Dornier 328 Executive Jet Specifications & Booking

The Fairchild Dornier 328JET originated from Fairchild Dornier in Germany with production of the Fairchild Dornier 328JET starting in 1996. It is used in various roles including executive transport and freight. It continues to set industry benchmarks with its cutting-edge features and superior performance.

Overview of the Dornier 328 Executive Jet

The Dornier 328 Executive Jet is a versatile, turboprop-powered aircraft designed for executive travel, cargo transport, and special missions. Manufactured by Fairchild-Dornier, it took its first flight in 1993 and received certification in 1994.

Technical Specifications

The Dornier 328 Executive Jet features the following technical specifications:

• Dimensions:
  • Length: 20.6 meters (67 feet 7 inches)
  • Wingspan: 19.4 meters (63 feet 8 inches)
  • Height: 5.1 meters (16 feet 9 inches)
• Weight:
  • Empty weight: 6,400 kilograms (14,110 pounds)
  • Maximum takeoff weight: 10,000 kilograms (22,046 pounds)
• Engines:
  • Type: Garrett TPE331-12R-501G turboprop
  • Thrust: 1,100 horsepower each
  • Fuel efficiency: 0.45 pounds per horsepower-hour
• Performance:
  • Maximum speed: Mach 0.27 (183 knots or 338 km/h)
  • Range: 2,000 nautical miles (3,704 kilometers) with a full fuel load
  • Cruising altitude: 25,000 feet (7,620 meters)
• Capacity:
  • Passengers: Up to 9 people in a typical executive configuration
  • Cargo: Capacity for up to 2,500 kilograms (5,510 pounds) of cargo or palletized freight
  • Crew: Two pilots and one flight attendant (optional)

Design and Features

The Dornier 328 Executive Jet boasts an innovative design that combines modern aerodynamics, advanced materials, and cutting-edge onboard systems. Its distinctive T-tail and raked wingtips enhance its handling and stability, while the cabin features a spacious, comfortable environment for passengers.

History and Development

The Dornier 328 Executive Jet's development began in the late 1980s as a response to growing demand for versatile, short-to-medium-range aircraft. Key milestones include:

• First flight: December 1993
• Certification: September 1994
• Entry into service: 1995
• Significant upgrades or variants: The Dornier 328 was offered in various configurations, including cargo and special mission variants.

Operational Use

The Dornier 328 Executive Jet is primarily used for executive travel, cargo transport, and special missions. Some notable users include:

• Airlines: Several regional airlines operate the Dornier 328 for short-to-medium-range flights.
• Organizations: Government agencies, emergency response teams, and environmental monitoring organizations utilize the aircraft's versatility and range.
• Missions: The Dornier 328 has been used for humanitarian aid transport, search and rescue operations, and environmental monitoring missions.

Interesting Facts

Here are three interesting facts about the Dornier 328 Executive Jet:

• Famous flights: The Dornier 328 was used for several record-breaking flights in its early years, including a non-stop flight from Berlin to New York.
• Innovative design: The aircraft's T-tail and raked wingtips were designed to reduce drag and improve handling at high speeds.
• Pop culture appearances: The Dornier 328 has appeared in several films, TV shows, and video games as a representative of advanced technology or futuristic transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Dornier 328 Executive Jet unique?

The Dornier 328's unique combination of turboprop power, advanced aerodynamics, and versatile configuration make it an ideal choice for a wide range of applications.

How much does the Dornier 328 Executive Jet cost?

The estimated cost of a new or used Dornier 328 Executive Jet can vary greatly depending on factors such as configuration, customization, and age. Prices typically range from $5 million to $15 million.

What is the range of the Dornier 328 Executive Jet?

The Dornier 328 has a maximum range of approximately 2,000 nautical miles (3,704 kilometers) with a full fuel load. This makes it well-suited for regional and transcontinental flights.

Which airlines operate the Dornier 328 Executive Jet?

A number of regional airlines and cargo carriers operate the Dornier 328, including: Lufthansa Cargo, FedEx Express, UPS Airlines, and others. The aircraft's versatility and range make it an attractive option for these operators.

Is the Dornier 328 Executive Jet still in service?

Yes, although the production run ended in the early 2000s, many Dornier 328s remain in service today. The aircraft's durability and adaptability have made it a popular choice for a wide range of operators.

Conclusion

The Dornier 328 Executive Jet is a versatile, high-performance aircraft that has found success across a range of applications. Its advanced design, impressive performance capabilities, and ability to adapt to various configurations make it an attractive option for both passengers and cargo operators alike. While the production run ended some years ago, the Dornier 328 remains an important part of aviation history and continues to find new uses in modern times.