The Dornier 328: A Regional Aircraft with Enduring Legacy

Introduction

The Dornier 328 is a twin-engine regional aircraft developed by Dornier Luftfahrt GmbH in the late 1980s. Designed to meet the growing demand for short-range air travel, the Dornier 328 quickly gained recognition for its efficiency, versatility, and passenger comfort. This article delves into the history, design, and legacy of the Dornier 328, exploring its impact on regional aviation.

Historical Background

In the late 1980s, the regional air travel market was expanding rapidly, creating an opportunity for new aircraft designs. Dornier Luftfahrt, a renowned German aircraft manufacturer, identified this market potential and initiated the development of the Dornier 328. The aircraft made its maiden flight in 1991, and entered commercial service in 1993.

Design and Features

The Dornier 328 is a high-wing, twin-engine aircraft with a sleek fuselage and a distinctive "twin tail" design. Its airframe is constructed primarily of aluminum alloy, providing both strength and durability. The aircraft features a spacious cabin with a seating capacity of up to 33 passengers in a standard configuration.

One of the most notable design features of the Dornier 328 is its unique "all-composite" rudder, which significantly reduces weight and drag. The aircraft's engines, produced by Pratt & Whitney Canada, provide excellent fuel efficiency and performance. Additionally, the Dornier 328 is equipped with state-of-the-art avionics, including a glass cockpit and advanced flight management systems.

Performance and Efficiency

The Dornier 328 boasts impressive performance and efficiency characteristics. Its cruising speed ranges from 315 to 340 knots, allowing it to operate at altitudes of up to 35,000 feet. The aircraft has a maximum range of approximately 900 nautical miles, making it suitable for short to medium-haul flights.

In terms of efficiency, the Dornier 328 consumes approximately 80 gallons of fuel per hour, resulting in low operating costs. Its high-lift wing design and advanced engines contribute to its exceptional fuel efficiency, making it a cost-effective option for regional carriers.

Applications and Impact

The Dornier 328 has been widely used by regional airlines around the world, connecting smaller communities to larger hubs. Its versatility and efficiency have made it a popular choice for a variety of applications, including:

• Scheduled passenger transport: The Dornier 328 is primarily used for scheduled passenger transport, operating short-haul flights between regional airports. Its comfortable cabin and reliable performance have made it a popular choice for passengers.

• Cargo transport: The Dornier 328 has also been used for cargo transport, offering a flexible and cost-effective solution for moving goods and materials. Its large cargo door and spacious cabin allow for efficient loading and unloading.

• Special missions: The Dornier 328 has been modified for various special missions, including aerial surveillance, maritime patrol, and medical evacuation. Its rugged construction and long endurance make it suitable for demanding operating environments.

Operators and Market Share

At its peak, the Dornier 328 was operated by over 100 airlines worldwide. Some of the most notable operators included:

• Air India: Air India operated a fleet of Dornier 328s for regional connectivity within India.

• Lufthansa CityLine: Lufthansa CityLine operated Dornier 328s for short-haul flights within Germany and neighboring countries.

• Mesa Airlines: Mesa Airlines was one of the largest operators of Dornier 328s in the United States.

• Air Wisconsin: Air Wisconsin operated a fleet of Dornier 328s for regional flights on behalf of United Express and Delta Connection.

Production and End of Production

Production of the Dornier 328 reached its peak in the early 2000s, with over 200 aircraft being delivered to airlines worldwide. However, in 2002, Dornier Luftfahrt was acquired by Fairchild Dornier, and the production of the Dornier 328 was discontinued shortly thereafter.

The end of production was primarily due to the changing dynamics of the regional aircraft market. The growing popularity of smaller and more fuel-efficient jets, such as the Bombardier CRJ200 and Embraer E-Jets, led to a decline in demand for turboprop aircraft like the Dornier 328.

Legacy and Impact

Despite its relatively short production run, the Dornier 328 has left a lasting legacy in the aviation industry. Its innovative design, efficiency, and reliability made it a popular choice for regional airlines. The aircraft's ability to connect smaller communities to larger hubs played a significant role in expanding regional air travel.

The Dornier 328 has also been praised for its safety record. According to the Aviation Safety Network, there have been no fatal accidents involving the Dornier 328 in commercial service. This exceptional safety record is a testament to the aircraft's robust design and reliability.

Revival through OEM Support

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in the Dornier 328 due to its efficiency and versatility. Several original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) have stepped up to provide support for the aircraft, including:

• TurboCare: TurboCare provides maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services for the Dornier 328, ensuring that the aircraft remains airworthy and reliable.

• Aerodata AG: Aerodata AG is a leading provider of avionics upgrades and modifications for the Dornier 328, keeping the aircraft up-to-date with the latest technology.

• EADS CASA: EADS CASA offers a wide range of engineering and support services for the Dornier 328, extending its operational life and enhancing its capabilities.

Secondhand Market and Value

As the Dornier 328 is no longer in production, the secondhand market is the primary source of aircraft for airlines and private operators. The value of a secondhand Dornier 328 typically ranges from $2 to $4 million, depending on factors such as age, condition, and maintenance history.

The availability of secondhand Dornier 328s has made it an attractive option for airlines looking for a cost-effective and reliable regional aircraft. The aircraft's continued popularity is a testament to its enduring value and versatility.

Technical Specifications

Dimensions:

• Length: 20.48 m (67 ft 2 in)
• Wingspan: 20.98 m (68 ft 10 in)
• Height: 6.40 m (21 ft)

Weight:

• Maximum takeoff weight: 13,240 kg (29,188 lb)
• Empty weight: 6,875 kg (15,157 lb)

Performance:

• Cruising speed: 315-340 knots (583-630 km/h)
• Range: 900 nautical miles (1,667 km)
• Ceiling: 35,000 feet (10,668 m)

Capacity:

• Passengers: 33 (standard configuration)
• Cargo: 400 cubic feet (11.3 cubic meters)

Engines:

• Pratt & Whitney Canada PW119B turboprop engines
• Power: 1,700 shaft horsepower each

Tables

Table 1: Dornier 328 Operators

Table 2: Dornier 328 Production History

Table 3: Dornier 328 Specifications Comparison