This year at Deutsche Aircraft was defined by transformation as our D328eco programme transitioned from the drawing board to the hangar floor. Our mission to advance the DNA of the Dornier 328 – by integrating technologies that optimise efficiency, economics and sustainability – has become a tangible reality with the launch of our first test aircraft.

As we ready the D328eco to address the complex operational needs of the global market, here is a rundown of the milestones that marked this decisive year.

TAC 1 Takes Centre Stage

Without question, the defining achievement of 2025 was the official roll out of the D328eco prototype, TAC 1. Attended by over 500 guests, including government officials and industry partners, the highly anticipated ceremony marked our aircraft’s transition from design to physical prototype. 

For the Deutsche Aircraft team, this event was more than a milestone. TAC 1 is the manifestation of our strategic vision, built on years of dedication. Witnessing the first test aircraft unveiled at our Oberpfaffenhofen headquarters was an unforgettable moment of collective pride.

Building our Future: Industrialising the D328eco

This year, we expanded our operations, opening a new office in Berlin that will enable closer engagement with decision-makers and institutions in Europe as we approach market entry.

At Leipzig/Halle Airport, tremendous progress has been made on our Final Assembly Line, which will be the production hub and heart of the D328eco. Following the laying of the cornerstone and the celebration of Richtfest, our fully digital, carbon-neutral facility is nearing structural completion and ready for fit-out.

In an industry first, Jungheinrich has integrated its PowerCube compact storage system and AutoVNA within an industrial environment, providing the highly efficient, automated logistics required for the sustainable and scalable production of D328eco aircraft.

Expanding our Global Footprint

Deutsche Aircraft significantly amplified our global presence this year, successfully scaling key production capabilities for our front and rear fuselage assembly lines in Brazil and India with partners Akaer and Dynamatic Technologies.

Following our first Supplier Summit, we accelerated our international outreach with a landmark week at the Paris Air Show, hosted the Wings of Opportunity Summit in New Delhi and cultivated partnerships at aviation events and conferences around the world.

Through ongoing dialogue and exchange with stakeholders across North America, Australia, Africa and India, we have positioned the D328eco to meet the unique operational demands of specific regional markets.

Securing the Foundation: Tier 1 Supply Chain Complete

In 2025, we finalised our entire Tier 1 supplier network and are now focused on the physical integration of these advanced systems. This robust supply base is composed of industry leaders, including Cyient Group, America Data Solutions, Aerodata, Aernnova, Hutchinson, TRIUMPH, Rasakti, Akkodis, Expleo and TEST-FUCHS — ensuring the highest standards of quality, reliability and performance are integrated into every aircraft.

Future-Forward Technology

As the D328eco transitions from design to production readiness, we are using advanced digital tools to bring every detail of our aircraft to life. In collaboration with Dassault Systèmes, we have developed a 3D virtual twin of our new turboprop. This technology is essential for supporting training and facilitating testing and certification, while offering future operators the chance to explore the aircraft like never before.

Another important milestone for the programme was the arrival of the Pratt & Whitney PW127XT-S development engines that will power TAC 1. These engines incorporate the latest innovations to deliver industry-leading fuel efficiency and time on wing, lowering operating costs and driving long-term value for customers. In addition, the new Garmin G5000 PRIME avionics suite – the first fully integrated cockpit for a CS-25 aircraft – will ensure our D328eco is a seamless addition to fleets worldwide.

This year, we also continued pushing the boundaries of aerospace technology and research. Our collaborations with the German Aerospace Center and VÆRIDION to conduct crucial tests on the D328 UpLift demonstrator will accelerate the maturation of innovative new technologies. 

600-Strong: The Global Team Behind Deutsche Aircraft

In 2025, our dedicated workforce surpassed over 600 employees representing more than 45 nationalities. The collective expertise, dedication and passion of our team are the foundation of our success as we work towards a shared vision of sustainable regional aviation.

To guide our rapidly expanding operations, we strengthened our senior leadership team with several high-level appointments this year, including:

• Ernst-Georg Schröder, Final Assembly Line Manager
• Alexander Tesch, Vice President Customer Support & Service
• Markus Hahner, Sales Director for Multi-Role Aircraft.

The Next Chapter

Looking ahead to 2026, our sights are firmly set on advancing the D328eco programme,  from the ground and system testing of TAC 1 to completing our Final Assembly Line. With our dedicated team and strong partnerships, we are confident about achieving the next milestones. 

We are also looking forward to welcoming customers at our headquarters and increasing our participation at key industry events. This growing engagement is a direct result of our expanding product portfolio and the significant market interest in the D328eco.

Our next-generation aircraft will set the standard for highly efficient, low emission short-haul air travel; a versatile solution that will strengthen and support regional connectivity across the globe.  

The next chapter is flight. Join us as we prepare to touch the sky in 2026.