SUSTAINABILITY INNOVATION

Deutsche Aircraft - Reshaping the regional aviation landscape with the D328eco™ at the Farnborough International Airshow 2024: FIA2024 Partner Blog

The aviation industry is taking a sustainable turn as it aims for near carbon neutrality. This aims to redefine the concept of building aircraft that are both efficient and environmentally friendly. The German Original Equipment Manufacturer, Deutsche Aircraft, will showcase the D328ecocockpit and cabin mock-up at this year’s Farnborough International Airshow, where current and potential operators can take a closer look at the turboprop of the 21st century, the innovative 40-seater D328eco. Catering to the needs of operators, the D328eco isn't just another turboprop: it is a highly efficient game-changer designed with sustainability at its core. This modern turboprop will surpass expectations currently offered by in-service aircraft on the market.

Anastasija Visnakova, VP Sales, and Marketing at Deutsche Aircraft, highlights the advantages of this aircraft for the turboprop market: “The D328eco will shatter the myth that turboprops are outdated, as it offers the most innovative technology in terms of operational capabilities and sustainability demands. Turboprops have proven to be more efficient in regional aviation, given the operational dynamics and the growing demand for regional routes where land and rail infrastructure have made connectivity challenging for narrowbody aircraft. We look forward to showcasing the advanced technologies of the D328eco at the Farnborough International Airshow.”

 

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 for regional aviation with higher operational efficiency and a better return on investment for airlines.

Comfort and Operational Efficiency Above the Clouds

  • 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.
  • 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: Utilizing advanced composite materials such as carbon fibre, the aircraft sheds weight, further reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
  • 100% SAF-PtL ready: Leading the change towards a truly sustainable future, the D328eco is fully compatible with Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and Power-to-Liquids (PtL) which are a cleaner and more practical alternative to conventional Jet A-1 fuel. As SAF production ramps up, the D328eco is ready to embrace its full potential. These advantages translate to significant cost savings for airlines while also offering substantial benefits for the environment.

More Than Just Sustainability: Business Benefits for Operators

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 an 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), expanding networks and attracting new passengers.
  • Passionate team: Behind the innovative D328eco is a team of more than 500 aviation enthusiasts. Leveraging their highly specialized skills and knowledge, they are dedicated to shaping the future of regional aviation. With their commitment to excellence, Deutsche Aircraft is poised to make a meaningful impact on the industry catering to the needs of operators, passengers, and the environment.

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