Deutsche Aircraft teams with Pratt & Whitney for engines for D328eco turboprop

Deutsche Aircraft has selected the Pratt & Whitney PW127XT-S engine to power the D328eco regional turboprop, its updated version of the Dornier 328.

The two are also teaming up to investigate new propulsion technologies for the aircraft, including sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and hydrogen-based fuel.

The engine, another model in the XT series, will deliver a “significant” improvement in operating costs and sustainability, the two companies said in a statement on June 17, 2022.

“We have worked closely with the D328eco team over a number of years to develop the best engine option for the aircraft,” said Maria Della Posta, president of Pratt & Whitney Canada.

The engine will also be developed in line with the D328eco timeline. Deutsche Aircraft hopes to offer the 40-seater regional turboprop by 2025, according to its website. The aircraft will have a reduced carbon footprint thanks to advanced flight deck capabilities, a SAF compatible airframe and more efficient engines, the manufacturer promises.

Della Posta said that the PW127XT-S provides airlines 40% more time on wing, a 20% reduction in maintenance costs and a 3% improvement in specific fuel consumption. “We support Deutsche Aircraft’s vision of building a green aviation company and we’re confident that the PW127XT-S is the ideal match for the D328eco.”

In addition, Deutsche Aircraft and Pratt & Whitney have also agreed to collaborate on new propulsion technologies within the D328eco program.

“Our two companies recently agreed to cooperate on enabling the PW127XT-S engine powering the D328eco to run on a 100 percent sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) including hydrogen-based Power-to-Liquid (PtL) fuel,” explained Dave Jackson, managing director, Deutsche Aircraft.