MRO & Manufacturing
Akaer and Deutsche Aircraft Launch D328eco Forward Fuselage Assembly Line
Akaer and Deutsche Aircraft inaugurate the D328eco fuselage assembly line, advancing sustainable regional turboprop manufacturing in Brazil.
Akaer and Deutsche Aircraft Inaugurate D328eco Forward Fuselage Assembly Line: A Strategic Partnership Reshaping Regional Aviation Manufacturing
The recent inauguration of the D328eco Forward Fuselage Assembly Line by Akaer and Deutsche Aircraft on August 12, 2025, marks a pivotal development in regional aviation manufacturing. This partnership between Brazil’s Akaer and Germany’s Deutsche Aircraft transitions the D328eco program from development into industrialization, reinforcing a broader trend of globalized aircraft production and deepening Brazil-Germany collaboration in aerospace technology. The event, attended by top Brazilian officials, underscores its importance not only for the companies but also for the regional aviation sector, as the D328eco targets market readiness in Q4 2027.
This milestone goes beyond manufacturing achievement, embodying a comprehensive approach to sustainable aviation. It leverages Brazil’s established aerospace manufacturing expertise while advancing Germany’s push for next-generation turboprop technology. The forward fuselage assembly line at Akaer’s São José dos Campos facility will handle industrialization, tooling, prototype manufacturing, and engineering studies, positioning the partnership as a cornerstone for the D328eco’s commercial aspirations.
The significance of this development lies not just in its technical or industrial aspects, but in its potential to reshape regional aviation. By combining proven aircraft heritage with modern sustainability and efficiency standards, Akaer and Deutsche Aircraft aim to address pressing market needs for cost-effective, environmentally responsible, and flexible regional air transport solutions.
Background and Historical Context of the D328eco Program
The D328eco program is an evolutionary step in regional aviation, building on the legacy of the Dornier 328 Commercial-Aircraft, which first entered service in the early 1990s. Deutsche Aircraft, the German OEMs, has positioned the D328eco as an advanced update rather than a clean-sheet design, leveraging the Dornier 328’s operational heritage while incorporating enhancements in performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions reduction. This pragmatic strategy addresses the challenges of certifying new turboprop aircraft in a competitive and highly regulated market.
The original Dornier 328, certified in over 80 countries with around 150 aircraft still in service, provided Deutsche Aircraft with a strong foundation and regulatory familiarity. The D328eco program, announced in 2020, targets the regional air travel market with a 40-seat turboprop that can operate on 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). It offers a 25% increase in passenger capacity over its predecessor and a 14% reduction in fuel consumption per passenger, directly addressing market demands for economical and sustainable regional aviation.
Key program milestones include completion of wind tunnel testing in October 2023 and the start of test aircraft construction in July 2024. The program’s timeline was adjusted in July 2024, with entry into service now planned for Q4 2027, a two-year delay attributed to evolving certification requirements and the opportunity to implement product enhancements such as improved STOL performance and advanced Avionics. This reflects the increasingly complex regulatory environment for new aircraft certification and the need for robust compliance and documentation.
The Inauguration Event and Its Industrial Significance
The August 12, 2025 inauguration at Akaer’s São José dos Campos facility transitioned the D328eco from concept to industrial reality. Akaer was selected in March 2024 to manufacture the forward fuselage, including industrialization, tooling, prototype manufacturing, and engineering studies. The event was attended by high-level Brazilian officials, reflecting the government’s recognition of aerospace as a strategic sector and the program’s potential contribution to Brazil’s role as a global aerospace hub.
Cesar Silva, Akaer CEO, highlighted the pride and strategic importance of the project, noting its role in connecting smaller cities and strengthening Akaer’s position as a Tier 1 supplier. Deutsche Aircraft’s CEO, Nico Neumann, echoed this, emphasizing the technical and strategic fit of Akaer as a partner and the milestone the assembly line represents for the D328eco program’s industrialization.
The forward fuselage assembly line is a technically complex endeavor, encompassing the full industrialization process, specialized tooling development, and prototype manufacturing. Located in Brazil’s aerospace capital, São José dos Campos, the facility benefits from a concentration of skilled workforce, supporting infrastructure, and proximity to other major aerospace players, ensuring access to resources essential for advanced manufacturing.
“The D328eco will pave the way for more sustainable and efficient regional flights that connect smaller cities in Brazil and around the world. For Akaer, being part of this significant project and playing a key role in producing the forward fuselage is a source of great pride.”, Cesar Silva, CEO of Akaer
Strategic Partnership, Manufacturing Capabilities, and Technical Specifications
Modern Aerospace Manufacturing Strategy
The Akaer-Deutsche Aircraft partnership exemplifies global aerospace manufacturing, where OEMs rely on specialized suppliers to optimize production and manage risk. Akaer, with over 30 years of experience and certifications including ISO 9001:2015 and AS 9100 rev. D, was selected for its technical capabilities, manufacturing capacity, and strategic alignment. The selection process prioritized expertise, customer focus, and long-term partnership potential.
Akaer’s role covers the entire development and production cycle for the forward fuselage, from industrialization and tooling to prototype manufacturing and ongoing support. This reflects a shift in the aerospace industry toward supplier integration, with partners taking on significant responsibility for design, development, and Manufacturing. Akaer’s application of simultaneous engineering, DFM, and DFA principles ensures manufacturing efficiency and quality from the earliest design stages.
The company’s status as a Strategic Defense Company and authorization for handling classified information underscore its capacity to manage sensitive projects, including multi-role configurations for the D328eco. These capabilities position Akaer as a key player in the global aerospace supply chain, supporting both commercial and specialized aircraft programs.
D328eco Technical Specifications and Market Positioning
The D328eco is powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127XT-S engines, fully compatible with 100% SAF and H2-SAF, supporting the aircraft’s sustainability goals. The engines deliver 2,475 shaft horsepower, enabling a maximum cruise speed of 324 knots (600 km/h) and a service ceiling of 30,000 feet. The aircraft’s take-off and landing performance allows operations at smaller Airports, enhancing regional connectivity.
With an operating empty weight of 10,150 kg and a maximum payload of 4,200 kg, the D328eco can carry 40 passengers in standard configuration. Fuel consumption at cruise is 480 kg/hour, with competitive block fuel figures for typical regional routes. Deutsche Aircraft claims the D328eco offers the lowest trip cost in its class and up to 50% better fuel efficiency than similar-sized regional jets, with significant reductions in direct maintenance costs.
The aircraft’s flexible design supports multiple roles, including passenger, cargo, and special missions. Its advanced avionics, improved STOL performance, and compatibility with emerging regulatory standards position it as a versatile solution for operators facing aging fleets and tightening environmental requirements.
“The launch of another fuselage production line at Akaer represents a key milestone in the industrialisation of the D328eco programme. Akaer’s expertise and ambition to grow into a globally recognised Tier 1 supplier make them an ideal partner.”, Nico Neumann, CEO of Deutsche Aircraft
Global Industry Context, Supply Chain, and Brazilian Integration
Market Dynamics and Competitive Landscape
The D328eco enters a regional turboprop market valued at an estimated $2.5 billion in 2025, with projected growth to $3.8 billion by 2033. Demand is driven by the need to replace aging fleets, enhance fuel efficiency, and meet sustainability goals. Turboprops remain attractive for short-haul and regional operations, especially in markets with limited passenger demand or infrastructure.
Major competitors include ATR, Cessna, and others, with ATR maintaining a dominant position and advancing its own SAF initiatives. The D328eco’s competitive edge lies in its operational efficiency, environmental compatibility, and multi-role flexibility. However, it faces challenges from established players, evolving regulatory requirements, and emerging technologies like hybrid and electric propulsion.
Geographically, North America and Europe dominate demand, but Asia-Pacific, particularly China and India, shows strong growth potential. Brazil’s domestic market, with significant investment in regional connectivity and the world’s second-largest general aviation fleet, offers substantial opportunities for the D328eco, especially as the government continues to support aviation expansion.
Supply Chain Strategy and Manufacturing Resilience
Deutsche Aircraft’s supply chain strategy distributes major structural responsibilities: Akaer produces the forward fuselage in Brazil, while other partners like Dynamatic Technologies in India handle the rear fuselage. This approach leverages local expertise, cost advantages, and market access, while also providing resilience against regional disruptions.
Advanced digital manufacturing at Deutsche Aircraft’s Leipzig/Halle Airport final assembly line incorporates automation, paperless processes, and technologies like 3D modeling and augmented reality. This “Factory 4.0” facility, with capacity for up to 48 aircraft annually, represents a significant investment in efficient, high-quality production.
Sustainability is integral to the supply chain, with the Leipzig facility designed for CO2 neutrality and renewable energy use. Supply chain resilience and early supplier engagement are prioritized, reflecting lessons learned from recent global disruptions and the need for robust, adaptive manufacturing systems.
Brazilian Aerospace Industry Integration
Brazil’s aerospace sector is the third largest globally, underpinned by decades of strategic development, government support, and strong academic-industry partnerships. São José dos Campos, home to Akaer and Embraer, is a center of aerospace excellence, offering skilled workforce, infrastructure, and a comprehensive supply base.
The Akaer-Deutsche Aircraft partnership leverages this ecosystem, providing both manufacturing capability and access to a growing domestic market. Brazil’s focus on technological independence, innovation, and international collaboration creates an environment conducive to advanced aerospace projects and global partnerships.
Government initiatives continue to support industry growth, with policies and investments aimed at maintaining Brazil’s competitive position and fostering integration into global supply chains. This foundation supports not only the D328eco program but also future opportunities in emerging aviation technologies.
“Brazil’s aerospace sector is an example of successful government-academic-private sector partnership, balancing technological independence with openness to international collaboration.”, Industry analysis
Conclusion
The inauguration of the D328eco Forward Fuselage Assembly Line is a milestone in regional aviation, showcasing the value of strategic, cross-border partnerships and modern manufacturing practices. Akaer and Deutsche Aircraft’s collaboration harnesses Brazil’s aerospace expertise and Germany’s commitment to sustainable technology, setting a template for future aircraft development programs.
As the D328eco moves toward its targeted entry into service in 2027, its success will depend on continued progress in certification, manufacturing ramp-up, and market acceptance. The partnership’s integrated approach, combining proven heritage, advanced sustainability, flexible manufacturing, and robust supply chain management, positions it to address the evolving needs of regional aviation and to influence the direction of future industry collaborations.
FAQ
What is the D328eco?
The D328eco is a 40-seat regional turboprop aircraft developed by Deutsche Aircraft, based on the Dornier 328 platform, designed for improved fuel efficiency, sustainability, and operational flexibility.
Who is responsible for the forward fuselage assembly?
Akaer, a Brazilian aerospace company, leads the production of the D328eco’s forward fuselage, handling industrialization, tooling, prototype manufacturing, and engineering studies.
When is the D328eco expected to enter service?
The current target for entry into service is Q4 2027, following a revised program timeline to accommodate enhanced certification and product improvements.
What are the key technical features of the D328eco?
The aircraft features Pratt & Whitney PW127XT-S engines, compatibility with 100% sustainable aviation fuel, advanced avionics, improved STOL performance, and a maximum cruise speed of 324 knots.
How does the D328eco address sustainability?
The D328eco is designed for full compatibility with sustainable aviation fuels, incorporates efficient engines, and is manufactured in facilities with CO2-neutral and renewable energy practices.
Sources: Deutsche Aircraft Press Release
Photo Credit: Deutsche Aircraft
MRO & Manufacturing
ExecuJet Belgium Earns EASA and FAA Approval for Falcon 6X
ExecuJet MRO Services Belgium secures EASA and FAA certification for Falcon 6X line and heavy maintenance plus AOG support.
ExecuJet MRO Services Belgium has secured regulatory approval from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to perform line and heavy maintenance on the Dassault Falcon 6X.
Announced in a company press release on July 13, 2026, the dual certification allows the Brussels-based facility to service the growing global fleet of the 5,500-nautical-mile range business jet. The approval also expands the company’s Dassault MRO GoTeam capabilities to include aircraft-on-ground (AOG) support for the Falcon 6X.
Expanding global support for the Falcon 6X
In addition to EASA and FAA certification, the Brussels facility received maintenance approvals from the Civil Aviation Authority of Bermuda, the Department of Civil Aviation of Aruba, and the Office of the Director of Civil Aviation in Guernsey. These combined authorizations enable ExecuJet Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) Services to support a wide registry of international operators.
Matthijs Hutsebaut, Regional Vice President for Europe at ExecuJet MRO Services, highlighted the operational impact of the new certifications.
“EASA and FAA are the world’s two most internationally recognised civil aviation regulators. This approval is significant as it means we are now internationally certified to do line and heavy maintenance on all in-production Falcon aircraft types,” Hutsebaut stated.
According to the company, there are currently more than 30 Dassault Falcon 6X aircraft operating worldwide. Hutsebaut noted that demand for maintenance and support services is scaling alongside the active fleet. He added that the combination of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) expertise and AOG capabilities positions the facility to provide comprehensive support to operators.
Broader network growth and recent milestones
The Falcon 6X approval in Belgium follows a series of recent capability expansions across the ExecuJet MRO Services global network, which operates as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Dassault Aviation.
On June 11, 2026, the Belgium facility completed an extensive heavy maintenance project on a Dassault Falcon 7X. That project included an engine change, avionics upgrades, and the installation of a Starlink satellite communications system.
The company is also expanding its heavy maintenance footprint in the Asia-Pacific region. On June 3, 2026, ExecuJet MRO Services Australasia announced the expansion of its Dassault Falcon 7X heavy maintenance capabilities at its Sydney facility, with C-checks scheduled to commence in October 2026.
AirPro News analysis
As new clean-sheet aircraft designs like the Dassault Falcon 6X enter service and build flight hours, the availability of certified maintenance infrastructure becomes a critical factor for operator dispatch reliability. By securing EASA and FAA approvals at a major European hub, Dassault Aviation is leveraging its wholly-owned ExecuJet MRO Services subsidiary to capture aftermarket revenue while ensuring its newest flagship operators have immediate access to heavy maintenance and AOG recovery. We expect to see similar capability rollouts across other ExecuJet MRO Services regional hubs as the Falcon 6X fleet matures and approaches its first major scheduled maintenance intervals.
Photo Credit: ExecuJet MRO Services
MRO & Manufacturing
Jet Access Maintenance Becomes Starlink Dealer Amid Price Hike
Jet Access Maintenance joins the Starlink dealer network as SpaceX raises aviation hardware costs 38% and doubles its top-tier monthly plan.
Jet Access Maintenance has secured authorization as a Starlink dealer, expanding its in-flight connectivity upgrade offerings across three maintenance facilities on the same day SpaceX implemented a massive pricing restructure for its aviation internet service.
In a press release issued on July 7, 2026, the company confirmed it will now evaluate, acquire, install, and support Starlink Aviation solutions. The authorization allows Jet Access Maintenance to perform the upgrades at its Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities in Indianapolis, Indiana; Nashville, Tennessee; and West Palm Beach, Florida.
Expanding MRO connectivity capabilities
The addition of Starlink hardware sales and activation support integrates into the company’s broader aircraft modernization initiatives. Installations will be completed by Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certified technicians.
The MRO provider will handle ongoing maintenance, technical support, and integration with existing avionics systems for business aviation operators. Scott Dillon, President of Jet Access Maintenance, stated in the release that connectivity is an increasingly important part of the ownership and flight experience.
“By adding Starlink to our offering, we’re expanding the solutions available to our clients and helping them identify the connectivity platform that best supports their aircraft and mission requirements,” Dillon said.
SpaceX restructures Starlink Aviation pricing
The Jet Access Maintenance announcement coincides exactly with a major shift in Starlink’s business model. On July 7, 2026, SpaceX notified customers of a significant pricing restructure for its Starlink Business Aviation plans.
According to reporting by Aviation Week and Corporate Jet Investor, the top-tier Aviation Global Unlimited plan doubled in price from $10,000 to $20,000 per month. SpaceX also introduced a new mid-tier option, the Aviation Regional Unlimited plan, priced at $12,500 per month. This regional plan restricts unlimited data usage to a single continental region.
Hardware costs for business jets also saw a substantial increase. Holstein Aviation reported that the cost for Starlink Aviation hardware installation rose by approximately 38 percent, jumping from $145,000 to $200,000. Official Starlink Support documentation confirms these new rates take effect for existing customers on August 7, 2026.
AirPro News analysis
We note that the timing of this dealer authorization places Jet Access Maintenance in a unique position. The company is entering the Starlink dealer network just as the product undergoes its most significant pricing and tier-structure shift to date.
The 38 percent increase in hardware costs and the doubling of the global unlimited data plan alter the value proposition for mid-light jet operators. While Starlink remains a highly sought-after low-latency connectivity solution, the new $200,000 hardware baseline and $12,500 minimum monthly commitment will likely shift the primary upgrade market toward heavy jet and ultra-long-range aircraft operators. Jet Access Maintenance will need to navigate this new pricing reality as it pitches modernization initiatives to its existing client base.
Sources: Jet Access Maintenance, Aviation Week, Corporate Jet Investor, Starlink Support, Holstein Aviation
Photo Credit: Jet Access Maintenance
MRO & Manufacturing
Safran Opens $140M LEAP Engine MRO Facility in Mexico
Safran Aircraft Engines inaugurated a $140M LEAP engine maintenance facility in Querétaro, targeting 350 shop visits annually by 2030.
Safran Aircraft Engines officially opened a $140 million maintenance facility in Querétaro, Mexico, on July 1, 2026, expanding its capacity to service the rapidly growing global fleet of CFM LEAP engines. The new shop adds significant infrastructure to the manufacturers footprint in the Americas, targeting the high-volume narrowbody market.
The facility is part of a broader €1 billion global investment strategy by the company to scale its Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) network. The CFM LEAP engine powers next-generation narrowbody aircraft, including the Airbus A320neo family and the Boeing 737 MAX, both of which are seeing increased shop visit demand as early-delivery airframes mature.
Scaling LEAP engine maintenance in the Americas
The comprehensive MRO hub in Querétaro spans a total footprint of 50,000 square meters. Safran projects that by 2030, the two maintenance facilities located at the site will be capable of handling 350 LEAP engine shop visits annually. The site also features a new test cell designed to perform 350 engine tests per year by the end of the decade.
In a press release issued to mark the opening, Stéphane Cueille, CEO of Safran Aircraft Engines, stated that the inauguration strengthens the Querétaro hub’s role at the center of the company’s maintenance ecosystem in the Americas.
Workforce growth and training initiatives
The new engine shop will employ 450 people when operating at full capacity. This expansion adds to the existing workforce across the four Safran Aircraft Engine Services Americas facilities in Querétaro, which currently stands at 1,450 employees. Safran projects the total headcount for its Querétaro operations will reach 2,000 by 2030.
To support this rapid workforce expansion, the company established an onsite training center in partnership with local educational institutions. The center is designed to train 300 inspectors and technicians annually, creating a direct pipeline of qualified personnel for the MRO hub.
“With continued investment in Mexico and around the world we will address the growing global demand for LEAP engine maintenance while continuing to deliver world class support to our customers in the region,” Cueille said.
Global MRO network expansion
The Querétaro engine shop inauguration aligns with Safran Aircraft Engines’ €1 billion global investment plan. To support the expanding CFM LEAP engine fleet, the company recently opened similar maintenance facilities in India, Morocco, and Belgium.
The broader Safran Group is also increasing its footprint in Mexico across other divisions. On June 10, 2026, Safran Landing Systems announced an expansion of its global MRO capabilities, which included its separate Querétaro site, to support landing gear maintenance for Boeing 787, Airbus A350, and Airbus A330 aircraft.
AirPro News analysis
The aggressive expansion of Safran’s MRO network underscores the industry-wide pressure to keep next-generation narrowbody fleets operational. As the CFM LEAP engine matures and the installed base on Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX aircraft grows, shop visit demand is accelerating. We view the $140 million investment in Querétaro as a strategic move to localize heavy maintenance near major North and South American operators, reducing turnaround times and logistical bottlenecks. The concurrent focus on local workforce training highlights a critical challenge in the MRO sector: securing the qualified technicians required to meet projected maintenance volumes over the next decade.
Sources: Safran Group
Photo Credit: Safran Group
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