Deutsche Aircraft, a manufacturer of regional aircraft, has entered into a partnership with Weerts Group, a pan-European logistics and real estate infrastructure developer, for the construction of its Final Assembly Line (FAL) for the D328eco turboprop aircraft, which can carry up to 40 passengers in commuter specification.
The OEM broke ground for the FAL at Leipzig/Halle Airport in Schkeuditz, Saxony, Germany in May 2023, and the site is expected to become operational in the fourth quarter of 2025. The site, which spans a total area of 60,500 square metres, will contain the FAL, a flight-readiness hangar, a logistics centre, and an administration building, creating a comprehensive infrastructure to support the production of the D328eco. The site will have a production capacity of 48 D328eco aircraft annually.
The FAL will incorporate technologies and processes including automated and driverless transport systems to streamline operations, and automated parts and tool storage. The production line will be tailored specifically to the D328eco, optimising process flows, and utilising energy-efficient battery-powered tools as well as newly designed manufacturing tools, including tools for the fuselage. All processes will be 100% digital and paperless.
One of the key advantages of the FAL will be its use of 3D models in production, and the possibility of integrating augmented reality technology, all with the aim of enhancing productivity and precision. Even better, the open plan of the factory will allow customers to watch their aircraft being assembled, fostering transparency and trust.
Nico Neumann, COO of Deutsche Aircraft, said of the collaboration, stating “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.”
The construction of the FAL will create employment opportunities for 250-350 people, boosting the local economy in the Leipzig region.
Yves Weerts, CEO and president of Weerts Group, added, “This partnership between Deutsche Aircraft, Leipzig Airport and our Group is a milestone in our development in Germany. Weerts Group is charmed by the confidence Deutsche Aircraft and Sierra Nevada Corporation have shown during negotiations and we are very happy to contribute to the realisation of this project. This collaboration is an absolute priority for our company, with Leipzig as an important anchor point to further develop our business in the German market.”
