Deutsche Aircraft has announced a partnership with Weerts Group for the construction of its Final Assembly Line (FAL) at Leipzig/Halle Airport. This collaboration is a key development in Deutsche Aircraft’s D328eco programme and marks a significant step in the company’s production capabilities. The facility is expected to become operational in the fourth quarter of 2025.
The groundwork for the FAL began in May 2023, and significant progress has since been made. The fieldwork on the ground side has been completed and handed over, allowing Weerts Group to proceed with construction. With a total area of 60,500 square metres, the facility will include the FAL, a Flight Readiness Hangar, a Logistics Centre, and an Administration Building. This infrastructure will support the production of the D328eco aircraft, a regional aircraft designed for efficiency and sustainability.
The new FAL will incorporate advanced technologies aimed at improving efficiency and precision in aircraft production. The facility will be fully digital and paperless, using automated and driverless transport systems to streamline operations. Automated parts and tool storage will further enhance production processes. The use of 3D models in production, alongside the potential integration of augmented reality technology, will ensure a high level of accuracy and productivity.
Energy-efficient battery-powered tools will be used throughout the production process, aligning with Deutsche Aircraft’s commitment to sustainability. Additionally, the manufacturing tools, including those used for assembling the fuselage, have been designed to minimise energy consumption. These features will contribute to an environmentally friendly production line.
The construction of the FAL is expected to create employment opportunities for 250-350 people, providing an economic boost to the Leipzig region. With an annual production capacity of 48 D328eco aircraft, the facility aims to meet the increasing demand for regional aircraft while maintaining high standards of quality.
Nico Neumann, COO of Deutsche Aircraft, highlighted the importance of this collaboration, stating “This partnership with Weerts Group signifies an important milestone in the industrialisation of the D328eco. Weerts Group brings a strong portfolio of experience as we construct the Final Assembly Line for Deutsche Aircraft. This is testament to our dedication to the success of the D328eco programme and its pivotal role in the aviation value chain in Europe and around the world.”
Yves Weerts, CEO and President of Weerts Group, remarked, “This partnership between Deutsche Aircraft, Leipzig Airport and our Group is a milestone in our development in Germany. Weerts Group is charmed by the confidence Deutsche Aircraft and Sierra Nevada Corporation have shown during negotiations and we are very happy to contribute to the realisation of this project. This collaboration is an absolute priority for our company, with Leipzig as an important anchor point to further develop our business in the German market.”
Götz Ahmelmann, CEO of Mitteldeutsche Flughafen AG, added, “Leipzig/Halle Airport is a byword for successfully attracting businesses and innovation. The production of an environmentally friendly aircraft such as the D328eco perfectly matches our portfolio. The establishment of this production line marks a groundbreaking chapter for sustainable aviation, our airport, and the entire region.”
The new FAL will allow Deutsche Aircraft to meet the growing demand for regional aircraft while maintaining its focus on innovation and sustainability. With the support of Weerts Group, Deutsche Aircraft is poised to enhance its production capabilities and contribute to the future of regional aviation. The project also aligns with the company’s broader goals of reducing environmental impact and fostering transparency through customer engagement, as the facility will allow visitors to observe the assembly process firsthand.
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