Deutsche Aircraft NEWS

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.

Paying close and thoughtful attention to sustainability is increasingly becoming indispensable for all industries; moreover, it has evolved into a deliberate organisational approach set to establish long-lasting concrete corporate standards. We at Deutsche Aircraft believe that a sustainable business conduct is the cornerstone of our success, short, medium and long-term and that this gives value for the society we live in. With our new D328eco^TM aircraft we are establishing easy access to affordable, energy-efficient, cost-effective and eco-friendly aircraft, moving towards a sustainable future through reshaping the means of world travel. Our fundamental responsibility is to diminish our ecological footprint, sustainable both economically and ecologically.

Deutsche Aircraft in Sustainable Development

The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a set of 17 interconnected goals which are an urgent call for action by all countries - developed and developing - in a global partnership. There is no doubt that the entire global aviation industry has an important role to support and carry forward these goals. Deutsche Aircraft is proud to be one of the flagships of the aviation industry in integrating sustainability at the very core of its organisational structure. We constantly strengthen and reinforce our activities to promote a greater holistic perspective of sustainability and have therefore chosen to focus on eight of the SDGs where we believe our actions will have a meaningful influence and will inspire others in our industry and beyond.

These are the eight SDGs Deutsche Aircraft is focusing on:

- Quality Education

- Gender Equality

- Affordable and Clean Energy

- Decent Work and Economic Growth

- Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure

- Responsible Consumption and Production

- Climate Action

- Partnerships for the Goals

This article will highlight how Deutsche Aircraft implements three of the eight SDGs. Have a look at what our subject experts say.

Affordable and Clean Energy: Robert Schreiber, our Project Leader for Alternative Fuels, explains how Deutsche Aircraft works on how to integrate affordable and clean energy into our new aircraft, the D328eco^TM, defining Deutsche Aircraft’s aim of increasing the global use of alternative energies.

Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure: Florian Troeltsch, our Overall Aircraft Design Engineer, carries out a deep dive into our 328H2FC project, co-funded by the Federal Ministry of Economics and Climate Action (BMWK), focusing on the use of hydrogen to move towards our target of carbon-free cruise flight. Ingmar Geiss, our Senior Development Engineer, explains how Deutsche Aircraft uses innovative technologies move towards sustainable aviation.

Climate Action: Deutsche Aircraft carries out extensive research dedicated to understanding CO2 and non-CO2 emissions and appropriate measures to curtailing the climate impact caused by aviation. Fulya Keles, our Sustainable Aircraft Design and Operations Engineer, describes how Deutsche Aircraft works towards a climate-neutral future

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Deutsche Aircraft is a partner of this year's Aircraft Supplier Summit in Leipzig, the future production site of the D328eco™. This aviation industry symposium is an opportunity to build a network of like-minded partners from different business sectors, academia and politics to establish a sustainable ecosystem of the future. For the further development of the D328eco programme it is essential to grow our regional footprint.

Deutsche Aircraft is pleased to announce the selection of further key suppliers based on their time-to-market capabilities, supply chain resilience, sustainability across the life-cycle of the product and economic reality. These include: Bucher Leichtbau AG, Elbe Flugzeugwerke and Reiser Simulation and Training.

Deutsche Aircraft has selected Bucher Leichtbau AG for the galley and partitions for the D328eco cabin. The companies today signed a General Terms Agreement (GTA). Since the beginning of discussions, Bucher has shown a clear understanding of our requirements. Their decades-long know-how regarding cabin interior monuments and lightweight construction whilst being open-minded regarding innovation and the brilliant finishing quality on the product makes them the perfect partner for the galley and partitions for the D328eco.

Deutsche Aircraft and Elbe Flugzeugwerke (EFW) agreed on the supply of floor panels for the D328eco fuselage which will be designed by Deutsche Aircraft. EFW is headquartered in Dresden and therefore at proximity to Deutsche Aircraft’s future Final Assembly Line (FAL), supporting local industrial capabilities to deliver on the D328eco programme. The competence of EFW as an experienced global industry player enables Deutsche Aircraft to combine the engineering excellence of the D328® with modern manufacturing processes to achieve an attractive and competitive product.

Deutsche Aircraft is pleased to announce the cooperation with Reiser Simulation and Training GmbH [Reiser] to accelerate and proactively participate in the flight test campaign and certification for the D328eco. In direct support to this, Reiser will develop and provide the D328eco Engineering Cockpit Simulator, a fully instrumented flight deck connected to a high-fidelity aircraft simulation. The Engineering Simulator is therefore a key asset in the aircraft development programme and will provide the ability to test key system functions and aircraft characteristics in a safe and virtual environment. Reiser, based near Munich, is a leading provider of high-performance flight simulators and maintenance trainers. Deutsche Aircraft is proud of this newest development of the D328eco Engineering Simulator.