Deutsche Aircraft has unveiled the long-awaited test prototype (known as ‘TAC1’) of its new generation turboprop aircraft, the D328eco. Building on a strong legacy of German aircraft design and based on the Dornier 328 regional airliner, the D328eco promises to revolutionize the regional aircraft arena, with its increased passenger capacity and maximum range of 1,205 nautical miles (2,231km).
Originally launched in August 2019 by Deutsche Aircraft’s predecessor, 328 Support Services, the new version of the Dornier 328 will be built at the company’s final assembly line at Leipzig-Halle Airport (LEJ) in Germany, with numerous key components also being manufactured at the former Dornier site at Oberpfaffenhofen in Bavaria.
“The roll out of our first test aircraft marks a significant achievement in the D328eco programme and an important step towards our physical flight test activities,” announced Nico Neumann, Co-CEO of Deutsche Aircraft. “This milestone represents our transition from conceptual design to practical testing and industrialisation. At Deutsche Aircraft, we are proud to introduce an aircraft with the proven DNA of the Dornier 328, enhanced for better efficiency, reduced emissions, and a superior customer experience, making it an optimal choice for regional operators worldwide.”
“This milestone is a testament to our team’s dedication and technical expertise,” added Olaf Lawrenz, COO of Deutsche Aircraft. “Building upon the robust foundation of the Dornier 328, an aircraft ahead of its time, we have integrated modern technologies to enhance efficiency and sustainability. The rollout reflects our commitment to delivering a next-generation regional aircraft that combines proven reliability with cutting-edge advancements to meet the evolving demands of regional aviation.”
Meanwhile, Marie-Christine von Hahn, Chief Executive Officer of the German Aerospace Industries Association (BDLI), emphasised the significance of the rollout for the entire industry. “Innovations in the air improve our lives on the ground. Deutsche Aircraft is sending a strong signal on behalf of the entire industry: German aviation is a global leader,” she said.
More about the D328eco
The redesigned aircraft has been stretched by 2m (6ft 7in) over the original Dornier 328 to a new fuselage length of 23.3 m (76 ft), permitting it to carry up to 40 passengers, 25% more than its predecessor. In addition to an all-new cabin, the D328eco has adopted advanced avionics in the flight deck, permitting single-pilot operations in some strict regulatory circumstances and fully electronic flight charts, checklists, and other documents.
The aircraft is powered by a pair of Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127XT-S turboprop engines, which offer a 14% lower fuel consumption per passenger and produce around 22% lower emissions than its predecessor.
One of the key operational benefits of the D328eco will be its STOL (short take-off and landing) capabilities. These will allow the D328eco to operate from runways with a maximum length of just 1,028m (3,550ft) and land in a distance of just 965m (3,166ft). It will also be certified for steep runway approach of up to 5.5%, making the type capable of operating into and out of challenging airfields such as London-City Airport, which demand a steeper than average glideslope.
“The range of the D328eco (1,205 nautical miles (2,231km) covers over 98% of all turboprop flights and 95% of all regional jet flight ranges, while being capable of flying faster than any other turboprop aircraft in production,” said Deutsche Aircraft. “With a long-range cruise speed of 324 knots (372mph/598 kph) and a cruise altitude of up to 30,000ft (9,144m), the D328eco is a competitive and efficient replacement for jets with up to 70 seats,” added the company.
Adaptability is the key to success
In addition to the benefits set out above, the D328eco offers a wide range of abilities, flexibility, and adaptability for operators, says the manufacturer. The aircraft has been deliberately designed for fast turnaround times at smaller regional and municipal airports where ground equipment may be minimal. The aircraft has a forward easy-to-access passenger door with integrated steps, while also remaining airbridge compatible. Using standard airport ground servicing equipment, turnaround can be kept to a minimum time, which is key to the economics of regional aviation.
Also, in terms of adaptability, Deutsche Aircraft states that the type will be able to operate from short and narrow runways, sloped runways, hot and high operating conditions, paved and unpaved surfaces, and in strong crosswinds. The aircraft has also been designed to fly on 100% sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), making it future-proofed by the manufacturer.
In terms of passenger comfort, the typical airline operator will configure its D328eco for 40 passengers in a single-class layout with single seats on the left side of the cabin and a double seat arrangement across the central aisle. The overall cabin width is 2.18m (85.5in) and the aisle height is 1.85m (73.3in), meaning that the average passenger will not be required to bend down while passing through the cabin.
“The D328eco’s cabin is quiet and modern, featuring a roomy, stand-up aisle,” said the company. “It offers ample space for passengers, including large overhead bins for storage. With a modular galley that can potentially be equipped for hot and cold service, the D328eco can cater for all passenger needs.”
However, the D328eco has not just been designed for regional airline passenger operations, states Deutsche Aircraft. With its adaptability, the aircraft will also be ideal for use in several other key roles. With a large in-flight operable door, modular cabin layout, and quick conversion capability, the internal configuration can facilitate quick medical evacuation, deployment of paratroopers, as well as assist with aerial firefighting and other humanitarian missions.
Next steps towards certification
Following the rollout of the first test aircraft, Deutsche Aircraft is poised to start the test campaign, marking a significant step towards type certification and the aircraft’s subsequent entry into service in the final quarter of 2027.
According to the company, the development of the D328eco “is propelled by close collaboration with regulatory authorities, strategic industry partners, and a highly skilled global supply chain. These partnerships ensure that the aircraft will adhere to the highest standards of performance, safety, and sustainability.”
