RUAG: The first Do 228 New Generation gets airborne – EASA type certification received

The extended type certification of the Do 228NG New Generation was granted to RUAG by EASA (European Aviation Safety Agency) on August 18, 2010. It was two and a half years after project go-ahead that this important milestone was achieved.

The successful first flight of the first series aircraft with the S/N 8300, which was completed in Oberpfaffenhofen after 14-month construction time, was already conducted on July 30, 2010. After a flight time of more than two and a half hours the Do 228NG returned to Oberpfaffenhofen. During this flight the entire scheduled in-flight test programme could be performed. The two pilots Franz Huber and Gerd Selleske confirmed after the flight the excellent flight characteristics and the enhanced flight performance of the New Generation. Thus, the Do 228NG ranks among the top aircraft of its class.

The new features of the modernized Do 228-212 comprise an up-to-date glass cockpit based on the Universal Avionics System EFI890, higher powered engines of the TPE 331-10 type, a new and highly efficient 5-blade composite propeller made by the MT- Propeller company in Straubing, and another 300 enhancements on various aircraft systems. These modifications mainly contribute to make the new Do 228NG a more efficient and safe aircraft platform.

The multi-purpose turboprop aircraft is beside the transport from up to 19 passengers ideal for special mission operations such as maritime surveillance, border and fishery control, environmental and water protection. The rectangular fuselage cross-section of the Do 228NG allows to easily integrate the sensors and electronic systems as well as the operator consoles required for the above tasks. Dependent on the equipment several tasks can also be accomplished at the same time. The Do 228NG has a large operating range, can stay up to 10 hours in the air and covers a wide range of speed. These features ensure that on the one hand the aircraft can rapidly reach its operational area, and on the other hand it can closely inspect places and objects of interest.

The delivery to the Japanese launch customer will be the next step.