Deutsche Aircraft NEWS

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.