Deutsche Aircraft has secured a partnership for the construction of the production facility for its new 40-seater regional turboprop, the D328eco, at Leipzig/Halle Airport (LEJ).
On October 1, 2024, Deutsche Aircraft announced that Weerts Group will construct the Final Assembly Line (FAL) for the D328eco, which is scheduled to become operational in the fourth quarter of 2025 with 48 aircraft set to be produced each year.
In June 2024, Deutsche Aircraft confirmed that the manufacturer was ready for the next phase of this “ambitious project” after preparing the new site at LEJ for construction work.
Spread over 60,500 square meters, the new facility will house the FAL, Flight Readiness Hangar, Logistics Centre, and Administration Building, creating a comprehensive infrastructure to support the production of the D328eco and provide jobs for between 250-350 future employees.
“This partnership with Weerts Group signifies an important milestone in the industrialisation of the D328eco. Weerts Group brings a strong portfolio of experience as we construct the Final Assembly Line for Deutsche Aircraft. This is testament to our dedication to the success of the D328eco programme and its pivotal role in the aviation value chain in Europe and around the world,” said Nico Neumann, COO of Deutsche Aircraft.
According to Deutsche Aircraft, the D328eco production facility will “incorporate cutting-edge technologies and processes” resulting in a paperless production environment.
The facility will also feature automated transport systems, and the production line will be tailored specifically to the D328eco aircraft.
“One of the key advantages of the Final Assembly Line will be its use of 3D models in production, and the possibility of integrating augmented reality technology. This innovative approach will enhance productivity and precision, further solidifying Deutsche Aircraft’s position as a leader in the aviation industry,” Deutsche Aircraft said.
The FAL will also prioritize sustainability and customer experience with energy-efficient manufacturing tools and an aircraft assembly line that customers can witness firsthand.
This D328eco aircraft is the next-generation evolution of the in-service D328 which is currently operated by regional airlines and multi-role aircraft operators globally.
On July 25, 2024, the construction of the test aircraft, TAC 1, started, as the company progresses towards the maiden flight of the D328eco program.