Deutsche Aircraft is revolutionizing local aviation with D328ECO, the latest turboprop designed for efficiency, sustainability and performance in challenging environments. With its short takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities, fuel-efficient engines, and compatibility with sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), the D328ECO is poised to translate connectivity, especially in unserved regions, in Africa. Airspace Africa sat down with Reinhard Schwaiger, sales director at Deutsche Aircraft to discuss how D328ECO addresses Africa's unique aviation challenges, supports economic growth, and aligns with global sustainability goals.
Airspace Africa: D328ECO is positioned as an ideal aircraft for regional connectivity in Africa due to its short-space capabilities and efficiency. Is the specific features of the D328ECO uniquely suitable to address the diverse challenges of Africa, including dirt runways, high-altitude airports and limited infrastructure?
Reinhard Schwaiger: D328ECO is dedicated to the challenging environments found throughout Africa. It has short takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities, making it ideal for remote and undeveloped runways, including dirt runways. It works very well in high altitude and high temperature conditions (UP +50°C) that we appreciate the PW127XT-S engine. This operational flexibility ensures reliable services even in areas with limited infrastructure.
Airspace Africa: Commercial aviation creates important economic activity, but the African aviation sector remains undeveloped. How does German aircraft envision a D328ECO, which contributes to economic growth and job creation in African communities, particularly underserved regions?
Reinhard Schwaiger: Deutsche aircraft considers the D328ECO as a catalyst for regional development. Supports access to local economy, tourism and essential services by enabling reliable connectivity to underserved areas. Lower aircraft fuel efficiency and operating costs make regional routes more viable for African airlines. With 40 seats, it is ideal for high-frequency and development development.
Airspace Africa: Are there any plans to work with African Airlines, leasing companies or governments to implement D328ECO? Given the financial constraints faced by many African airlines, what challenges do they face when penetrating the African market?
Reinhard Schwaiger: Yes, we are actively involved with African Airlines, lenders and government stakeholders. Recognizing that financial constraints are a key issue, we promote a diverse range of financing solutions, including access to experienced lenders and export credit institutions like Euler Hermes. Our goal is to support early and open dialogue to coordinate funding structures that meet the unique needs of African operators.
Airspace Africa: Deutsche Aircraft is working on climate-neutral aviation by 2035, using initiatives such as the D328 Uplift Research Aircraft and the 328alpha hydrogen project. How do these efforts coincide with Africa's fragmented regulatory environment and global promotion of net-zero emissions by 2050?
Reinhard Schwaiger: The commitment to climate-neutral aviation by 2035 is consistent with global sustainability goals and supports Africa's evolving regulatory landscape. Initiatives like the D328 Uplift, a collaboration with the German Aerospace Center (DLR), show a position to reach sustainable aviation goals with partners. The D328ECO is fully compatible with 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and provides African operators with a practical path to decarbonization without compromising performance or cost-effectiveness.
Airspace Africa: Beyond fuel, are D328ECO's design or energy-efficient systems tailored to help African airports and airlines achieve sustainability goals while managing costs?
Reinhard Schwaiger: D328ECO offers up to 60% fuel savings on 300 nm trips compared to local jets. Its latest avionics and longer engine time times reduce maintenance frequency and costs. Additionally, optimized size and weight help reduce navigation and operational costs. These features make them cost-effective and sustainable solutions for African operators striving to meet their environmental goals. Supportive operating conditions allow “faster” cruise speeds and 20-minute turnaround time to offer the airline the opportunity to add another trip per day.
Airspace Africa: Global supply chain disruptions in 2025 continue to challenge the aviation industry. How does German aircraft guarantee supply chain resilience, especially for African operators who may face logistical hurdles?
Reinhard Schwaiger: We are building a resilient, transparent supply chain fixed to the new final assembly line at Leipzig/Halle Airport, which is also an important global logistics hub to open in the second half of 2025. Sustainability and efficiency are built into the entire supply chain, ensuring reliable delivery and support from operators around the world, including those in Africa.
Airspace Africa: The aviation industry faces a global shortage of skilled professionals, particularly in Africa. Does German aircraft have plans to support training or capacity building programs to enable African operators to effectively maintain and operate the D328ECO?
Reinhard Schwaiger: Our goal is to empower the community by developing a skilled workforce that can maintain and operate the D328ECO. This commitment to capacity building ensures long-term operational success for African partners.
Airspace Africa: Many African Airlines struggle with the advance costs of modernizing fleets. What funding or lease models are German aircraft exploring to ensure African airlines have access to the D328ECO? Are you planning to partner with financial institutions?
Reinhard Schwaiger: We offer a variety of funding solutions tailored to the diverse needs of African operators. This includes direct involvement with lenders and export credit institutions, as well as support throughout the funding process. Our proactive approach allows operators to access the right financial tools, whether they prefer a fully owned or leased model.
Airspace Africa: The regional turboprop market is competitive, with players like ATR and De Havilland Canada. What distinguishes D328ECO in terms of performance, cost and sustainability, especially for African operators looking for cost-effective solutions?
Reinhard Schwaiger: D328ECO stands out for its unparalleled combination of performance, efficiency and versatility. Built in the 21st century with modern passengers in mind, the D328ECO has improved its quiet cabin and comfort, taking a major step away from the old turboprop. It offers excellent fuel economy, reduced maintenance costs, and remotely operated STOL functionality that allows you to land on unpaved runways. This is an aircraft that can fly faster (324 kts) and can fly higher during less consumption than local jets (30,000 feet). SAF compatibility and reduced environmental footprint make it a solution ready for the future. It provides African operators with cost-effective, sustainable and reliable regional connections.
