Dornier 328 type certificate holder 328 Support Services has signed a letter of intent with AMC Aviation in North Carolina to develop a multi-role/multi-mission humanitarian version of the D328 turboprop. Working with partners Jetran International and Jetcor Aviation Services, the group has committed to an initial three aircraft in the conversion programme.

The first two D328s are ex-Corning Inc aircraft and are due to enter modification and maintenance this month at 328's Oberpfaffenhofen airport base near Munich and be ready for delivery in early 2019. A third aircraft with the same modifications and additional systems plus air operable aft cargo door and oversized windows on either side of the aircraft will follow.

The initial programme of work on the first two 328s will cover C1 through to C4 maintenance checks, upgrades to the existing avionic systems, modifications such as ADS-B Out, dual flight management and satcom with wi-fi and satellite tracking capabilities.

The installation of a gravel kit for better unpaved runway operations and provisioning for systems including a retractable turret for EO/IR camera installations will provide further enhancements.

The Dornier 328s will be delivered with 12 different interior options for a variety of passenger, cargo and medevac roles. In each the toilet and galley system will be relocated to the forward portion of the aircraft to enable aft loading and air dropping of cargo.

"We are delighted that AMC Aviation and its partners share our vision about this aircraft and the multiple roles it can serve," says 328 CEO Dave Jackson.

AMC general manager Chris Stern adds: "The Dornier 328 is the perfect rugged and versatile platform, and is extremely well suited for our novel approach to bringing true multi-mission capability and operational safety to humanitarian operators in difficult environments."