Dornier Aircraft

The Dornier 228 is a 19-seat twin-turboprop STOL utility aircraft built in Germany and India since 1981. About 370 were produced (245 in Germany, 125 by HAL in India). Its supercritical wing generates high lift at low speeds, enabling operations from unprepared, unpaved, and grass surfaces. Primary roles include regional airline service, cargo, maritime patrol, and military transport — especially in hot-and-high environments.

The Dornier 228 NG (New Generation) variant is produced by GA-ATS (formerly RUAG) in Germany, featuring five-blade propellers, glass cockpit, improved avionics, and extended range. HAL continues production in India. The NG variant modernizes the proven airframe with current avionics while retaining the STOL capabilities and 99% reliability rate. Original Garrett TPE331 engines remain standard.

The Do 228 competes with the Beechcraft 1900, Let L-410, and Viking Twin Otter. Its key advantages are STOL capability from unprepared surfaces, compact size for remote airstrips, and low operational costs. The Twin Otter carries more payload; the Beech 1900 is pressurized and faster. The Do 228 suits operators who need to reach unimproved fields in challenging terrain with 19 passengers or equivalent cargo.