On 2 May, the successful first flight of the Do228 NXT demonstrator aircraft took place. This symbolises the beginning of a new chapter in the history of the multi-role aircraft and key moment for aircraft production in Germany. The latest version of the proven turboprop aircraft took off to the skies almost 45 years after the first flight of the iconic Do228.

For the entire team at General Atomics AeroTec Systems (GA-ATS), the company behind the resurrection of the Do228, the first flight was a very special and emotional moment. After parent company General Atomics Group acquired the Oberpfaffenhofen facility from RUAG about five years ago, a new production line was established, numerous partners and suppliers were brought on board and the series production of the Do228 NXT was restarted. Now, the Do228 NXT demonstrator has taken off for the first time, rewarding the team's years of hard work.

“Taking the Do228 NXT into the air for the first time was an extraordinary experience,” says Martina Hierle, test pilot and programme manager at GA-ATS. “The aircraft performed flawlessly. You can immediately sense what this aircraft is capable of and that the Do228 NXT is ready for demanding missions around the world. This successful first flight is the result of incredible dedication and hard work from the entire team, and it proves that every effort was absolutely worth it. With the Do228 NXT, we now have a modern aircraft that carries the legacy of the Do228 into the future.”

Over the next few weeks, additional production test flights will be conducted with the Do228 NXT demonstrator aircraft to gather important data and evaluate its flight characteristics. This includes testing at different altitudes, speeds, flight patterns, takeoffs and landings, as well as various operational scenarios.

Following test flights, the aircraft is scheduled to be officially unveiled to the global public in the summer of 2026. Following the premiere event, the Do228 NXT demonstrator will be displayed at numerous trade shows and events. The aircraft's first trade show appearance is planned for ILA 2026, which will take place from 10-14 June in Berlin, Germany. Following that, the Do228 NXT will make its international debut at the end of July, when it will be on display at the Farnborough Airshow in the United Kingdom from 20-24 July.

Craig Simpson, managing director of GA-ATS, underlines the significance of this milestone: “The first flight of the NXT demonstrator is the culmination of years of dedicated work across all departments. It is a true reflection of the expertise and commitment of our entire team in Oberpfaffenhofen and a moment we are all incredibly proud of. The Do228 NXT is not just an upgrade, it is our answer to the demands of modern aviation, and we are proud to bring it to market. That's why we're looking forward to showcasing the aircraft during the next months at numerous trade shows, events, customer visits and demo tours. We want to show the aircraft and its features to the world, as there is widespread international interest in the Do228 NXT.”