The OEM of the Do228, General Atomics AeroTec Systems (GA-ATS), is currently manufacturing the new and modernized version of the multi-role aircraft - the Do228 NXT at its facility in Germany. With its established design, special flight characteristics and operational flexibility, the aircraft is ideally suited to the versatile challenges in South America, Central America and the Caribbean.
Do228 NXT production on schedule - The success story of the aircraft continues
The Do228 is a proven aircraft model that has been manufactured for over 40 years and is successfully in service all around the world. In 2021, the Do228 program and the production site in Oberpfaffenhofen, Germany, was acquired by General Atomics – an international technology group headquartered in San Diego, USA with extensive experience in manufacturing unmanned aircraft systems.
The acquisition marked the start of preparations for the development and series production of the new Do228 NXT. Following the construction of a modern final assembly line in recent years and the signing of important supply contracts, the production of individual components began in 2024. For example, the wings of the Do228 NXT are manufactured by GA-ATS itself on site.
By strengthening the supply chain, the OEM ensures the reliable availability of new aircraft and spare parts. With this major investment, General Atomics AeroTec underlines its full commitment to the Do228 NXT.
Final assembly of the first Do228 NXT has also begun this year and progresses as planned. The first aircraft will be used as a showcase aircraft for trade fairs and customer appointments as well as a test platform for further optimization. The first deliveries of the Do228 NXT are planned for 2026 with numerous interested parties around the world.
Many technical optimizations
Many technical innovations and optimizations were implemented for the series production of the Do228 NXT. New features include a completely new interior design, modern LED lights in the cabin, the installation of a new electric air conditioning system and a new AHRS (Attitude and Heading Reference System), among others.
The rectangular cabin cross-section of the Do228 NXT offers more space for passengers and allows for example the installation of operator consoles. Depending on customer requirements, the multi-role aircraft can be equipped with a wide range of sensors and mission equipment.
An aircraft ideally suited to the requirements in South America
With its capabilities and optimizations, the new Do228 NXT has been tailored specifically to the international markets. These include South America, Central America and the Caribbean in particular.
The Do228 NXT is well-suited for operations in the region, as there are demanding weather conditions and many airfields with unpaved runways. The aircraft's ability to operate reliably in such conditions makes it an ideal solution for accessing remote communities across South and Central America as well as small Caribbean islands. Noteworthy is in particular the STOL (short landing and take-off) capability of the Do228 NXT as it enables landings and take-offs on runways less than 500 meters long.
With up to 19 passenger seats or over 2,500 kg cargo capacity, the Do228 NXT can be used as a light transport aircraft to establish an important connection to remote regions and small islands. The quick conversion between the different cabin layouts gives the operator great flexibility in his operations.
With a range of over 2000 km, the Do228 NXT can cover relatively long distances. In South America, for example a flight from Santiago de Chile to Buenos Aires or from São Paulo to Montevideo is easily within the range of the turboprop aircraft. In the Caribbean, for example a flight from the Bahamas to Puerto Rico or from Jamaica to Panama is possible.
Cooperation with experienced local partners
In order to offer customers in South America the best possible support, GA-ATS has signed important cooperation agreements with local partners.
To intensify sales activities in the South America region, the company has established a cooperation with two experienced sales partners. In Brazil, General Atomics AeroTec Systems is working with Powerpack Representações e Comércio Ltda, which has been partnering with the General Atomics Group for a long time, while the rest of South and Central America is serviced by sales partner HTS Services GmbH.
Both companies have extensive sales experience, specialist expertise in the aviation sector and in-depth knowledge of regional markets and requirements – making them the ideal partners to promote the Do228 NXT in South America.
The Do228 aircraft has already proven itself successfully in operations in the region, for example in Mexico, Chile, Argentina, Martinique or Colombia. It has also performed effectively on the other continents.
With its strengthened supply chain, technical optimizations, ideal capabilities for the region and strong distribution partners, the Do228 NXT is ideally suited for operations in South America, Central America and the Caribbean and is enjoying increasing interest in the region.
