Deutsche Aircraft and Senior plc sign life-of-programme contract

German Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Deutsche Aircraft and Senior plc (Senior), an international manufacturer of high-technology components and systems, have signed a life-of-programme contract. This contract comprises the design, development and manufacture of the Bleed Air System and the Engine Build Up (EBU) system for the innovative 40-seater D328eco regional turboprop aircraft. The Senior Aerospace EBU system will serve as the interface between the PW127XT-S engines and the aircraft.

The D328eco is set to redefine aviation standards as the most advanced, energy-efficient and cost-effective 40-seater regional turboprop on the market. Building upon the in-service D328® turboprop aircraft, it will feature advanced flight deck capabilities, a SAF-compatible airframe and highly efficient engines.

Both Senior and Deutsche Aircraft are committed to achieving net-zero sustainability goals as they play an important role in the decarbonisation of the aerospace industry. Senior has been given an A rating by CDP for its 2022 and 2023 work on climate disclosure and action and has also received an A rating for Supplier Engagement in 2022 and 2023. Deutsche Aircraft is designing the first 100% carbon-neutral aircraft final assembly line.

The design phase will be carried out at Senior's SSP facility in Burbank, California, in the US, while the manufacturing of the system will take place at the Senior Bird Bellows facility in Congleton, Cheshire, in the UK. The D328eco aircraft from Deutsche Aircraft will be manufactured at the new final assembly line at Leipzig/Halle Airport in Germany.