WESSLING, Germany - Deutsche Aircraft unveiled its first D328eco test aircraft (TAC 1) at its headquarters on the Airtech Campus in Oberpfaffenhofen, Germany, marking a key milestone in the company’s effort to bring a more efficient and environmentally sustainable regional aircraft to market.
The D328eco is an upgraded version of the Dornier 328, a regional turboprop aircraft that has been in service for over three decades. The new model builds on the Dornier platform with modern avionics, improved aerodynamics, and lower emissions.
"The rollout of our first test aircraft marks a significant achievement in the D328eco program and an important step towards our physical flight test activities," said Nico Neumann, co-CEO of Deutsche Aircraft. "This milestone represents our transition from conceptual design to practical testing and industrialization."
Deutsche Aircraft Chief Operating Officer Olaf Lawrenz said "This milestone is a testament to our team's dedication and technical expertise. Building upon the robust foundation of the Dornier 328, an aircraft ahead of its time, we have integrated modern technologies to enhance efficiency and sustainability. The roll out reflects our commitment to delivering a next-generation regional aircraft that combines proven reliability with cutting-edge advancements to meet the evolving demands of regional aviation."
Marie-Christine von Hahn, CEO of the German Aerospace Industries Association, said the event sends a strong signal: "German aviation is a global leader."
The aircraft is designed to operate in remote and challenging environments, with fuel-efficient engines and next-generation systems. Certification is targeted for late 2027, with flight testing set to begin soon.
