Charles Alcock is managing editor of the AIN Media Group, having rejoined the company in 2019. He has been an aviation journalist since 1986, and previously worked for AIN from 1990 to 2017, most recently as editor-in-chief. His main focus is on covering new aviation technology and business models, as well as international news.
Having been raised in the London area, Alcock studied at the University of Manchester in the UK and earned an honors degree in Politics and Modern History. He speaks English and French, and some German.

Managing Editor

Charles Alcock

Deutsche Aircraft has unveiled the first prototype of its D328eco regional airliner. Designated TAC 1, the test aircraft was rolled out on May 28 at the German company’s headquarters at the Airtech Campus in Oberpfaffenhofen.
The D328eco is a modernized version of the 1990s-vintage Dornier 328 commuter aircraft, for which Deutsche Aircraft is the type certificate holder. Aiming to achieve a 95% reduction in carbon emissions compared with the original model, the company is&nbsp;marketing the upgrade to regional airlines and business aviation operators.
The 40-seat aircraft will feature a pair of new Pratt &amp; Whitney PW127XT-S turboprop engines that the company will run on power-to-liquid sustainable aviation fuel. Longer-term plans call for a subsequent transition to hydrogen propulsion, which is being developed in partnership with H2Fly.
According to Deutsche Aircraft, it is now preparing to start flight tests with the TAC 1 aircraft in 2026 as it works towards type certification and service entry during the fourth quarter of 2027. The D328eco will also feature the Garmin Companion flight deck.
More than 500 guests attended the roll-out event in Germany, including representatives of the German federal government and Bavarian state government, as well as industry partners and suppliers, such as <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/air-transport/2021-06-17/gkn-supply-empennage-d328eco">GKN Aerospace</a>.
“This roll-out of our first test aircraft marks a significant achievement in the D328eco program and an important step towards our physical flight test activities,” said Deutsche Aircraft’s co-CEO, Nico Neumann. “This milestone represents our transition from conceptual design to practical testing and industrialization. At Deutsche Aircraft, we are proud to introduce an aircraft with the proven DNA of the Dornier 328, enhanced for better efficiency, reduced emissions, and a superior customer experience, making it an optimal choice for regional operators worldwide.”

News and developments about airplanes, helicopters and unmanned air vehicles used in all varieties of operations, including airlines, military, business, commercial, general aviation and private.

Deutsche Aircraft Rolls Out D328eco Prototype as Flight Testing Approaches

The twin turboprop was unveiled at an event in Oberpfaffenhofen, Germany

After rolling out the first test example of its D328eco remake of the Dornier 328 regional airliner, Deutsche Aircraft is preparing to start flight testing.

Deutsche Aircraft Rolls Out First D328eco Regional Prototype 

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

Amy Wilder

News and issues relating to the aerospace industry that are related to the science, engineering and business of flight in space involving civil, industrial and military applications, and similar topics related to flight in the atmosphere of the Earth that are not covered more directly by other AINonline subject channels. In other words, both astronautical and aeronautical subjects, except for those aeronautical topics that are specifically covered elsewhere on this website.

OEM cites strong alignment with Brazilian market needs

Bombardier To Display Long-range Jets at Catarina Show

Kerry Lynch

Aircraft will test landing and takeoff capabilities

Hermeus Begins Flight-test Campaign with Quarterhorse Mk 1

Hanneke Weitering

A joint study will quantify the environmental, economic, and operational impact of BWBs

Logistics Giant Kuehne+Nagel Teams with Natilus on Blended-wing-body Freighters

News about simulators and training procedures, as well as workforce.

News and issues concerning general aviation, specifically airplanes and helicopters powered by piston and alternative engines (i.e., non-turbine powered aircraft). Subjects include aircraft, engines, personnel, acquisitions, accidents, safety, security and training.

The tail-mounted electric propulsion unit promises increases in efficiency.

Smartflyer: Hybrid-Electric SF-1 Will Transform Pilot Training

News and issues relating to business, corporate and private aviation, primarily regarding turbine-engine-powered airplanes and helicopters. Subjects include aircraft, engines, maintenance, operations, personnel, acquisitions, accidents, safety, security, and training.

Flight ops, deliveries, preowned transactions, and backlogs strengthen in Q1

GJC: Q1 Bizav Market Metrics Improve Despite Uncertainty

Curt Epstein

GAMA head warns tariffs could cause future headwinds

GAMA: Genav Deliveries Rise across All Segments in Q1

News about bills, laws, regulations and other governmental decisions affecting aviation and aerospace. Topics include FAA re-authorizations, taxes on fuel and aviation activities, environmental legislation, ICAO decisions, governmental mediation of labor conflicts and World Trade Organization disputes and decisions.

VX4 prototype flew under an extended permit to fly from Cotswold Airport

Vertical Makes Piloted Wingborne eVTOL Flight in Open Airspace

New developments at airports including regulations and noise issues; legal disputes; openings, acquisitions and mergers.

In this article

Deutsche Aircraft

More In Aircraft