Deutsche Aircraft says its new D328eco turboprop aircraft is om track to be compliant to use 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuels when it enters service.

The manufacturer, which rolled out the first test aircraft last month at its Oberpfaffenhofen facility in Germany, is working with engine manufacturer Pratt & Whitney Canada.

In an update on the flight test campaign conduced using the D328 UpLift demonstrator late last year, the firm said it aims to ensure the aircraft is “future ready”.

The test campaign conducted in partnership with the German Aerospace Center included five flights powered by fully synthetic, zero aromatics Fischer-Tropsch fuels.

Deutsche said it confirmed that the propulsion system performs to specifications using alternative fuels.

“This is a crucial step toward supporting future operational flexibility and sustainability goals,” it said.

The D328eco is powered by the PW127XT-S engine to meet the evolving demands of regional air travel, especially in markets where operators face unique challenges such as short runways, harsh weather, and remote communities.

Nico Neumann, chief executive of Deutsche Aircraft, said: “The joint test campaign confirms our ambition of making the D328eco ready to operate with future specifications for 100% SAF at Entry Into Service (EIS).

“This, along with other platform updates, ensures the D328eco meets performance, and sustainability goals and provides a reliable, future-ready aircraft.”

The D328eco is a next-generation turboprop designed to deliver:

• Up to 15 % improvement in fuel efficiency compared to its predecessor the D328®
• 40 % longer time on wing
• 20 % lower maintenance costs

These enhancements are expected to significantly reduce operating costs and boost dispatch reliability, helping regional airlines deliver dependable services in demanding conditions.

Maria Della Posta, president of Pratt & Whitney Canada, said: “For over 40 years, we’ve been dedicated to supporting regional airlines by understanding their unique needs.

“With the PW127XT engine family, we’ve developed a solution that reduces maintenance and operating costs, delivering significant value to our customers.”

The rollout of the first test aircraft marked the shift from design to hands-on flight testing, which is scheduled to begin in 2026. The programme remains on track for type certification and Entry Into Service (EIS) in Q4 2027.

Deutsche Aircraft and Pratt & Whitney Canada vowed to continue to collaborating to ensure the aircraft meets the highest standards of performance, reliability, and efficiency, “paving the way for a new era of more efficient regional air travel”.