By Staff Correspondent
The front fuselage of the D328eco, a sustainable 40-seater turboprop aircraft for the regional aviation market, will be manufactured by Akaer, an innovative aerospace and engineering business, according to German OEM Deutsche Aircraft. The front fuselage’s production, including industrialization, tooling, prototype, and associated research, will be handled by Akaer.
An important step towards consolidating Akaer’s position in the international aerospace market has been the company’s collaboration with Deutsche Aircraft. German aircraft manufacturer Deutsche Aircraft has acknowledged the superiority of Akaer’s forward fuselage assembly and design engineering. Because of this world-class Brazilian firm, Brazil is now the third-largest airplane manufacturer in the world, and its aerospace sector is able to develop and produce massive structural assemblies all over the globe.
The D328eco is a watershed moment in aviation history, paving the way for greener and more efficient travel throughout the world. It is with great joy that Akaer participates in this monumental project and plays a crucial role in manufacturing the front fuselage. This further establishes Akaer as a Tier 1 firm, according to CEO Cesar Silva.
“The commitment and experience showcased by Akaer throughout this process was pivotal in our decision-making, Akaer is one of the key players in the Brazilian Aerospace industry which is why we are excited to collaborate on this project for the front fuselage which is a milestone in the D328eco programme,” said Dave Jackson, CEO of Deutsche Aircraft.
This partnership highlights the recognition of Akaer’s 32 years of expertise in the aviation sector and their commitment to quality. Careful consideration went into each choice. According to Maximilan Fahr, VP of supply chain at Deutsche Aircraft, “We considered Akaer’s commitment, customer focus and exemplary experience,” all of which played a role in landing this major project for the D328eco programme.
Aviation seeing rapid growth
The growth of regional aviation is a priority for Brazil, which has the world’s fifth-largest airspace. The massive community will be air-connected thanks to an investment of over US$ 600 million, and Brazil’s efforts to strengthen its regional aviation and aerospace manufacturing capacities will benefit from this partnership.
Brazil has the world’s second-largest general aviation fleet and might benefit from an update with the multi-role configuration of the D328eco to meet its demands in executive, aeromedical, and agricultural aviation. In just a decade, Brazil’s turboprop market share has increased by an astounding 344%.
The adaptability of the D328eco multi-function configuration makes it suitable for a wide range of tasks, from aeromedical services to forest firefighting, military operations, rescue missions, and passenger transport. It’s remarkable flying abilities and versatility allow it to reach locations with short, dirt runways, regardless of the weather.
When it comes to fuel efficiency and pollution, the D328eco is unrivalled. Customers will have maximum freedom when it comes to energy supply alternatives because the aircraft will be completely compatible with 100% SAF-PtL and various fuel mixes.
Initially manufactured in Brazil at the facility in São José dos Campos, the D328eco front fuselage is expected to be delivered for the first time by the tail end of 2025.