GKN Aerospace will build D328Eco empennage

June 17, 2021 - D328eco is a new 40-seat turbo prop aircraft being developed by Deutsche Aircraft. Based on the proven D328 platform, the D328eco not only inherits the aerodynamic advanced D328 performance, but also will focus on sustainability for both product and production. In the development of D328eco, Deutsche Aircraft looks for reliable and environmentally conscious partners.

GKN Aerospace is a Tier 1 aerospace supplier serving over 90% of the world’s aircraft and engine OEMs, and is market leading in empennages for business and regional aircraft. Deutsche Aircraft will be working with GKN Aerospace on the development of the empennage and the industrialisation of this airframe main assembly which includes the rear fuselage and the vertical- and horizontal tail plane fin.

The empennage will feature advanced lightweight solutions involving state-of-the-art composite technology. Working in partnership, both businesses are committed to continuously improve the environmental performance of the platform.

Deutsche Aircraft commits to deliver significant improvements in operational and maintenance. We are glad to have GKN Aerospace as a partner who aligns on the mission of supporting the success of the aircraft program.

Nico Neumann, Vice President of Operations and Programmes for Deutsche Aircraft said: “The selection of GKN Aerospace with their deep knowledge and long history in advanced composite materials and processes is a perfect fit to the D328eco program and aligns with the objectives from Deutsche Aircraft.”

John Pritchard President Civil Airframe GKN Aerospace said: “In the quest for more sustainable and environmentally friendly aviation, we are excited to become part of the D328eco programme. GKN Aerospace is proud to bring its wealth of experience in design and certification, in conjunction with key technological innovations on lightweight composites.”

Dietmar Czaia, General Manager at GKN Aerospace’s Munich facility, said “We are proud to be a part of the D328eco programme and a part of the German Aerospace ecosystem relaunching this great aircraft. This programme will secure jobs and create future growth for the Munich facility.”

The program, currently in concept design phase, is focused on the maturity of new systems and materials required to support the aircraft industrialisation. The regional aircraft program continues to be led out of Oberpfaffenhofen airport near Munich and planning work has commenced on establishment of the FAL at Leipzig Halle Airport.

About Deutsche Aircraft

Founded on the proud heritage of Dornier and Germany’s reputation for engineering design, quality and innovation, Deutsche Aircraft is the new purpose-driven German Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). Built on the heritage and expertise of 328 Support Services GmbH, the Type certificate holder of the Dornier 328 aircraft (D328® aircraft), Deutsche Aircraft will enable future development of the D328 platform, and exploit future technologies and capabilities to produce a more efficient, economic and environmentally friendly aircraft to drive the future of aviation toward a zero-emission flight objective. Together with the participation of the German Government, Deutsche Aircraft is leading the way in a new era of clean aviation and is addressing the need to protect our planet and inspire future generations, for cleaner, safer and more efficient air travel.

About 328SSG:

328 Support Services GmbH (328SSG) is a subsidiary of Sierra Nevada Corporation, USA. It offers a broad spectrum of services to the aircraft industry. Employing over 170 aviation experts, it supports more than 180 aircraft globally. Through its EASA Part 21J Design Organisation (Category 1A) as well as its Part 21G Production Organisation (C1, C2 and D1 rating) and Part 145 Maintenance Organisation, 328SSG provides the aero industry with design, certification, production and maintenance services. This includes base and line aircraft maintenance, avionics installation, exterior painting, Part-M services, refurbishment, training services (part 147), STC design activities and bespoke VIP interiors including avionic & IFE upgrades. 328SSG is based at Oberpfaffenhofen Airport, near Munich.

 

View source version on GKN Aerospace: https://www.gknaerospace.com/en/newsroom/news-releases/2021/gkn-aerospace-will-build-d328eco-empennage/