demands from airlines. Fuel production costs for PtL and LH₂ show similar orders of magnitude for small-scale applications such as regional airports. While LH₂ can offer cost advantages over PtL at scale due to efficiency and liquefaction economics, it requires significant infrastructure investments and novel aircraft technologies. PtL, on the other hand, necessitates only marginal upgrades to existing infrastructure and aircraft systems.

According to the frameworks employed in the analysis, in terms of greenhouse gas emissions well-to-wake, PtL and LH₂ show comparable results. Moreover, the use of PtL and LH₂ demonstrate substantial benefits in terms of non-CO₂ effects according to current scientific understanding.

The study also emphasises the importance of reducing certain aviation fuel constituents, such as aromatics and sulphur, to benefit both the climate and local air quality. For this reason, a dedicated fuel standard (“non-drop-in”) with zero aromatics is currently under development to minimise non-CO₂ effects and pollution. Due to the long lifetime of aircraft, the massive scale-up of drop-in SAF is a crucial element to mitigate the climate impact of the existing fleet. At the same time, aircraft and engine OEMs must continue their efforts into hydrogen research. Further hydrogen technology maturation at the aircraft level will enable a complete end-to-end view when comparing Liquefied Hydrogen and Power-to-Liquids in terms of operating costs and specific primary energy demand.

Patrick Schmidt, Senior Project Manager at LBST, commented on the research, stating, the real credit of our work is to take a genuinely comparative approach between LH₂ and PtL as aviation fuel, allowing for an apples-for-apples comparison in terms of costs and greenhouse gas emissions. Our sensitivity analysis allowed us to build a cost corridor, giving a feel for the potential variance of future cost estimates. Thus, we hope to provide guidance to the whole aviation ecosystem and policymakers about the benefits, challenges, and needs for a timely, sustainable, and robust energy transition in aviation."

Sofia Capito, Managing Director LBST, added: “We have leveraged our extensive expertise in PtX techno-economics and life-cycle analysis to assess the supply side of Liquefied Hydrogen and Power-to-Liquids. This additional piece complements previous studies that we conducted on PtL and LH₂. The relevance and topicality were reflected by a diverse stakeholder advisory group comprising industry actors, academia and environmental NGOs which shows that PtX is finally in the focus of aviation.”

Dave Jackson, CEO at Deutsche Aircraft, emphasised the significance of objective information in decision-making. “The independent findings confirm our product strategy,” he reflects. “In the short to mid-term, switching to 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuels, particularly Power-to-Liquids, is the best option to reduce environmental impact. Our D328eco^TM will be compatible with 100% non-drop-in Sustainable Aviation Fuels, offering substantial reductions in pollution and climate impact as quickly as possible. When it comes to hydrogen, we continue our research and technology efforts, knowing that to operate commercial hydrogen aircraft, the industry must take a giant leap forward regarding technology maturity, infrastructure, regulations and economics.”

Regina Pouzolz, Director Sustainability at Deutsche Aircraft, says that, “The study delivered the essential puzzle piece to achieve an objective and holistic evaluation of technology and design options for our next aircraft. PtL is the best choice to minimise aviation’s climate impact now and in the future.”

The study “E-SAF: Techno-Economics of PtL and PtH2”, is available here: https://en.lbst.de/publikationen/Techno-Economics-of-PtL-and-PtH2-2023/

Deutsche Aircraft welcomes the use of the study, with respect to the stated copyright terms.

Wessling, 29 November 2023 – The Deutsche Aircraft team successfully completed its integration test campaign with a virtual first flight in the brand-new, state-of-the-art engineering simulator. This simulator has been developed and built in partnership with Reiser Simulation and Training as well as Garmin – the supplier of the flight deck – and will provide further insights into the flight characteristics of the innovative 40-seater turboprop.

This is a key milestone for Deutsche Aircraft in the development of the D328eco. The engineering simulator will allow the flight test team to perform an early evaluation of systems, cockpit ergonomics and aircraft behaviour, which will serve as a baseline for overall customer feedback. This feedback will help the team to design the D328eco so it will correspond better to customer expectations as well as enable early risk mitigations.

“The introduction of the first engineering simulator is an important milestone in the development of the D328eco,” says Nico Neumann, COO at Deutsche Aircraft. “This device shows, once more, what is possible with a shared vison, strong partnerships and good collaboration. It clearly demonstrates our capability at Deutsche Aircraft to design and built complex simulation systems.”

“This device is a fundamental element of our test strategy for the D328eco,” adds Tim Otte, Director of Flight and Integration Tests. “It provides early testing capability with the pilot in the loop, and as such, helps to ensure early system maturity. For our flight test activities, it will pave the way for an efficient, safe and environmentally friendly test campaign.”

Modelling Tomorrow: Flight Simulations as Architects of Progress at Deutsche Aircraft

Flight simulators have traditionally been associated with pilot training, but at Deutsche Aircraft, their role extends far beyond honing pilot skills.

"While flight simulations offer a range of capabilities without actual aircraft operation,our main objective is to expedite results for pilots and design teams,” explains Yigit Sahin, Flight Simulation Engineer at Deutsche Aircraft.

The genesis of flight simulation dates back to 1929 when Edward Albert Link invented the first simulator, which offered a safer, more cost-effective approach to pilot training.

Today, full flight simulators provide a realistic training environment, enabling pilots to practice critical manoeuvres essential for real-world operations. Moreover, at Deutsche Aircraft, the engineering simulator has evolved into a catalyst for modelling, testing and innovation, playing a pivotal role in the development of the new 40-seat turboprop, the D328eco®.

The Crucial Role of Flight Simulators

Three types of simulators are integral to the development process at Deutsche Aircraft:

- Full Flight Simulators (FFS)

- SIMZERO desktop simulator

- TZERO engineering simulator

While FFS meticulously replicate specific aircraft, the latter devices focus on modelling and testing performance during the development stage.

Underscoring the value of bridging the gap between simulator and aircraft, Sahin states that “We aim to ensure our pilots are intimately familiar with the cockpit environment to minimize any surprises during actual flight."

Flight Simulators in Design and Development

At Deutsche Aircraft,a paradigm shift is underway. "Design is often thought to precede testing, but we're endeavouring to alter this industry mindset,” Sahin declares.

The TZERO engineering simulator allows the design department to evaluate new concepts, enhancements and modifications before physical construction begins.

Sahin's role as a liaison between the Flight Physics department and the simulator supplier is pivotal as he oversees the implementation of various flight models, ensuring they align with the real aircraft's performance.

"By providing test pilots with modelled avionics deck options, we expedite decision-making and optimise design efforts,” he says, highlighting the impact of modelling on efficiency.

Flying Towards Sustainability: Simulators and the Environment

Deutsche Aircraft is committed to environmental sustainability, aligning with the 1.5°C targets of the Paris Agreement. The sustainability of the D328eco hinges on material selection, aerodynamics, fuel efficiency and fuel type. Flight simulators play a critical role in minimising actual flights, thereby reducing the aviation industry's carbon footprint.

"The higher the simulator's accuracy, the fewer flights we'll need for testing, resulting in amore sustainable operation,” Sahin asserts, underlining the importance of simulator accuracy in achieving sustainability goals.

Shaping Tomorrow: The Future of Flight Simulation

Looking ahead, Sahinen visions a dynamic future for flight simulation. He anticipates integration with artificial intelligence, enabling advanced anomaly detection and proactive alerts. Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality could immerse pilots in hyper-realistic environments, enhancing their situational awareness.

Moreover, computer vision-based intelligent aviation, precision autopilot systems and the potential for fully autonomous transport aircraft are poised to revolutionise the aviation landscape.

As we navigate the horizon of possibilities, one thing is certain: in the dynamic field of engineering simulators, the potential is limitless.

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Zhuhai, 23 November 2023 – Deutsche Aircraft has made its debut at one of China’s prominent aviation events, Aero Asia 2023, which takes place from 23–26 November. As regional flights play a vital part of the transportation network in China, the German aircraft manufacturer aims to provide sustainable regional connections with the D328® legacy aircraft and the new D328eco®, the 40-seater sustainable turboprop. According to market forecasts, the Chinese aviation market will require 20% of the world’s commercial aircraft in the next 20 years.

D328eco aims to support sustainable regional aviation in China

The outstanding flight characteristics and versatility of the D328eco allows it to access destinations with short and unpaved runways, in a variety of weather conditions. This will open up new route possibilities for businesses and people who rely heavily on regional aviation across China. The D328eco will also facilitate sustainable regional flights with the lowest fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions on the market. This aircraft is designed to operate on 100% SAF Power-to-Liquid (PtL),which can reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 95%.

Comfort comes first on the shortest of routes

An integrated Garmin Companion™ flight deck, brand new PW127XT-S engines and a comfortable and quiet cabin make the D328eco turboprop ahead of its time: an innovative and robust aircraft which offers maximum comfort for passengers and flight crew. These features set the D328eco apart as the most efficient, modern and sustainable regional aircraft in its class.

Ryan Ding, China Regional Director at Deutsche Aircraft shares his insights on the Aero Asia airshow. “The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) is trying to encourage general aviation operators with a maximum limit of 30 passengers to handle short regional routes. This is a perfect match for our D328® legacy aircraft as well as our D328eco in the next phase, ”he says.

“Aero Asia is a great opportunity for us to introduce the D328eco regional turboprop to the Chinese market while building solid relationships with industry partners. Deutsche Aircraft are pleased to be in Zhuhai to witness the latest developments in China’s aviation industry. Additionally, with the launch of our official WeChat account and Chinese website, we will become more accessible to the market.”

At the 2nd AIRCRAFT Supplier Summit, held on November 7-8, 2023, Deutsche Aircraft developed an influential presence with industry partners.  

The Summit took place close to the location where the Final Assembly Line (FAL) of the new D328eco® which will be built at Leipzig/Halle Airport. Some of the key topics from the event included:

• Shaping Future D328eco Aircraft Supply Chains
• Sustainability from Slow Seller to Bestseller
• Equipping the Factory of the Future

Deutsche Aircraft and industry partners join forces to shape the aircraft supply chain for the D328eco

As the event's host, Maximilian Fahr, Vice President Supply Chain at Deutsche Aircraft, welcomed industry partners and emphasised the importance of a robust supply chain in the aviation industry, as well as the critical role of creating an efficient ecosystem with suppliers.

During the panel on Shaping Future Eco Aircraft Supply Chains, our COO, Nico Neumann, discussed Deutsche Aircraft's ambition to become an industry flagship and explained how the OEM contributes to technology-enabled supplier collaboration by aiming to become a leader in sustainability and innovation in the aviation industry, with collaborating like-minded partners supporting Deutsche Aircraft's mission.

Regina Pouzolz, Director of Sustainability at Deutsche Aircraft, emphasised the importance of sustainability in the development of the D328eco, which will use Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF),followed by a transition to near zero-emission flying by exploring alternative propulsion systems that will shift aviation towards more carbon neutrality.

During the Equipping the Factory of the Future panel, Sebastian Böhnl, Director of Infrastructure & Digitalisation at Deutsche Aircraft, offered his thoughts on the future of manufacturing.  As the Final Assembly Line will become a one-of-a-kind manufacturing hall with an automated production line, the D328eco's construction will be facilitated. According to Böhnl, the next generation of holistic factory planning and digitalized process flows will be critical in the manufacturing flow.

One of the highlights of the summit was the awards ceremony which took place on the first day. The awards to recognised suppliers that are going the extra mile in their collaboration with Deutsche Aircraft. The following suppliers won in their respective categories:

Sustainable Excellence Partner for the D328eco programme: Pratt and Whitney Canada.

Best Engineering Services Supplier for the D328eco programme: Umlaut Engineering.

Best Supplier In-Service Support category: PMG Precision Mechanics

Best performer for the D328ecoprogramme: in 2023 Aciturri

New supplier on board for the Final Assembly Line

AIT/Nova-Tech Engineering was announced as the supplier for Fuselage Sections Handling and Positioning as well as Aircraft Transport and Positioning at the Final Assembly Line in Leipzig, where the D328eco will be manufactured. This agreement marks another milestone for the Deutsche Aircraft team.  

A fantastic opportunity for continuous collaboration

Overall, the 2023 AIRCRAFT Supplier Summit was a unique opportunity to network with decision-makers across the industry and a valuable forum for face-to-face discussions with strategic partners and suppliers.

Over two days, participants shared critical insights into building resilient supply chains, championing sustainability and harnessing the potential of technology.

Deutsche Aircraft continues to fuel inspiration for sustainable regional aviation by establishing strong relationships with industry partners to create a robust supply chain network.

Leipzig, 09 November 2023 – During the AIRCRAFT Supplier Summit, Deutsche Aircraft welcomed a new supplier. Advanced Integration Technology/Nova-Tech Engineering (AIT/NTE) has been selected to support the Final Assembly Line with Fuselage Sections Handling and Positioning, as well as Aircraft Transport and Positioning.

With this new deal, AIT/Nova-Tech Engineering will support the Final Assembly Line at Leipzig/Halle airport, where the 40-seater D328eco regional turboprop will be built. AIT/Nova-Tech is one of the largest providers of aerospace automation, mechanisation, and tooling. As Deutsche Aircraft builds the factory of the future with innovative manufacturing capabilities, it is essential to collaborate with the industry leader in constructing well-integrated automation production processes.

Experts in aerospace tooling and the aerostructures industry’s most experienced designer, manufacturer, and integrator of automated conveyance, positioning, and joining systems, AIT/NTE, is serving as Deutsche Aircraft’s industrialisation partner for the D328eco. Utilising its engineering core competency and vertically integrated manufacturing capabilities AIT/NTE is providing flexible and reliable equipment and tooling for Deutsche Aircraft’s Leipzig production facility.

Maximilian Fahr, Vice President of Supply Chain at Deutsche Aircraft, remarks, “We are constructing the factory of the future, and our suppliers are critical to our success. Deutsche Aircraft is pleased to formalise a deal with AIT/Nova-Tech in Leipzig to set important groundwork for our Final Assembly Line, which will incorporate integrated solutions into our production processes."

Advanced Integration Technology/Nova Tech Engineering Director Business Development Europe, Herve Grosdemange, states: “By providing AIT/NTE’s industry-leading factory solutions through this strong partnership with Deutsche Aircraft, we are pleased and honored to be the supplier of the D328eco Final Assembly Line’s automation industrialisation.”

Key partners awarded for their contributions to the D328eco® and D328® programme ‍

‍Leipzig, 08 November 2023 – During yesterday's Leipzig-based 2nd AIRCRAFT Supplier Summit, Deutsche Aircraft recognised suppliers for going the extra mile with a special awards ceremony. The OEM collaborates with domestic and international suppliers who are essential for the development of the D328eco, the new 40-seater turboprop, and the in-service D328 legacy aircraft. Suppliers were grouped into different categories and assessed based on their capabilities and performance during 2023.

Maximilian Fahr, Vice President of Supply Chain at Deutsche Aircraft, said, “We appreciate the opportunity to honour the best of our suppliers and strengthen our commercial ties. Our suppliers are essential for the success of our product.”

The selection of candidates was based on two main factors: initiative and technical proficiency. The initiative criteria, accounting for 60%, took precedence due to the current project phase, while technical capabilities made up the remaining 40%.

And the winners of Deutsche Aircraft Supplier Awards are . . .

Sustainable Excellence Partner for the D328eco programme: Pratt & Whitney Canada. The focus was this year on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and P&WC has supported time to market with excellence.

Best Engineering Services Supplier for the D328eco programme: Umlaut Engineering, which had the biggest value generation impact on the program, supported by a high sustainability rating.

Best Supplier In-Service Support category: PMG Precision Mechanics was honoured for their aftermarket support, high delivery performance, flexibility and quality.

Aciturri was selected as the best performer for the D328eco programme in 2023 in terms of earned value management a significant key performance metrics, as well as strategic alignment as a partner.

Leipzig, 07 November 2023 – Deutsche Aircraft kicked off the 2nd AIRCRAFT Supplier Summit in Leipzig today. The primary goal of the summit is to discuss implementation options with suppliers, with an emphasis on the crucial role of procurement.

The AIRCRAFT Supplier Summit brings together key suppliers who will shape the future of aircraft supply chains. We have invited next-generation aircraft manufacturers doing business in Leipzig and around the world to discuss the industry’s technological transformation, with the aim of adopting a sustainable approach to developing new concepts for all stakeholders for the next generation of aircraft.

An effective supply chain is critical for the production of the D328eco, the world’s most advanced turboprop, and for the region of Saxony. All manufacturing will take place at the Final Assembly Line at Leipzig/Halle Airport, which will have a production capacity of 48 aircraft per year as the airport develops into an important aviation hub with a strong air logistics infrastructure.

90% of suppliers for the D328eco are on Board

Deutsche Aircraft, which expects to put the D328eco into service by 2026, has completed nearly 90% of its supply chain agreements and is moving on to preparations for aircraft manufacturing.

Maximilian Fahr, Vice President Supply Chain at Deutsche Aircraft, remarks, “Our theme for this year’s AIRCRAFT Supplier Summit is Digital, Green and Sustainable. We are striving to drive technological transformation for long-term sustainability, notably in aviation supply chain and procurement, and this initiative will support the entire aviation environment around Leipzig/Halle Airport. This summit will establish the framework for sustainable and innovative supply chain concepts. Delegates will discuss how these concepts can be implemented in collaboration with suppliers and how this can benefit the broader aviation ecosystem. The participation of 200 suppliers will ensure exciting, in-depth discussions.”‍

Nico Neumann, Chief Operations Officer at Deutsche Aircraft, adds, “Since its inception, Deutsche Aircraft has dedicated itself to being the industry's flagship for innovation and leading the transition to a more sustainable future. Our dedication to fresh ideas, cooperation and connecting with like-minded partners will contribute to the realisation of our mission. We are especially excited to be in Leipzig today where our climate neutral Final Assembly Line will be located.”

The supplier selection for the D328eco is part of the sustainability goals at Deutsche Aircraft, and as an OEM, the parts used to make the aircraft must align with our objective towards a more climate neutral air travel.

On the second day of the event, Deutsche Aircraft will present the Supplier Summit Awards, based on the UN Sustainable Development Goals, to recognise the exceptional performance and capabilities of our industry partners.

Toulouse/Munich, 16 October 2023 – Deutsche Aircraft and Latecoere announce the appointment of Latecoere as strategic supplier of doors for the 40-seater D328eco regional turboprop, a platform that is accelerating the aviation industry’s transition towards lower emissions.  

Through this build-to-print contract, Latecoere will manufacture all six doors for Deutsche Aircraft’s D328eco regional turboprop for the duration of the programme. This will include the passenger door, service door, cargo door, two emergency doors and hatch door. The group will leverage its industrial footprint in Europe to supply Deutsche Aircraft’s production facility in Leipzig, Germany. Prior to manufacturing, Latecoere’s engineering office in Toulouse, France, will support the 2D-to-3D design phase. The first doors will be delivered to Deutsche Aircraft by mid-2025.

Greg Huttner, Group CEO of Latecoere, states that “Deutsche Aircraft and Latecoere share the same ambition for sustainable aviation. Building on a strong heritage and next-gen innovations, the D328eco will meet its challenges and as a tier 1 partner we are extremely proud to contribute to its journey with our leading door expertise and capabilities.”

Maximilian Fahr, Vice President Supply Chain at Deutsche Aircraft, remarks that "Doors are intricate and essential components of aircraft construction and Latecoere's track record and outstanding position in the door market are major assets for our D328eco programme. With this contract we are one step closer to finishing a fully robust supply chain that satisfies our operational efficiency criteria and supports our long-term sustainable strategy with the inclusion of Latecoere to our industrial partner portfolio.”

Munich, 04 October 2023 – Deutsche Aircraft recently completed an extensive wind-tunnel testing campaign for the D328ALPHA technology demonstrator. The D328ALPHA is a one-off modification to an existing D328® airframe. The objective of this programme is to evaluate, develop and flight-test promising technologies that will reduce aviation emissions, such as electric propulsion, fuel cells and liquid hydrogen storage.

The successful completion of the wind tunnel test campaign marks an important milestone for future flight. This test was conducted in the context of the LuFo VI-I (Luftfahrtforschungsprogramm) Civil Aviation Research programme and is partially funded by the German Federal Ministry of Economics and Climate Action (Bundesministerium für Wirtschaft und Klimaschutz or BMWK). With the LuFo VI, the BMWK is striving to develop a sustainable, economical and efficient air transport system of the future.

The wind tunnel test aims to validate next-generation propulsion systems

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The objective of this powered-model test was to validate the overall aerodynamic integration of a next-generation electric propulsion system that is being developed with our project partners. This 9-week campaign evaluated various combinations of propulsive power, stability, control and performance parameters over the expected flight envelope. The outcome of this test confirms prior analysis conducted using state-of-the-art Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and will allow Deutsche Aircraft to refine an engineering flight simulator.

The D328ALPHA was also presented at the E2FLIGHT Emission Free and Electric Flight Conference in September 2023, which was organised by the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and University of Stuttgart. Chief Engineer for Future Projects at Deutsche Aircraft, Riaan Myburgh, presented the latest developments for the D328ALPHA demonstrator at the conference.

As we wrap up the third quarter of 2023, I am pleased to announce that we have accomplished significant goals for our company and want to take this opportunity to thank the Deutsche Aircraft team for their unwavering dedication to our common purpose. I would like to share some of our most recent achievements, on the corporate and business front. 

Our team keeps growing, and we have surpassed our goal of more than 500 passionate aviation professionals at Deutsche Aircraft. We continue to attract the best talent from the global aerospace and aviation sectors and are working towards 600 team members by the end of 2023.

Following the success of the Paris Air Show in June, we signed a number of supplier contracts and have confirmed 90% of the supply chain for our D328eco®. The latest agreements are with ASE S.p.A. for the AC Primary Power Generation and Distribution System, Satys Cabin for the design and production of interior fittings and Latecoere, who will manufacture the six doors for the D328eco.  

In August, we announced a new alliance towards climate-neutral aviation with energy and industry partners in Northern Norway. We are collaborating with Energi I Nord (North Energy Cluster), Bodø Airport Development Company (BLU) and other aviation industry stakeholders on how the supply, demand and production of near carbon-neutral synthetic aviation fuels could be ramped up for regional operators in Northern Norway. 

During the last quarter, we also opened our 500-square-metre Logistics Centre in Leipzig, which is ready to welcome the parts for our D328eco. This new logistics space is located 10 minutes from our Final Assembly Line, where construction will begin soon. 

At the Friedrichshafen wind tunnel facilities, we recently completed extensive testing for our D328ALPHA technology demonstrator. The intention of this powered-model test was to validate the overall aerodynamic integration of a next-generation electric propulsion system that is being developed with project partners. The 9-week campaign evaluated various combinations of propulsive powers, stability, control and performance parameters over the expected flight envelope. The outcome of this test confirms prior analysis conducted using state-of-the-art Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and will allow Deutsche Aircraft to refine an engineering flight simulator. 

Saving the best news for last, Deutsche Aircraft took part in the Nationale Luftfahrtkonferenz 2023 (German National Aviation Conference) in Hamburg this week. Together with the German Aerospace Center (DLR), German Government and other German aviation industry partners, we unveiled the much-anticipated D328® UpLift aircraft which will serve as a flying test laboratory for future developments in air transport.  

Preparations for the UpLift aircraft began in August, two months after we became the official OEM partner for the German Aerospace Center (DLR) under the governmental Uplift programme. The journey continued with pilot simulator training for the D328 aircraft that facilitated the first flight from Munich's Oberpfaffenhofen Airport to Hamburg.  

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz joined our executive management team in front of the aircraft before the conference began, along with Dr. Robert Habeck, the Federal Minister of Economics and Climate Action, Dr. Volker Wissing, Federal Minister of Digital and Transport, Dr. Anna Christmann, Federal Government Coordinator for German Aerospace Policy, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Anke Kaysser-Pyzalla, Chair of the DLR Executive Board, Dr. Michael Schöllhorn, President of BDLI, Jost Lammers, President of BDL, and Oliver Luksic, Parliamentary State Secretary to the Federal Minister for Digital and Transport. The high level of interest underlines the significance of Deutsche Aircraft for the German government.  

The continued dedication of the entire Deutsche Aircraft team fuels our collective drive toward innovation and sustainability. Thank you once again. Let us continue to make aviation history together!

Best regards,

Dave Jackson
CEO, Deutsche Aircraft

Hamburg, 25 September 2023 - At the National Aviation Conference 2023 in Hamburg, Deutsche Aircraft, in cooperation with the German Aerospace Center (DLR), the German Aerospace Industries Association (BDLI) and the German government, presented the D328 turboprop flying test bed in its new, distinctive Uplift livery. The D328, an integral part of many regional airline fleets, is now also a pioneer for alternative propulsion technologies for a more environmentally friendly aviation future.

The Uplift programme exemplifies the shared vision of the future of aviation and the industry's collaboration towards the aviation paradigm of climate-neutral flying. The D328 UpLift aircraft will become a major beacon of innovation, reflecting the commitment to environmental protection and ground-breaking advances in the aviation sector.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz met the management of Deutsche Aircraft, the Federal Minister of Economics and Climate Action, Dr. Robert Habeck, Dr. Volker Wissing, Federal Minister of Digital and Transport, Dr. Anna Christmann, the Federal Government Coordinator for German Aerospace Policy, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Anke Kaysser-Pyzalla, Chairman of the DLR Executive Board, Dr. Michael Schöllhorn, President of BDLI, Jost Lammers, President of BDL, Oliver Luksic, Parliamentary State Secretary to the Federal Minister for Digital and Transport and Carsten Spohr, CEO of Lufthansa Group in front of the aircraft at the National Aviation Conference in Hamburg.

This year's National Aviation Conference is about aviation's journey towards climate neutrality. The D328 Uplift will serve as a catalyst for research into alternative propulsion systems and help the industry find environmentally friendly solutions for aviation. Furthermore, the aircraft's versatility and efficiency are a perfect match for the Uplift initiative.

Dave Jackson, CEO of Deutsche Aircraft, states, "We are honoured to take part in this important event where Deutsche Aircraft will make a significant contribution to shaping the future of the aviation industry and supporting the government's efforts to achieve sustainable and near carbon-neutral aviation."

Nico Neumann, COO Deutsche Aircraft, remarks, "Deutsche Aircraft is the Type Certificate Holder of the D328 family. We are very proud that our aircraft, the D328-100 mod 20, has been selected by DLR as the flying test laboratory for the Uplift Programme. This recognition is not only a milestone for the industry, but also a symbol of Deutsche Aircraft’s commitment to enhance future technologies towards climate-neutral flying."

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Velbert/Weßling, 17 August 2023 – German OEM Deutsche Aircraft is showing support for pilots from the German Aerospace Center (DLR) who will be flying the D328 UpLift aircraft by offering simulator training at Simulator Training Solution (STS GmbH) based in Velbert.

The journey of the UpLift aircraft continues with pilot training for the D328 type aircraft ahead of the Nationale Luftfahrtkonferenz (German National Aviation Conference), which will take place in Hamburg on 25 September 2023.

As the big day approaches, preparations are currently underway for the initial changes to the D328 UpLift aircraft. The livery transformation is taking place in the hangar in Oberpfaffenhofen Airport and training has begun for the DLR cockpit crew who will be flying the aircraft from Munich’s Oberpfaffenhofen Airport to Hamburg, where the new livery will be unveiled to the public.

Conny Cornelius, Test Pilot at Deutsche Aircraft, remarks, “It is a fantastic opportunity to be able to work with colleagues from DLR to support future developments in aviation. It is time to show them the capabilities of the D328 Turboprop as the perfect flying testbed as part of the UpLift programme.”

Jan Hünerfeld, CEO of STS GmbH, states, “We are proud to be part of aviation history with our state-of-the-art D328 simulator training centre. Here, we can support DLR pilots in their training for the UpLift aircraft which will be part of German aviation history. At STS, we want to continue to support Deutsche Aircraft’s mission, as well as becoming a key service provider to D328 aircraft operators.”

Since 2020, Deutsche Aircraft has collaborated with Simulator Training Solution, which is the sole simulator training centre for operators of the D328 family of aircraft.

With the support of Deutsche Aircraft, the DLR pilots will continue flight training at the Research Airport in Braunschweig.

Bodø/Munich, 07 August 2023 – German aircraft manufacturer Deutsche Aircraft, Energi i Nord (North Energy Cluster) and Bodø Airport Development Company (BLU) have met with energy and aviation industry stakeholders to address how the supply, demand and production of near carbon-neutral synthetic aviation fuels could be ramped up for operators in Northern Norway. As airlines need to ensure their future fuel supply comes from sustainable sources, fuel manufacturers need offtake guarantees and the regulatory framework to secure the immense investments necessary to build a whole new fuel ecosystem. To take immediate action to reach climate goals, the collaboration between industry and politics is essential. Northern Norway is a vast and secluded territory which has a network of 26 regional airports that are critical for the region’s transportation infrastructure. The region also has an excess of low-cost renewable energy that is key for e-fuel production, which makes it the ideal testing ground for the development of new concepts to reach climate-neutral aviation.

Cooperation towards sustainable e-fuels

Deutsche Aircraft and Energi i Nord have been collaborating successfully for more than a year to promote e-fuels using industrial CO₂ point sources as a first step, which will later be substituted by direct air capture powered by abundant renewable energy to minimise lifecycle emissions.

By exploring flight testing opportunities and studying ground infrastructure requirements to produce e-fuels, this partnership paves the way towards Northern Norway becoming a national and international leader in the enormous transformation aviation is facing. The cluster also collaborates with the Lofoten – The Green Islands 2030 project, an ambitious roadmap to set a scenic and untouched island community on a course to becoming fully carbon neutral, including its tourism sector. Short-haul routes within the Lofoten archipelago will be among the first to be operated with alternative fuels.

Deutsche Aircraft is developing its new regional 40-seater turboprop, the D328eco®, that will be compatible with 100% SAF including e-fuels. Powered by state-of-the-art technologies, it will achieve near carbon-neutral flights from its entry into service, with low operating costs and excellent performance. Beyond the D328eco, Deutsche Aircraft is also studying alternative propulsion technologies based on hydrogen for future aircraft programs.

Energi i Nord is comprised of industrial players such as major wind and hydropower producers, technology suppliers and electrochemical companies, as well as members of the aviation sector and local communities that are determined to take the lead energy transition.

It has several ongoing projects in green aviation and has cooperated closely with aviation industries in Germany, France and Iceland. At present, Energi i Nord is conducting a study mapping the potential for the use and production of e-fuels in Northern Norway and in Iceland in cooperation with Icelandic partners.

Regina Pouzolz, Director Sustainability at Deutsche Aircraft, highlighted the importance of PtL fuels for reducing the climate impact of aviation. “Aviation’s climate impact depends on both CO₂ and non-CO₂ effects, both of which are minimised by PtL. Climate change asks for substantial and fast solutions in the aviation sector. While hydrogen aircraft may be an interesting solution in the farther future, our climate cannot afford to wait for these technologies to achieve the maturity that is required to perform safe and cost-efficient flights. PtL fuels that have been produced from renewable energy can bring the CO₂ balance to almost zero. They reduce the impact of contrails, and they improve local air quality because they naturally do not hold aromatics and produce less soot. At the same time, changes to the aircraft and infrastructure are reasonable. Enabling the already efficient D328eco turboprop to fly with any type of SAF is the biggest and fastest leap on our path to climate-neutral aviation.”

“We have the best possible ecosystem in Northern Norway to make low carbon e-fuels a reality," says Anders Tørud, Project Manager Green Aviation at Energi i Nord. “E-fuels and hydrogen produced from renewable energies are the most promising scalable solutions to significantly reduce emissions in aviation, one of the most hard-to-abate sectors. To make it happen, it is essential to bring down production costs through scale. We have the right ecosystem in Northern Norway to do so,” he adds.

According to Marc Siegel, Senior Manager Marketing at Sasol ecoFT, “Size matters. The bigger the plant, the more efficient it is. Integrated processes and industrial facilities further increase efficiencies and therefore the sustainability of novel technologies,” he says.

“It is crucial to find, solve and develop more solutions to reduce emissions in the aviation industry. Our partnership with Deutsche Aircraft and Energi i Nord is our answer, in the short and medium term, as well as long term,” says Elnar Holmen, CEO Bodø Airport Development Company.

Le Bourget, July 2023 – Deutsche Aircraft and the aerospace Italian company ASE S.p.A. announced at the Paris Airshow their new agreement for the AC Primary Power Generation and Distribution Systems for the D328eco, the brand new regional 40-seater sustainable turboprop from Deutsche Aircraft.

The AC electrical system from ASE mainly consist of two 25 kVA AC generators, two Generator Control Units (GCU) and two Primary Power Distribution Unit (PDU).

The AC Generators are attached to the propeller gear box which provides the appropriate RPM. Each generator is controlled by its generator control unit and outputs the power to the two-channel primary power distribution unit. From there, power is supplied to all AC loads via the secondary power distribution system.

“We’re proud to announce that we’ve been selected as the AC electrical system supplier for Deutsche Aircraft’s new turboprop D328eco the innovative fixed wing civilian aircraft which is designed to have a lower environmental impact, with comfort and efficiency”, says Giuseppe D’Alò, ASE Chief Executive Officer. “Our AC electrical system will complement the D328eco by being very light, compact and silent. ASE is honoured to collaborate with Deutsche Aircraft on such an innovative project. This partnership aligns with our philosophy of care towards the environment and our love for technology”, says Fausto Cosentino, ASE Chief Business Officer.

Giuseppe D’Alò,ASE Chief Executive Officer. “Our AC electrical system will complement the D328eco by being very light, compact, and silent. ASE is honoured to collaborate with Deutsche Aircraft on such an innovative project. This partnership aligns with our philosophy of care towards the environment and our love for technology”, says Fausto Cosentino, ASE Chief Business Officer.

Maximillian Fahr (Deutsche Aircraft Vice President of Supply Chain) highlighted the importance of the agreement with ASE “ASE is our ideal partner that is prepared to support the D328eco Program with strong project management and integration capabilities across the entire lifecycle of the aircraft. Furthermore, the regional capabilities are a key factor in the supplier selection process along product reliability, and the collaborative approach and experience will ensure compliance with the Program schedule and ramp-up.”

As we come to the close of the second quarter of 2023, I want to take this opportunity to once again express my thanks to all of the hard work within the Deutsche Aircraft team and for your consistently high level of commitment to our shared mission. In the past quarter, we have again achieved important goals for our company. I am proud to look back briefly at our recent achievements.

Our growing team is now comprised of over 500 experts who share a common enthusiasm for aviation. We are moving towards our goal of nearly 600 employees by the end of 2023 and we continue to attract talent from the aviation and aerospace industries around the world.

In April, a large part of our team moved into our new headquarters at Oberpfaffenhofen Airport. The Deutsche Aircraft sign now also shines at the main entrance to the airport together with the other brand marks that have been there already - our footprint in Oberpfaffenhofen is growing visibly in line with our company!

A sign of the good corporate culture in our company is the award we received as one of the "Top Companies 2023" from Kununu, Germany's leading career site. This award is a confirmation of our high commitment to collaboration, respect and diversity in the workplace, as well as our open feedback culture. We all know that a good company culture needs to be nurtured and we will continue to further invest in our people.

As the D328eco^TM program progresses, in May, we had two truly important and pivotal announcements and events, that were widely noticed by the aviation society, our partners and customers. We broke the ground for our final assembly line at Leipzig/Halle Airport with prominent participation from politicians and industry leaders. What we consider as the finest assembly line in the world will be the birthplace of our new D328eco aircraft. In conjunction with this, we welcomed our first European launch customer, Private Wings, on the tarmac in front of one of their existing D328® aircraft. Private Wings currently operates nine D328® Turboprops and one D328® Jet. The letter of intent for the delivery of up to five brand-new D328eco is a good indication of our customers' confidence in Deutsche Aircraft and our D328eco programme. This is not just a first LOI announcement, but also a great endorsement from our current operator.  We are truly proud to see the commitment to the aircraft type and us, as an OEM, from one of the biggest D328® Turboprop operator.

At the Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) in Hamburg, we signed an agreement with ACRO to supply Deutsche Aircraft with their Series 9 economy class seats for the D328® family, which includes the new D328eco and also as an option for retrofit on in-service D328® turboprops and jets.

Last week we returned from the Paris Air Show 2023. It was fantastic to make our mark on one of the world's most prestigious aviation events together with our industry partners and to position our D328eco in the market. With our state-of-the-art cockpit mock-up and an insight into our new cabin design we were able to demonstrate the capabilities and comfort of our aircraft to our customers. Also, our agreements with key suppliers made headlines, including our end-to-end material supply chain solution with thyssenkrupp Aerospace and NORDAM for the D328eco engine nacelles. We announced our collaboration with Liebherr Aerospace for the air management system and with Sasol ecoFT to offer the D328eco's customers an access to sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). In terms of suppliers, we have now confirmed almost 90% of our agreements and are getting closer and closer to flying our D328eco aircraft.

Certainly, a highlight for Deutsche Aircraft is the sale of the D328® aircraft and becoming the OEM partner for the German Aerospace Center (DLR) in the context of the UpLift project. Together with DLR and the German government, we were able to make this official public announcement during the Paris Air Show. Now we can focus on transforming one of our D328® aircraft into a “flying test bed” which, over the next few years, will play a significant part in the German government´s ambition to become a world leader in future propulsion technologies research for the use of hydrogen in aviation.  The D328® thus becomes part of the German research fleet and Deutsche Aircraft will gain more international attention as a partner for innovative and sustainable flying.

Our collective drive towards innovation and sustainability is fuelled by the dedication of the entire Deutsche Aircraft team. Thank you once again. Let us continue to make aviation history together!

Best Regards,

Dave Jackson

CEO, Deutsche Aircraft

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Le Bourget, 22 June 2023 – Deutsche Aircraft wrapped up a successful week at the Paris Air Show after announcing major collaborations with the German Aerospace Center (DLR), Sasol ecoFT and other important suppliers. This year, the German OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) focused on the D328eco® programme, the new sustainable 40-seater turboprop that will be 100% SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel) compatible. The Deutsche Aircraft chalet also featured a cabin and cockpit mock-up of the D328eco aircraft that will enter into service in 2026.

The week started of with major announcements, including the signing of an important agreement with the German Aerospace Center (DLR) for the D328® to be used as a flying testbed for future propulsion technologies. Deutsche Aircraft also announced a collaboration with South African chemicals and energy giant Sasol ecoFT on SAF Power to Liquid (PtL) and other partnerships with key suppliers who play a pivotal role in the development of the D328eco.

From the heart of Bavaria to Paris

As a German aircraft manufacturer with roots in Bavaria, Deutsche Aircraft organised a special gathering with a Bavarian theme. This event offered journalists and industry partners a chance to network with the Deutsche Aircraft team to learn more about the D328eco product and take an exclusive tour of the cabin and cockpit mock-up which highlighted the aircraft’s latest technologies.

Anastasija Visnakova, Vice President Sales & Marketing at Deutsche Aircraft, was delighted about the outcome of the Paris Air Show and the connections made at this year’s event. “After Covid-19, it is fantastic to be back in Paris to catch up with the developments in the industry. We are here to build solid relations with industry partners and we did so successfully throughout this week with our announcements about major collaborations. We also kept the industry updated with our progress on our D328eco programme.”

Paul Wawruszczak, Head of Marketing at Deutsche Aircraft, expressed gratitude to his team who made the show possible. “The Paris Air Show is one of the most prestigious aviation events where we pulled out all the stops and leave our mark as a brand and we are extremely satisfied with the outcome as we had a huge interest to our chalet and the D328eco cabin and cockpit mock ups. It is always an honour to be part of this event where you have the opportunity to join the wider aviation family and find out about current trends in the industry. This year, we also presented a cabin mock-up of our D328eco, where visitors could get to know more about the on-board experience.”

Now getting ready for the upcoming shows

Deutsche Aircraft team is now getting ready for the upcoming global aviation events to continue the promotion of the D328eco and build lasting relationships with important business partners from around the globe.

Le Bourget, 20 June 2023 - Deutsche Aircraft has won the public tender with the German Aerospace Center (DLR) for the step-by-step conversion of a Dornier 328 Turboprop into a flying testbed. The procurement, conversion and use as a flying testbed is part of the UpLift project for research into technologies for the use of hydrogen in aviation. By converting the D328, a classic regional aircraft, into a flying testbed, a bridge will be built between research and practice.

DLR will act as the project manager for UpLift. Deutsche Aircraft is one of the project partners and will contribute its expertise as an aircraft manufacturer. The plan is to test pioneering propulsion, fuel and system technologies under real flight conditions in order to accelerate research and development. The funding for 2023 to 2025 is part of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection (BMWK) aviation research program LuFo Klima, which is how the German government is supporting the aviation industry on its way to CO2 neutrality and climate compatibility.

German OEM for the future of German aviation

The D328, EASA's large aircraft class ("CS25"), provides the ideal platform for demonstrating new components and systems under test since it has a wide stand-up cabin which allows for various modular options. Aside from the space, the turboprop boasts a 30,000-foot flight ceiling, an upgradeable flight deck, the option to convert to 100% SAF, and strong field performance. The overall high performance and robustness of the aircraft, the expandable cockpit and, last but not least, the possibility of testing SAF (sustainable aviation fuel) and, in the future, hydrogen or other sustainable energy sources in flight, make the D328 the perfect tool for the research project. Future system technologies, fuel cells, fuel systems and their integration will play an important role here.

Furthermore, the OEM Deutsche Aircraft brings in the technological expertise and know-how to support DLR's research activities in UpLift. Deutsche Aircraft is also a partner to science and industry in other LuFo projects, working together to pave the way to climate-compatible aviation. Those relationships are an important component of the German aviation ecosystem, also in terms of developing chances for future aviators.  

Dr. Jasmin Eberharter, Head of Research and Technology programs at Deutsche Aircraft, emphasizes: “The path towards climate-neutral flights is a joint effort between the whole aviation ecosystem. With UpLift, aviation experts have a significant opportunity to join forces across science and industry, further contributing and accelerating sustainable aviation.”

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Anke Kaysser-Pyzalla, Chairwoman of the DLR Executive Board, says, "The new D328 UpLift research aircraft will perfectly complement DLR's research fleet as a flying test laboratory for hydrogen technologies and pave the way for a new generation of climate-compatible aircraft in the regional aircraft class. This new fleet member, in close partnership with the aviation industry, the air transport industry as well as SMEs and start-ups, gives DLR the opportunity to test disruptive approaches in the development of new propulsion systems including hybrid-electric concepts based on hydrogen technologies and novel fuels up to the flight test stage."

The D328 is particularly suitable for assessing innovative propulsion technologies in flight due to its specific design characteristics. In addition, the D328 is used worldwide for regional commercial flights with usual propulsion technologies, providing a wealth of reference values for the evaluation of new technologies. Dave Jackson, CEO of Deutsche Aircraft, emphasized what this agreement meant for the future developments: “The UpLift Programme and the D328® as a test platform is an important step towards paving the way for the future of the aviation industry. The D328 as a flying testbed platform will be crucial in laying out the groundwork for needed technological advancements.” Nico Neumann, COO of Deutsche Aircraft, is proud to have a D328 in DLR's fleet. He states that: “We are fully committed to support as an OEM the integration of emerging technologies, to move aviation and technologies towards climate neutral flights.”

Le Bourget, 20 June 2023 - Deutsche Aircraft and Sasol ecoFT have further strengthened their partnership to support the use of 100 % Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), specifically 100% Power to Liquid (PtL), in regional aviation. At the Paris Air Show 2023, they have signed an LOI that will provide Deutsche Aircraft’s D328eco customers access to the SAF expert team from Sasol ecoFT as soon as sufficient production capacity has been ramped up.

Sasol ecoFT aims to offer access to SAF blends, certified according to ASTM. Later to be followed by 100% SAF as soon as standards evolve. This approach reflects Sasol ecoFT and Deutsche Aircraft’s vision to offer scalable SAFs to the market with the lowest environmental impact possible Sasol ecoFT leverages Sasol’s extensive Fischer-Tropsch proprietary technology, and catalysts to produce sustainable fuels via the Power-to-X process.

Deutsche Aircraft’s D328eco customers will have the option to contact Sasol ecoFT directly to explore the supply of SAF

The D328eco aircraft operators will be given priority access to the SAF experts from Sasol ecoFT. SAF will remain a scarce resource, and with this arrangement, Deutsche Aircraft will support its customers to secure SAF to reduce the environmental impact.

Dr. Regina Pouzolz, Head of Sustainability at Deutsche Aircraft, shared her insights about this agreement with Sasol ecoFT. "As Deutsche Aircraft, we are proud to be a part of a sustainable aviation ecosystem, and with our D328eco aircraft in conjunction with SAF supplied by our partner Sasol ecoFT, our customers will be able to significantly reduce their CO2 emissions, improve local air quality and reduce the climate impact from contrails. By providing demand certainty to investors and SAF producers we are supporting the SAF ramp-up vital to reduce costs."

"The agreement signed today provides our customers and future D328eco operators with a one-of-a-kind opportunity to obtain Sustainable Aviation Fuel, including Power-to-Liquids, directly from Sasol ecoFT. Regional airlines often do not have access to the SAF market. With this agreement we are bringing sustainable solutions to this market segment, which plays a major and, often, the solo role, in essential connectivity" says Anastasija Visnakova, Vice President of Sales and Marketing.

Helge Sachs, Senior Vice President Sasol ecoFT, “Within this great partnership, we share the same ambition of climate neutral aviation. Today’s agreement is another step into the right direction by supporting an often-overlooked segment of the market with SAF. We want to make fuelling up with SAF a normal thing like the world has got accustomed to lead-free gasoline many years ago.”

Marc Siegel, Senior Manager Marketing & Sales Sasol ecoFT, “Regional aviation is an important market segment. With this agreement we support decarbonization of this sector of the aviation industry. We understand that these flights are needed and want to keep remote locations including their small communities connected and provide essential services. The combination of the D328eco with our SAF can make a difference on this level as well.”

Power-to-Liquids are a scalable and long-term solution for reducing aviation’s climate impact and improve local air quality. They are produced by combining green hydrogen and CO₂ taken directly from the air (“Direct Air Capture”) or from biogenic or industrial point sources. The production process can be set up to have the same properties as conventional kerosene: high energy density at low volume, verified safety and distribution via the established infrastructure. Furthermore, these fuels naturally contain no aromatics and no sulphur, reducing contrails and improving local air quality. Deutsche Aircraft aims to make the D328eco ready for 100% Power-to-Liquids containing zero aromatics.

Le Bourget, June 2023 - Deutsche Aircraft GmbH has announced that it has selected Liebherr to supply the air management system for the D328eco aircraft, a platform that is accelerating the aviation industry’s transition towards lower emissions.  

Liebherr-Aerospace Toulouse SAS, Toulouse (France) will design, supply and service the integrated air management system for the D328eco. The system meets the efficiency, weight, and performance requirements of this modern aircraft, offering cabin comfort and optimised power consumption.

“Liebherr-Aerospace is a reputable partner in the aviation industry not only with many other airframe OEMs but also a close partner for years with Deutsche Aircraft. On the D328eco program, we are pleased to have Liebherr join us, also as the supplier for the integrated air management system and thereby further reduce development times. This latest contract is based on and will further strengthen the reliable partnership we have on the flap and spoiler actuation system and reach another important milestone for the D328eco program. Deutsche Aircraft, as the only German OEM for regional aircraft, is teaming up with the finest suppliers of the industry to have the most competitive Turboprop in service. The cooperation with Liebherr perfectly fits in that picture.”, says Maximilian Fahr, Vice President Supply Chain at Deutsche Aircraft.

“We are very pleased that in addition to the flap and spoiler actuation system, we are now also able to supply the integrated air management system. Our centre of competence for air and thermal management systems in Toulouse will provide a modern air management system for the D328eco”, says Alex Vlielander, Chief Customer Officer, Liebherr-Aerospace & Transportation SAS.

Le Bourget, 20 June 2023 – Deutsche Aircraft and NORDAM signed a contract today at the Paris International Air Show for the design, development, industrialisation and manufacturing of the D328eco nacelles. NORDAM’s extensive experience in aerostructures and integrating nacelle systems – including certifications to meet stringent regulatory requirements – is ideal for the D328eco, a 40-seater turboprop aircraft that is leading the way to more sustainable regional flying. NORDAM will develop and manufacture the D328eco engine nacelles at their facilities in the U.S. and Mexico.

“This partnership with NORDAM is based on their strong capabilities and a relationship of trust and cooperation at all levels between both organisations,” says Maximilian Fahr, Vice President Supply Chain at Deutsche Aircraft. “It’s people that make products and when motivation levels are high, amazing things can happen. With the choice of NORDAM, we have taken another big step towards securing the supply chain of the D328eco. We are investing in a common vision of more sustainable flying.”

“We are excited to partner with well-established aviation pioneer Deutsche Aircraft to manufacture this key component for their eco-friendly aircraft platform,” NORDAM CEO Meredith Siegfried Madden said. “NORDAM has a rich tradition of innovation, and this program aligns with our goals to be at the forefront of supporting environmentally sustainable solutions for aerospace like the D328eco.”

Le Bourget, June 19 2023 - Deutsche Aircraft and thyssenkrupp Aerospace announced today that they are entering into a long-term frame agreement for an integrated end-to-end supply chain solution for material management for the D328eco® aircraft. thyssenkrupp Aerospace, a division of thyssenkrupp Materials Services, will be responsible for supplying materials, from planning to sourcing, processing to warehousing, as well as logistics and distribution to Deutsche Aircraft and its European subcontractors.

There are three components to this materials management solution. The first is a digital control tower that thyssenkrupp Aerospace and DAG have co-created to manage the entire ecosystem and to coordinate all material flows, from sourcing to distribution. The second part of the solution sees thyssenkrupp Aerospace take full responsibility for the procurement of all materials. The third part is a materials hub and distribution center, that enables thyssenkrupp Aerospace to deliver materials just-in-time to the production lines of the multiple sub-contractors of Deutsche Aircraft. The entire solution has been built from the ground up to enhance end-to-end transparency of the D328eco aircraft supply chain, ensure a seamless, on-time supply of materials to Deutsche Aircraft and its sub-contractors, and overall, to boost the resilience of the entire supply chain, a major concern in the aerospace and defense industry.

Patrick Marous, CEO of thyssenkrupp Aerospace, comments: “We are delighted to enter into this long-term agreement with Deutsche Aircraft and their subcontractors. The solution we developed is an object lesson in the benefits of co-creation. We spent one-year consulting with Deutsche Aircraft to assess their supply chain for raw materials. And because we built this from the ground up together with the team from Deutsche Aircraft, they get exactly the efficient, transparent, and resilient materials supply chain they need to ensure uninterrupted production of their D328eco aircraft. Our global network of certified mills and our materials expertise further ensure Deutsche Aircraft gets the quality they need.”

Maximilian Fahr, Vice President Supply Chain of Deutsche Aircraft, highlights the trusting relationship the two partners developed over the one-year consulting period as a major factor in their decision to enter into this long-term agreement. He says: “Materials is key for manufacturing, and so is reliability and risk management. We got to know each other well and built a trusting relationship. The demonstrated capabilities of managing a complex network of capacities as well as the supply chain management skills to build an end-to-end solution from scratch, convinced us in partnering on this supply chain journey. These assets will support the D320eco program entry and prepare the ramp-up phase and long-term material provision.”

Sustainability is central to the design and manufacture ethos of Deutsche Aircraft, especially in the D328eco. This supply chain solution was created with that in mind. Maximilian Fahr, says: “Resilience and reliability are essential to our materials supply chain and so is sustainability. By working closely together with the team from thyssenkrupp Aerospace, we developed synergies that will lead to reduced scrap. We increase material utilization through the demand consolidation handled by thyssenkrupp Aerospace and that plays an important role in reducing our overall carbon footprint and helping us on the way to more sustainable production.”

As part of the strategic further development "Materials as a Service", thyssenkrupp Materials Services is focusing, among other things, on the consistent expansion of its service portfolio. thyssenkrupp Aerospace is taking another important step in this direction with this partnership with Deutsche Aircraft. As one of the world’s leading supply chain management and Third-Party Logistics (3PL) service providers in the market for raw materials, thyssenkrupp Aerospace offers end-to-end solutions to build resilient and digital supply chains. The company’s service portfolio is modular and scalable, encompassing all development stages from designing to managing and operating the supply chain for its customers.

Hamburg, 06 June 2023 – Acro Aircraft Seating – a leading passenger seat manufacturer for commercial airlines – has been selected to supply Deutsche Aircraft with their Series 9 economy class seats for the D328 family of aircraft, which includes the new D328eco and a retrofit option for the proven D328 turboprop and D328 jet.

The new Acro Series 9 seats will provide a comfortable on-board experience for passengers flying with the D328eco as well as the D328. Ideal for airlines travelling regional and short-haul routes, these seats have a wider seat pitch, a robust yet lightweight design, require less maintenance and are more reliable.

Nico Neumann, Chief Operations Officer at Deutsche Aircraft, spoke about the choice of Acro seating for the D328 family: “Acro Aircraft Seating has been selected based on a multifunctional assessment of innovation, sustainability, quality and economic factors. Besides serving our D328eco in a baseline 40 PAX configuration, the selected seats will be available as a retrofit option for our D328 turboprop and D328 jet, enhancing the passenger experience of our operating aircraft. This selection is a significant step within the D328eco development schedule, as we are now completing the interior selection for the cabin, cargo and cockpit. I look forward to a long-term relationship and many happy customers.”

Welcoming the contract announcement, Neil Cairns, Chief Executive of Acro Aircraft Seating, said, “We are delighted at this latest endorsement for our versatile Acro Series 9, particularly as Deutsche Aircraft is so widely respected in the industry, not only for its commitment to the very best in engineering design, quality and innovation, but also for its far-sighted sustainability policies.  The Acro Series 9 delivers on every aspect, providing quantifiable and tangible benefits alongside elegant aesthetics and supreme comfort. It’s a perfect partnership and we’re excited about contributing to the ongoing success story at Deutsche Aircraft.”

Greater comfort with a sustainable touch

The Acro Series 9 seats are designed to provide maximum comfort for passengers on short-haul flights, with convenient amenities such as USB sockets for charging devices. These seats are lightweight and contribute to the sustainable aviation mission of Deutsche Aircraft and the D328eco by reducing the cabin weight and reducing fuel burn as a result. Deutsche Aircraft is committed to collaborating with key suppliers who prioritise the use of innovative and environmentally friendly materials and finishes.

Weßling, 30 May 2023 – In March 2020, Deutsche Aircraft and Simulator Training Solution GmbH (STS) established a successful collaboration to provide simulator training for the D328® turboprop and jet. STS is a key service provider for Deutsche Aircraft, offering our current D328® operators state-of-the-art simulator training services.

On the strategic partnership with STS, Nico Neumann (COO Deutsche Aircraft GmbH) remarks, “For Deutsche Aircraft, the collaboration with STS is a powerful tool to support our customers operating the D328® worldwide. STS has an innovative approach that is fully in line with our corporate strategy and customer focus, up to the goal of offering sustainable complete solutions in the regional aircraft market.”

Jan Hünerfeld (CEO of STS GmbH) states that, “With our state-of-the-art D328® simulator training centre, we are looking forward to a sustainable and successful regional aviation future. At STS, we want to play a key role in Deutsche Aircraft’s sustainable aviation mission, especially with how we carry out operations at our simulator training centre.”

Sustainable all the way

In line with Deutsche Aircraft’s strategy to provide sustainable solutions in regional aviation, STS will install solar panels on the rooftop of the training centre, allowing the simulators to be powered by up to 70% solar energy. In the next phase, they plan to completely power the D328® Simulator Training Centre with 100% renewable energy.

STS is also thinking outside the box when it comes to the travel arrangements for flight crews, as there are electric cars available for their disposal to transport trainees to and from the training establishment.

About Deutsche Aircraft

Deutsche Aircraft is a German aircraft manufacturer built on the heritage of aviation pioneers that continues to propel the aviation industry forward with innovative solutions. Supported by a highly skilled and passionate team of international engineers and aviation experts, Deutsche Aircraft is developing the most advanced regional aircraft on the market: the D328eco™. As type certificate holder and service partner for existing D328® (both prop and jet) operators worldwide, the company is uniquely positioned to complement the existing fleet with this next-generation aircraft.

Deutsche Aircraft applies the latest technologies and best practices to ensure the highest levels of reliability, efficiency and sustainability for the D328eco. As a strategic partner for the sustainable development of regional air transport, Deutsche Aircraft is working with key players in the industry to achieve climate-neutral flights.

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Leipzig, 16 May 2023 – Today, the management team of Deutsche Aircraft and stakeholders and representatives from Leipzig/Halle Airport, the German government and the Free State of Saxony met for the ground-breaking ceremony of the aircraft assembly line for the new 40-seat turboprop aircraft, the D328eco.

“At Deutsche Aircraft, we take great pride in the construction of our state-of-the-art and climate-friendly final assembly line,” says Nico Neumann (COO, Deutsche Aircraft). The assembly line will be built and operated in compliance with the best industry practices and sustainability principles.

“This is a key milestone in our D328eco programme and we are pleased to take this step following our programme objectives,” adds Dave Jackson (CEO, Deutsche Aircraft).

The German government has acknowledged the significant role of Deutsche Aircraft in the aviation industry. “For the German government, Deutsche Aircraft is a strategic partner for the sustainable development of the aviation industry. The D328eco is an important industrial policy project for the German government,” says Dr. Anna Christmann (Federal Government Coordinator of German Aerospace). “The planned use of 100% SAF in the D328eco as a market-ready option is a key milestone for the aviation industry worldwide. In the coalition agreement, we set ourselves the goal of making Germany a pioneer in climate-neutral aviation.”

The strategic orientation of Deutsche Aircraft and Leipzig/Halle Airport with the support of the Free State of Saxony makes Leipzig an attractive location for the assembly line. The region has an excellent infrastructure, sufficient space and a qualified workforce. In addition, Saxony has a long tradition of aircraft construction, which Deutsche Aircraft can now build on.

Michael Kretschmer (Prime Minister of the Free State of Saxony) remarks that “The establishment of Deutsche Aircraft at Leipzig Airport is a great success and underscores Saxony’s attractiveness as a business location. For the first time since reunification, a final assembly line for aircraft construction is being built in the new federal states. As an aircraft manufacturer, Deutsche Aircraft will strengthen the aerospace industry in Saxony and complement the excellent research facilities, supplier companies and maintenance and conversion experts in the Free State. Up to 350 new jobs will be created at Leipzig Airport with state-of-the-art and, more importantly, climate-friendly production conditions.”

The assembly line will be built on approximately 62,000 square meters and will have a production capacity for forty-eight D328eco aircraft per year. In addition to the production hall, a hangar will be built for aircraft delivery, along with a logistics centre and an administration building with parking spaces.

According to Götz Ahmelmann (CEO of Mitteldeutsche Flughafen AG) “Deutsche Aircraft’s new assembly line at Leipzig/Halle Airport will make our airport one of the beacons of sustainable aviation. The D328eco sets the standard in terms of climate-friendly production and environmentally friendly flying."

“The assembly line is designed to be completely CO2-neutral,” explains Sebastian Böhnl (Director of Infrastructure and Digitalization, Deutsche Aircraft) as he outlines the energy concept for the whole production facility. “We will produce around 750 kW of solar power with a photovoltaic system on the roof. From the use of heat pumps, the optional expansion with energy storage, green spaces on the roof and the wood-concrete hybrid construction, to electric charging stations for cars and bicycles, this innovative investment is well-integrated into a sustainable production ecosystem.”
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Background information German Aircraft Final Assembly Line

100% climate-friendly

CO2-neutral energy concept – use of renewable energy

Solar power through photovoltaics on the roof (750 kW/p.a.)

Use of efficient heat pumps

Energy storage can be optionally integrated: smart grid batteries or hydrogen fuel cell

Green deck on all buildings

Wood-concrete hybrid construction for administration building

Electric charging stations for cars and bicycles using energy from PV

100% digital

Paperless production throughout all processes

Automated and driverless transport systems

Automated parts and tool storage

3D model-supported production with the possibility of AR (augmented reality)

100% modern + lean

Newly designed, efficient manufacturing tools (e.g. for the fuselage)

Use of energy-efficient battery tools

Optimal process flows (digitally designed and supported)

Production line tailored to D328eco

New generation integral factory planning

Glass factory with the possibility for customers to visit the production line

Expansion options planned for the site

Key specifications

62,000 sqm site (about twice the area of the Lincoln MemorialReflecting Pool)

Final Assembly Line (FAL) and Flight Readiness Hangar (FR)

Logistics Centre (LSC) and Administration Building

Production capacity for forty-eight D328eco aircraft per year

250–350 new employees

Investment: >100 million EUR

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Leipzig, 16 May 2023 – Deutsche Aircraft and Private Wings are pleased to announce that they have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) today for the delivery of five D328eco aircraft – the brand new 40-seater sustainable turboprop regional airliner from Deutsche Aircraft. The collaboration was announced during the ground-breaking ceremony for the D328eco final assembly line at Leipzig/Halle Airport.

The D328eco will facilitate sustainable regional connections as it offers the lowest fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions on the market. This aircraft is designed to operate on 100% SAF power-to-liquid (PtL), which can reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 95%.

The outstanding flight characteristics and versatility of the D328eco allow it to reach destinations with short and unpaved runways in challenging weather conditions. This will open up new routes to connect businesses and people. An integrated Garmin Companion™ flight deck, brand-new PW127XT-S engines and a comfortable and quiet cabin make the D328eco turboprop ahead of its time: an innovative and robust aircraft which offers maximum comfort for passengers and flight crew. The combination of these features sets the D328eco apart as the most efficient, modern and sustainable regional aircraft in its class.

“We see the D328eco as a great addition to our existing fleet of ten Dornier 328® aircraft. The D328eco is a natural step forward for Private Wings as we look to grow our business and fleet and seek the most operationally efficient yet sustainable solution to meet the needs of the market,” says Peter Gatz, (CEO of Private Wings).

Private Wings, an owner-operated airline based at Berlin Schoenefeld and Ingolstadt Airport, specialises in corporate shuttles as well as charter flights for events and sports teams. Private Wings currently has a fleet of nine Dornier 328 turboprops, a Dornier 328 jet and a Beech 1900D.

“On the occasion of the ground-breaking ceremony for our final assembly line, it gives us great pleasure to announce that Private Wings, an established German operator and current operator of the D328® family of aircraft, is our first customer for the new D328eco. This partnership is not only an important milestone, but also a clear sign of our long-standing operator's commitment to the D328® fleet,” remarks Anastasija Visnakova, (Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Deutsche Aircraft). “Deutsche Aircraft will continue to support the long-term business goals of sustainable growth and versatile operations at Private Wings,” she adds.
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About Deutsche Aircraft

Deutsche Aircraft is a German aircraft manufacturer built on the heritage of aviation pioneers that continues to propel the aviation industry forward with innovative solutions. Supported by a highly skilled and passionate team of international engineers and aviation experts, Deutsche Aircraft is developing the most advanced regional aircraft on the market: the D328eco. As type certificate holder and service partner for existing D328® (both prop and jet) operators worldwide, the company is uniquely positioned to complement the existing fleet with this next-generation aircraft.

Deutsche Aircraft employs the latest technologies and best practices to ensure the highest levels of reliability, efficiency and sustainability for the D328eco. As a strategic partner for the sustainable development of regional air transport, Deutsche Aircraft is working with key players in the industry to achieve climate-neutral flights.

‍Munich, May 12 2023 Deutsche Aircraft is pleased to announce the appointment of Hendrik Brand as the new CFO for Deutsche Aircraft Group companies in Oberpfaffenhofen near Munich. Hendrik will lead and manage the group’s Finance & IT organization, working closely with all internal and external stakeholders to support the growth and development of the company.

Prior to his appointment, Hendrik served as Group CFO for Satair in Hamburg - a leader in aviation spare parts distribution and as CFO for EFW in Dresden - an OEM supplier for composite panel and Pax-to-Freighter conversions. As Vice President of Finance, he also gained major insights into the overall Airbus OEM business in Toulouse.

“Deutsche Aircraft has the proven product to accelerate the transition on a realistic timeline to more sustainable regional flights,” says Dave Jackson, Chief Executive Officer of Deutsche Aircraft. “Our business case, including the respective positioning of the after-market business, where Hendrik has years of experience, will be crucial for the long-term development of the company and gaining the trust of our shareholders.”

Newly appointed Chief Financial Officer of Deutsche Aircraft Group, Hendrik Brand, remarks, “I like being part of a company that builds something new and growing our business in the aviation industry. Timing is of the essence and having the right people on board will finally make the difference for our success. I personally hope that we can continue to deliver according to our promises and keep the mindset open to reflect market dynamics and expectations.”

Hendrik is a sports enthusiast and plays hockey in his spare time. Having undertaken leadership goals for global teams in several European countries, Hendrik brings 20 years of international aviation experience to this position. He has personal experience working with start-up companies over the last 12 years and looks forward to jointly develop the culture of Deutsche Aircraft.

As we conclude the first quarter of 2023, I would like to express my gratitude to the Deutsche Aircraft team for your continued dedication and hard work. Together, we are growing our organisation and I am excited to share some significant updates with you.

Our team continues to expand and we have reached a milestone of 450 professionals. We aim to recruit an additional 150 specialists in 2023, building a team of 600 by the end of this year. Seeing the immense interest and high-quality applications has been truly encouraging.

To accommodate our continued growth, a large portion of our team has moved into a brand-new, state-of-the-art building. We are currently in the process of refurbishing other offices to provide the additional space necessary for our growing divisions to collaborate and innovate effectively.

Our commitment to nurturing company culture remains a top priority. In collaboration with BLACKBOX OPEN, our HR department has conducted several leadership training sessions to emphasise the key traits we value in our employees. Beyond professional expertise, we want to foster and promote personal accountability, a can-do attitude, and a test-and-fail approach (without compromising safety) to drive innovation and growth.

We are also proud to announce a significant development in the multi-role capabilities of both the D328® and the D328eco™. In February, we received certification for the In-Flight Operable Door (IFOD), which adds value for our customers and expands the horizons of the D328® and D328eco as an MR platform. The IFOD modification also includes the installation of secure handles, attachment points for harnesses and stores, and non-slip flooring to ensure the safety of crew members.

Sustainability in aviation is also taking off, and we are delighted to witness an increasing focus on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and realistic technologies from regulatory and industry perspectives, with early impact potential to decarbonise regional aviation. Deutsche Aircraft is thrilled to be part of this critical transition, as it confirms our strategy to engineer the D328eco for 100% SAF compatibility and Power-to-Liquid (PtL). Of course, we will continue to investigate other fuels and novel propulsion concepts.

As we prepare for the groundbreaking ceremony at our Final Assembly Line in Q2, which will be a significant milestone for our programme, we continue to engage with our Industry Advisory Board to ensure our product development aligns with market needs. Encouragingly, we have received substantial interest in the D328eco™ from both lessors and airlines.

In addition to fine-tuning our organisational structure to reflect our growing team and focusing on accelerating product delivery, we are gearing up for pivotal announcements throughout the year. Stay tuned for more exciting developments!

Once again, thank you for your unwavering commitment to Deutsche Aircraft's mission. Together, we will continue to drive innovation, sustainability, and success in the aviation industry.

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Best Regards,

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Dave Jackson

CEO, Deutsche Aircraft

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Weßling, 21 February, 2023

Commissioned by NL EASP AIR and AeroRescue Pty Ltd, Deutsche Aircraft completed a major development in the multi-role capabilities of the D328®with the EASA Certification for the unique In-Flight Operable Door (IFOD). Originally conceived and operated by AeroRescue, who since 2009 use a Civil Aviation Authority of Australia STC, Deutsche Aircraft obtained the EASA Supplemental Type Certification (STC no. 10081145) for the IFOD, issued on 27 January, 2023.

Based on this, existing IFODs can be modified to meet EASA conformity, and the cargo door of any existing D328® can be replaced with an EASA approved IFOD. The IFOD modification also includes the installation of secure handles and attachment points for harnesses and stores, as well as non-slip flooring to ensure the safety of crew members.

“At Deutsche Aircraft, we are pleased to have achieved the certification,” says Nico Neumann, COO of Deutsche Aircraft, about this latest development. “This is not only good for special mission operators of our D328® but also an important potential add-on to our new multirole D328eco™.” According to Pieter Voeten, CEO of NL EASP AIR: “The EASA IFOD certification enables EASP AIR to bring this additional aerial drop capability to the D328®, which enhances what is already an excellent and reliable aircraft used in maritime patrol.” “This project is the culmination of dedication of all parties involved: Deutsche Aircraft, AeroRescue, and NL EASP AIR who will be the first to operate the IFOD using the EASA certification. This significant capability will enable the D328® to be operated in many more countries around the world in Search and Rescue or other special mission roles,” says Andy Cole of AeroRescue.

Dario Rigamonti, Chief Engineer at Deutsche Aircraft, is proud of his team for this achievement. “The EASA certification of IFOD is the result of dedication and hard work by our multidisciplinary team. This is a further step to providing practical, unique and innovative solutions to our operators, thanks to the versatility and reliability of the D328®,” he remarks.

Munich, January 27^th, 2023 - Work on the development of the D328eco^TM is going according to plan. As a result, Deutsche Aircraft continues to strengthen its Sales and Marketing team. The goal is to serve the customer in the best possible way and to provide the market with the best possible information about the new-generation turboprop aircraft "Made in Germany".

Nils Heuer recently joined Deutsche Aircraft in Oberpfaffenhofen near Munich as the new Director Sales for the D328eco^TM programme. Before coming to Deutsche Aircraft, he was responsible for sales and business development in various roles at Lufthansa Technik AG. With more than ten years of experience in the aviation industry and his market orientation he is the ideal person for this position. "The D328eco^TM is unique in the market due to its combination of efficiency, performance and sustainability," says Nils Heuer. "I'm looking forward to working with our customers to unlock the diverse operational potential of the D328eco^TM." Nils has completed an integrated Master's degree programme, with degrees in industrial engineering and aviation systems engineering (Lufthansa Technik / Technical University of Braunschweig / University of Applied Sciences Bremen). 

Christian Pürschel started at the same time as Head of Communications + PR also in Oberpfaffenhofen. Christian has a successful track record in communicating and marketing innovations and industrial products at thyssenkrupp, among others. His international experience for customer projects and the sustainability agenda rounds off his profile. "With Deutsche Aircraft's mission and the production of the D328eco^TM we will make regional air transport future-proof together with our customers and partners," says Christian Pürschel, looking ahead to his role. Christian holds a Master’s degree in economics (University of Augsburg).

Nils and Christian will both report to Anastasija Visnakova, Vice President Sales & Marketing Deutsche Aircraft.

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In 2022, Deutsche Aircraft celebrated major milestones and set new benchmarks in regional aviation.

Our commitment to new ideas and connecting with like-minded partners has ensured our message of sustainability is being heard in the international aviation community.

We obtained a trio of ISO certifications that demonstrate our commitment to the highest quality and environmental standards, and signed MoUs with the North Energy Cluster and Sasol ecoFT to develop solutions towards more climate-neutral aviation technologies.

We continued close collaborations and formed strategic new partnerships with the aim of building a network of trusted and sustainable partners to support the development of our D328eco™. We reinforced our commitment to a more sustainable aviation ecosystem during the Aircraft Supplier Summit in Leipzig in November, where we announced additions to our list of trusted partners.

We announced Pratt & Whitney Canada as our engine provider that will supply our D328eco with their latest PW127XT-S engine.

We also announced the production readiness of a new landing gear, which will be compatible with the entire Dornier D328® family, including the existing in-service fleet as well as with our new D328eco aircraft.

From a programme standpoint, we carried out a wind tunnel test campaign for aerodynamics and performed the first successful engineering test on a digital twin and physical demonstrator of the wing spar box.

We also concluded our Product Design Review phase, using feedback from potential customers and discussions with key suppliers to enhance our product through our engineering, program and supply chain teams. Our new FAL building at Leipzig Airport is making good progress, with ground-breaking scheduled for 2024.

During the recent General Assembly of the European Regions Airline Association, we announced that we have signed an MOU with ACIA Aero Leasing to further support the marketing effort on a variety of configurations for both our in-service D328 and D328eco, including passenger, multi-role and firefighting variants. 

Alongside our D328eco programme, we revealed more information on the exciting LuFo Project, which aims to demonstrate the feasibility of low and zero emission ground and flight operations using a modified Dornier 328 aircraft as a main platform. In collaboration with numerous partners, this experimental project will pave the way to testing tomorrow’s CO₂-free propulsion technologies.

Last but not least, we celebrated our second anniversary as an established OEM on December 7, which coincides with the United Nations’ International Civil Aviation Day. Looking back at 2022, we have strengthened our team with nearly 130 passionate, full-time employees, new senior executives and board members, bringing us today close to 400 employees . . . with many more to come.

We are proud to witness the significant growth our overall global footprint this year, with over 10,000 interested followers on LinkedIn, as well as increased interest during the air shows and conferences that we attended, particularly at ILA Berlin, Farnborough International Airshow in the UK and the Aircraft Supplier Summit in Leipzig.

Thank you for your contribution to our success this year.

We will continue to work hard and aim to reach even higher in 2023!

Strategic partnership for sustainable aviation .

Dubai - OHB and AFK’s joint company DAH Beteiligungsgesellschaft mbH on Thursday, December 8^th, signed an agreement to secure an important minority equity investment in DeutscheAircraft Holdings (DAH), the sole owner of Deutsche Aircraft Group companies. The investment comes from a joint venture between aerospace company OHB SE and investment company AFK Enterprise AG and will propel development of new green aviation technologies including the D328eco^®, an environmentally friendly version of the acclaimed Do328 short-haul passenger aircraft manufactured by Deutsche Aircraft GmbH. Under the agreement, the investors have the potential to acquire additional ownership up to a majority at a later point in time.

The partnership fuels progress on the D328eco and Leipzig production facilities, as well as opens opportunities for development of future aircraft variants in new international markets.

Dave Jackson, CEO of Deutsche Aircraft said: “This investment reaffirms both the strong market need for a proven regional aircraft and underpins the belief in the green aviation sector, in particular the opportunities Deutsche Aircraft’s new D328eco aircraft will offer.”

Deutsche Aircraft’s D328 series of aircraft is founded on the proud heritage of Dornier and Deutsche Aircraft is the holder of the Do328® type certificate. With new propulsion systems, latest-generation avionics and more seats, the D328eco will set new standards for environmentally friendly short-haul flying. Deutsche Aircraft is also studying a variety alternative fuel and future climate-neutral propulsion systems as part of its product roadmap. The Do328 is the last commercial aircraft to date to have been developed and built entirely in-house by a German company - and this will also be the case with the D328eco.

The equity stake in DAH is subject to approval from the German Government which is currently supporting development of the D328eco with a high-volume development cost loan and in addition, supports development of clean aviation initiatives at Deutsche Aircraft. The transaction is anticipated to close during the first quarter of 2023 following regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions.

“With this investment we are significantly strengthening our Aerospace business segment,” said Dr. Lutz Bertling, member of OHB SE’s management board. “Beyond the current project, OHB intends to develop with its partners strategically more joint business in Europe, the United States and Middle East, including beyond aviation, with first projects already under discussion in the defence and space sectors.”

“For us, this investment is another important step in diversifying our portfolio into mobility with environmentally friendly drives,” said Dr. Berthold Peikert, CEO AFK Enterprise AG.

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About AFK Enterprise

AFK Enterprise AG, based in Switzerland, the industrial arm of the AFK Kumar Family Office, operates as a private owned single-family office mandated with the preservation, management and growth of the AFK Kumar family’s wealth and assets. AFK makes strategic investments across a wide range of markets, focused on equity and growth capital. With the international outlook towards investment, AFK actively pursues and engages in abroad variety of investment opportunities in high-tech in Europe, US, Middle East, India, Asia as well as in emerging markets.

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About OHB SE

OHB SE is a German space and technology group and one of the leading independent forces in the European space industry. With many years of experience in the implementation of demanding projects, OHB SE is excellently positioned to face international competition and can offer its customers a broad portfolio of innovative products in its three business units: Space Systems, Aerospace and Digital. The company employs around 3,000 people and generates a total revenue of around one billion euros.

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About Deutsche Aircraft GmbH

Deutsche Aircraft is Germany’s new purpose-driven OEM. Founded on the heritage of aircraft pioneers, DeutscheAircraft’s new D328eco™ aircraft is being developed to deliver significant improvements in operational and maintenance costs as well as reductions in the overall carbon footprint. This is in line with its vision and strategic roadmap to support a more sustainable future for aviation. The D328eco will offer maximum flexibility being able to operate on existing aviation fuel, as well as compatible with 100% H2-PtL. The aircraft will be assembled in the paperless Final Production Line (FAL) at Leipzig/Germany. All parameters are in high demand in the current aviation environment, and we already see an increased interest in the D328eco from our potential customers and partners.www.deutscheaircraft.com

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As 2022 draws to a close, I want to sincerely thank our customers, business partners and the employees at Deutsche Aircraft for your loyalty and support.

Deutsche Aircraft celebrated its second anniversary on December 7th and our company continues to grow steadily, drawing on the heritage of Dornier and building on the expertise of the colleagues who have joined us since 2020. Our people are our most important resource, and we are grateful and proud of the accomplishments of our team.

As we all know, the only constant in this industry is change. Over the past year, Deutsche Aircraft has proven that we are capable of responding to challenging circumstances and industry needs. Despite the turbulence of the global pandemic, supply chain issues and regulatory changes, our team remains committed to maintaining the highest standards.

2022 was a very productive year for DeutscheAircraft. We signed numerous contracts with major suppliers for the D328eco™ programme, including:

In addition, we have teamed up with ACIA Aero Leasing in marketing efforts to promote the D328eco and Legacy aircraft in firefighting configurations. We have also provided continuous support to our valued operators and renewed our long-standing maintenance contracts for the in-service D328® fleet of Eagle Air and Private Wings. We are proud to be part of the reliable and robust operations of the D328® fleet across the world; time and again, this aircraft is proving itself as best in class, with one of the highest levels of reliability in the industry.

This year, Deutsche Aircraft participated in a number of international airshows and conferences, including ILA (Berlin), Farnborough Airshow (UK), ERA General Assembly (Portugal), Towards Sustainable Aviation (Toulouse), Fit for Future and the 12th Aviation Forum (Munich). We were also delighted that the Prime Minister of the German Federal State of Saxony sponsored the first Aircraft Supplier Summit in Leipzig. The presence of Deutsche Aircraft at these conferences allows us to promote the unique qualities of our aircraft and ensure that our message of sustainability is being heard in the global aviation community.

In 2023, we will continue to work hard and aim high. We are looking forward to several critical milestones, including moving to new offices in Oberpfaffenhofen and the ground-breaking ceremony for our Final Assembly Line (FAL) at Leipzig-Halle Airport. In June, we will take part in the Paris Air Show, where we hope to connect with some of our partners and future operators.

Thank you all for your contribution to our success this year. We wish you a happy and healthy holiday, surrounded by family and friends, and a fantastic new year.

Best wishes,

Dave Jackson

Deutsche Aircraft is pleased to announce the appointment of Maximilian D. Fahr as Vice President, Supply Chain, effective 01 November, 2022. Based in Oberpfaffenhofen near Munich, Maximilian will lead and manage the supply chain organisation of the company, working closely with strategic partners to ensure highest levels of quality and efficiency to accelerate the transition to more sustainable flying.

Prior to his appointment, Maximilian served as Director of Supply Chain at Deutsche Aircraft since 2020. He previously held operational and strategic positions at Airbus’ Corporate Headquarter, in China and in South Korea, including sourcing for the Tianjin A320 Final Assembly Line and as Supplier Development Director for Airbus Group Asia Pacific and is a Form 4 holder with Germany’s Airworthiness Authority (LBA).

Nico Neumann, Chief Operating Officer of Deutsche Aircraft says: “Deutsche Aircraft has the proven product to accelerate the transition on a realistic timeline to more sustainable flying in regional aviation and thus supporting global regional development. Our partners and suppliers are an integral element for our industrial set-up which will subsequently see serial-production aircraft assembly in Leipzig.”

Maximilian Fahr says: “It is a pivotal moment in which we are building a new company, transitioning to new models and incorporating disruptive technologies. I am looking forward to continuing to work with outstanding professionals, facing the reality of a post-pandemic world in which resilience and sustainability in production and operation are key.”

Maximilian brings an unrivalled international experience to this position, having lived and worked in over ten countries in Europe, Asia and the Americas. He is fluent in English, French, German, Spanish and Portuguese and communicates in Mandarin.