Deutsche Aircraft marked a key moment with the cornerstone ceremony for the D328eco regional aircraft’s Final Assembly Line (FAL) at Leipzig/Halle Airport.
This event signals the start of serial production for the innovative turboprop, reinforcing Germany’s role in sustainable aerospace manufacturing.
Since the groundbreaking in May 2023, attended by Saxony’s Prime Minister Michael Kretschmer, significant progress has been made. The new 60,500-square-meter site is equivalent in size to eight football fields.
By late 2025, the facility will feature a CO2-neutral production plant, a commissioning hangar, a logistics hub, and an administrative building. Once operational, it will employ 250 to 350 workers and produce up to 48 aircraft annually, boosting the local economy and aviation sector.
Leadership Comments
Nico Neumann, Co-CEO of Deutsche Aircraft, highlighted the event’s importance. “Today, we take a major step toward industrializing the D328eco, a project years in the making. This ceremony is historic for Deutsche Aircraft, Saxony, and German regional aviation.”
“We’re reviving the legacy of Dornier by bringing regional aircraft development back to Germany. Support from the government, shareholders, and our dedicated team has been instrumental.”
Saxony’s Prime Minister Michael Kretschmer praised the project’s impact. “Deutsche Aircraft’s investment in Leipzig/Halle Airport is a win for Saxony’s economy. This initiative brings cutting-edge technology, sustainable production, and high-quality jobs. It strengthens our aerospace industry and drives regional growth.”
The project also benefits from strong partnerships. Yves Weerts, CEO of the Weerts Group, the project’s investor and construction lead, emphasized the collaboration. “Deutsche Aircraft’s professionalism and passion inspire us. This project marks a significant step for our company in the German market and deepens our ties with Leipzig/Halle Airport.”
Götz Ahmelmann, CEO of Mitteldeutsche Flughafen AG, underscored the airport’s transformation. “This production line positions our airport as a leader in sustainable aviation. The D328eco sets new benchmarks for eco-friendly manufacturing and flight, shaping the future of air travel and boosting regional development.”
Looking Ahead
The cornerstone ceremony reflects successful cooperation among stakeholders, including international logistics firms, the airport, and manufacturers. It paves the way for the next milestone: the public unveiling of the D328eco TAC 1 test aircraft.
This will be carried out on May 28 at Deutsche Aircraft’s Air Tech Campus in Oberpfaffenhofen. This aircraft, designed to be the most efficient and environmentally friendly in its class, will redefine regional aviation.
The D328eco project has typified Deutsche Aircraft’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. By leveraging advanced technology and eco-conscious practices, the company aims to meet the growing demand for efficient regional travel while minimizing environmental impact.
The Leipzig facility will serve as a hub for these efforts, creating jobs and fostering economic growth in Saxony. This milestone marks an important step forward for Deutsche Aircraft. With the D328eco, Germany holds the potential to lead the way in sustainable, high-tech regional aircraft production.
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