Washington D.C., Sept. 09, 2025 — U.S. regional airlines are currently at a critical juncture, contending with escalating operating costs, pilot shortages, and an urgent need to replace their aging fleets of 30- to 50-seat aircraft. The demand for enhanced fuel efficiency and comprehensive fleet modernization has become more pressing than ever before.
At this year’s Regional Airline Association (RAA) Leaders Conference, scheduled for September 17–19 in Washington, D.C., German regional aircraft manufacturer Deutsche Aircraft will unveil its solution to these industry challenges: the D328eco® turboprop. This next-generation aircraft is specifically engineered to address the evolving requirements of regional aviation.
“This initiative transcends merely one aircraft; it’s about fundamentally transforming regional mobility,” stated Anastasija Visnakova, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Deutsche Aircraft. “By reducing operating costs on short-haul routes by as much as 40% compared to jet aircraft, we empower carriers to restore essential services and establish new routes for communities that rely on dependable air connections.”
Ms. Visnakova is also slated to join fellow OEM leaders on the CEO Panel: The Next 50 Years, taking place on Friday, September 19 (11:45 AM – 12:20 PM). During this discussion, she will share her insights on how innovation and new market entrants are poised to shape the industry and passenger experience over the next five decades.
Designed from the ground up to meet contemporary market demands, the D328eco® surpasses the limitations of conventional turboprops developed in the 1980s. Its core advantages include:
Operational efficiency – Offering up to 40% lower seat costs compared to earlier-generation turboprops and regional jets in the same class. It also features significantly reduced fuel consumption compared to aging aircraft in its segment, contributing to improved operational efficiency, substantial cost savings, and a notable decrease in CO2 emissions.
- Right-sized connectivity – A 40-passenger capacity ideally suited for underserved and short-haul routes where jet aircraft are less effective.
- Multi-role flexibility – Configurable for diverse applications including passenger transport, cargo, medical evacuation (medevac), and special missions, building upon the established legacy of the D328® platform, which includes the U.S. Air Force’s “Wolfhound.”
- Strategic Market timing – Presents an economical replacement solution for aging regional aircraft fleets, aligning with expanding infrastructure investments.
Media Engagement Opportunities
Deutsche Aircraft executives will be available for interviews during the RAA Leaders Conference:
- Anastasija Visnakova – VP of Sales & Marketing (also a panel participant; available both in-person and virtually)
- Nils Heuer – Director of Sales (available both in-person and virtually)
As regional carriers navigate increasing economic and operational pressures, Deutsche Aircraft views the D328eco as a practical pathway to reinstating air service and strengthening community connections.
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CONTACT: Melek Merve Mutlu Deutsche Aircraft Gmbh PressOffice@DeutscheAircraft.com
