New version of the Dornier 228: Do228 NXT

For most aviation enthusiasts the name General Atomics AeroTec Systems (GA-ATS) probably will not ring a bell, but this German company nowadays is the official manufacturer of the Dornier Do228.

On 8 May 2023 the company announced the start of the series production of the new version of the Dornier 228, called the Do228 NXT (in which NXT stands for Next Generation). It offers state-of-the-art technology (glass cockpit), improved performance and in compliance with current environmental regulations.

It speaks for the basic design that a new version is possible, considering the fact that the prototype of the Do228 made its first flight already in 1981! Since then some 370 examples were built (245 in Germany and 125 in India by Hindustan).

The new Next Generation Do228 will be produced only in Oberpfaffenhofen, Germany, in a slow rate of maximum five airframes yearly. General Atomics To further strengthen its European supply chain GA-ATS has announced a future collaboration with French aerospace company Potez Aéronautique to produce the Do228 NXT fuselage.

Illustration: General Atomics AeroTec Systems