General Atomics AeroTec Systems GmbH (GA-ATS) proudly announces the successful commencement of the final assembly of the first wing for the new Do228 NXT series aircraft. This marks a significant milestone in the production process, highlighting GA-ATS commitment to excellence and innovation in the aerospace industry.
Strategic decision to strengthen quality and the supply chain
One of the most notable changes in the production of the Do228 NXT series is the relocation of the final assembly of control surfaces and wing structures back to the companies’ facilities in Oberpfaffenhofen. This strategic decision ensures that the highest level of expertise is applied, with stringent quality control measures in place to guarantee a stable supply of the Do228 NXT aircraft and its components.
Prototype phase of the wings successful - series production begins
Earlier this year, GA-ATS announced the successful production and precise measurement of a prototype panel, paving the way for the manufacturing of the original panels. These original material panels have now arrived in the facility in Oberpfaffenhofen, where they will be meticulously shaped and assembled into a wing at the newly upgraded final assembly line. The enhanced in-house assembly process is set to deliver wings of unparalleled precision and quality.
“The relocation of production back to Oberpfaffenhofen is a significant step for us,” said Florian Rohe, Managing Director of GA-ATS. “With our in-house expertise and unwavering commitment to quality and precision, we are capable of producing components that meet the highest standards of the industry, ensuring reliable and timely deliveries of the Do228 NXT to our customers."
Proven design enables impressive performance
The wing design, which has evolved over nearly 50 years, with its supercritical profile, is renowned for its unparalleled aerodynamic efficiency, exceptional performance and low fuel consumption. It enables a broad speed envelope from 240KTAS down to 80KTS approach speed. At the core of the wing’s structure are spar boxes, which are constructed from precisely machined aluminum panels.
During the manufacturing process, a substantial amount of material is meticulously removed to achieve the desired lightweight structure without compromising strength. These aluminum panels are then hydraulically formed to acquire their final aerodynamic shape, followed by heat treatments and surface protection for the subsequent assembly steps. The resulting surface is nearly rivet-free, ensuring optimal, undisturbed airflow. Combined with the triangular shape, which reduces induced drag, optimizes overall performance, particularly for Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) operations.
For General Atomics AeroTec Systems, this achievement represents another major step forward in the production of the Do228 NXT series, reinforcing the General Atomics groups leadership in aerospace innovation and quality.
General Atomics AeroTec Systems at Sanicole Airshow 2024
On September 21 and 22, 2024, the International Sanicole Airshow, one of the largest airshows in Europe, will take place in Belgium. General Atomics AeroTec Systems will be on site with an exhibition stand and a Do228 in the Aircraft Display. Visit us in Belgium at the Sanicole Airbase in Hechtel-Eksel!
