Deutsche Aircraft is developing a new generation of turboprop that promises to be more efficient and 100% compatible with SAF, the sustainable aviation fuel.
Basically, emerging as an eco-conscious response to the world's pressing climate challenges, the D328eco represents a modernized version of the classic Dornier 328.
Akaer, a Brazilian aerospace company, was selected by the German Deutsche Aircraft to manufacture the front part of the fuselage of the D328eco, the new generation 40-seat turboprop intended for regional transportation.
The company has a long history of cooperation with Embraer, working on the Brazilian manufacturer's major projects in recent decades, including the KC-390 freighter. It also played a major role in the development of the Gripen E fighters for the Brazilian Air Force.
Under the agreement, Akaer will be responsible for industrialization, tooling, prototyping and related studies. The first delivery of the fuselage is scheduled for the end of 2025 and will initially be produced at the company's facilities in São José dos Campos, in the interior of São Paulo.
As mentioned earlier, the D328eco is an evolution of the Dornier 328 turboprop, but with a new approach that promises to make the aircraft more energy efficient, reducing fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. The plane will also be 100% compliant SAF (sustainable aviation fuel), and other fuel mixtures.
The aircraft's main use will be to transport passengers, with a capacity of 40 seats, but it can also be adapted for other functions, such as military operations, fighting forest fires and aeromedical services.
Akaer CEO Cesar Silva said ,
“The D328eco represents an important milestone in global aviation, heralding more sustainable and efficient flights. For Akaer, being part of this significant project and playing a key role in the production of the forward fuselage is a source of great pride, further solidifying our position as a Tier 1 company.”
Deutsche Aircraft CEO, Dave Jackson said,
“The commitment and experience demonstrated by Akaer throughout the process were fundamental to our decision-making. Akaer is one of the leading companies in the Brazilian aerospace sector and that is why we are excited to collaborate on this forward fuselage project, which is a milestone in the D328eco program”.
With the partnership, Deutsche Aircraft plans to enter the Brazilian market with the D328eco. According to the company, the aircraft can meet the country's demands, as it is in line with the regional vocation.
Deutsche Aircraft has already inaugurated its new Logistics Center in Leipzig. Encompassing an area of 5,381 square feet, this facility will act as the receiving point for D328eco components.
The company is also having collaborative ventures with H2Fly and GE Aerospace are delving into the prospects of hydrogen-electric propulsion. These collaborations envisage equipping a Dornier 328 twin-turboprop with dual GE electric motors, drawing power from H2Fly's fuel cell system.
