Akaer and Deutsche Aircraft have inaugurated the forward fuselage assembly line for the D328eco regional turboprop at Akaer’s site in São José dos Campos, Brazil.

The project marked the transition of the D328eco from development into industrialisation, with entry into service planned for Q4 2027. Akaer will manage forward fuselage production, covering industrialisation, tooling, prototype builds and related engineering work.

The ceremony was attended by local and national officials including São José dos Campos Mayor Anderson Farias, São Paulo Governor Tarcísio de Freitas, Vice Governor Felicio Ramuth, Ministry of Defence representative Ten Brig Ar Heraldo Luiz Rodrigues and Transport Minister Renan Junior.

Cesar Silva, CEO of Akaer, says: “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. It further strengthens our position as a Tier 1 supplier.”

Nico Neumann, CEO of Deutsche Aircraft, adds: “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, both technically and strategically, in the Brazilian market.”