The company has reached a key milestone in the manufacturing process at its Oberpfaffenhofen site, where the final assembly of the first Do228 NXT is now underway. Completion of this initial aircraft is expected within the next few months.
To ensure high production quality and strengthen the supply chain, GA-ATS has shifted the majority of manufacturing operations to its in-house facility in Germany. All other essential components are also produced within Germany or elsewhere in Europe.
“By focusing on in-house production of the Do228 NXT, we ensure that the aircraft will be of the highest quality and the shorter and stronger supply chains will result in reliable deliveries,” said Florian Rohe, Managing Director of General Atomics AeroTec Systems. The company has established a modern production facility and introduced numerous technical enhancements as part of the development.
After beginning component production earlier in 2024—including in-house manufacturing of the wings—GA-ATS has now advanced to full assembly. The series production at Oberpfaffenhofen Special Airport marks the start of a new chapter for the long-established Do228 platform.
A range of technical innovations and optimisations has been integrated into the Do228 NXT. These enhancements affect both small parts and major systems, contributing to improved performance and efficiency.
Compared to the previous Do228 NG model, the Do228 NXT features several state-of-the-art updates. These include modern LED cabin lighting, a new braking system, an electric air conditioning unit, and a new Attitude and Heading Reference System (AHRS).
In addition to better systems, the optimised production methods and components contribute to cost efficiency and reduced aircraft weight. With production advancing rapidly and technical upgrades in place, GA-ATS is close to launching the Do228 NXT—the next generation of the iconic Do228 aircraft.
