TRJet today signed a contract with Paderborn, Germany-based Heggemann AG to supply the Main Landing Gear (MLG) and Nose Landing Gear (NLG) for the company's TRJ328 aircraft and TRP328 turboprop. TRJet is an Ankara, Turkey-based aviation company that has been contracted to manufacture Turkey's first regional jet.

The initial contract requires construction of three prototype systems by Heggemann for evaluation on Development aircraft. Initial shipsets will be made in Germany, while subsequent manufacturing is expected to be supported by Turkish partners.

Heggemann AG will provide the complete landing gear structure, including steering actuators, retracting kinematic and actuators; downlocks; electrics and hydraulics harnesses; and the electrical steering box. These elements support the requirement for a common landing gear between the TRJ328 and TRP328 with a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of 15,660 kg (34,524 lbs).

“One of the most important qualities of the 328 Series aircraft is its ability to reach nearly any destination in the world by landing on a variety of surfaces ranging from sand to grass,” said Cem Ugur, general manager of TRJet. “This partnership with Heggemann is ideal for ensuring that the 328 Series continues to be known for its flexibility, efficiency and special mission capability in even the most demanding environments. It is what makes the aircraft trusted by operators worldwide.”

The aircraft currently serves a number of strategic roles across multiple countries including regional aircraft, special mission, air ambulance, cargo, VIP and corporate shuttle. Demand for aircraft of this type is expected to grow exponentially over the next two decades.

“We are delighted to become part of this exciting new programme at an opportune time where smaller regional aircraft are more sought after due to limitations on airport access. The 328 Series is in a class of its own and we look forward to working together with TRJet to further develop and support the growth of the Turkish aviation industry,” Robert Heggemann, CEO of Heggemann AG.