The Technical University of Dresden has taken delivery of a research aircraft, the Diamond DA62 MPP. This twin-engine special mission platform represents an important step forward in the development of sustainable, climate-friendly aviation technologies.

The Institute of Lightweight Engineering and Polymer Technology (ILK) and the Institute of Aerospace Engineering (ILR) at TU Dresden will operate the aircraft as a flying laboratory to test fossil-free propulsion systems under real flight conditions. A central objective of the research programme is to replace one of the conventional engines with a hydrogen-based propulsion system.

“With the DA62 MPP, we are bridging the crucial gap between numerical simulation and real-world application,” explains Prof. Johannes Markmiller, chair of aircraft engineering at the ILR. “This flying testbed allows us to validate our aerodynamic models and propulsion concepts directly in flight, gathering data that is essential for the certification of future zero-emission aircraft.”

Prof. Maik Gude, chair of lightweight systems engineering and multi material design at the ILK, adds: “Sustainable aviation is not just about the engine; it is about the holistic integration of energy systems into the aircraft system. This aircraft provides us with the unique opportunity to demonstrate how lightweight hydrogen tank systems and complex structural components perform under the dynamic loads of actual flight operations.”

“The DA62 MPP demonstrates its full potential as a versatile multi-purpose platform,” adds Robert Rauert, sales manager, special mission department at Diamond Aircraft. “It enables the integration of advanced sensor systems and the testing of innovative propulsion concepts under real conditions, representing a true milestone for sustainable aviation.”

The DA62 MPP was selected by TU Dresden due to its modern composite airframe, efficient twin-engine configuration and outstanding endurance, which together create ideal conditions for technology demonstration and system integration in flight.

Key features of the DA62 MPP research platform include: multiple hardpoints for external sensor mounting on the nose and fuselage; separate mission equipment compartment for mounting computers and instruments; and the capability to test multiple technologies in real world conditions.