(SeaPRwire) – Cairns, May 19, 2026 — Renowned German regional aviation firm Deutsche Aircraft is poised to make a prominent debut at the 2026 Regional Aviation Association of Australia (RAAA) Convention, as it ramps up engagement with the Australian regional aviation market when the event takes place in Cairns next month.
Deutsche Aircraft holds the Type Certificate for the D328 series and is the developer of the D328eco twin-engine regional airliner, which the company views as an ideal fit for operators working to address the challenges of connecting Australian regional communities.
The firm has designated the RAAA Convention as a foundational event for establishing its long-term presence in the Australian and Oceania regional aviation market.
Nils Heuer, Director of Global Sales at Deutsche Aircraft, notes the RAAA Convention is critical for nurturing long-lasting relationships in what is a core strategic market for the company.
“Our first participation in the RAAA Convention marks a key milestone for Deutsche Aircraft in Australia and Oceania,” Heuer says. “Australia is home to one of the most operationally demanding regional aviation environments globally — and that is exactly where the D328eco can deliver tangible value. From linking remote communities to supporting FIFO operations and low-density regional routes, Australia’s operating environment requires aircraft that are versatile, reliable and efficient. Deutsche Aircraft has deep respect for operators in the region and we are dedicated to building long-term partnerships with industry stakeholders.”
An Appropriately Scaled Solution for Australia’s Regional Aviation Industry
The 40-seat D328eco twin turboprop is positioned as a high-value option for regional operators looking to replace aging turboprop fleets and optimise network cost efficiency.
Equipped with SAF-compatible PW127XT-S turbines, the D328eco has a maximum cruise speed of 324 KTAS and a range of 655 nautical miles. The aircraft also offers 800-metre short takeoff and landing (STOL) capacity at 70% loading, and is certified for use on unimproved runways. These capabilities are particularly well-suited for Australia’s remote airfields with limited infrastructure.
“The D328eco was designed with markets like Australia front of mind: long travel distances, isolated communities, fluctuating weather conditions and a high demand for reliability and efficiency,” Heuer states. “For many operators, the D328eco is the logical next step when replacing aging turboprop fleets. It will cut maintenance costs while boosting operational reliability and improving the passenger experience. I see the aircraft supporting both fleet renewal and long-term growth across segments including FIFO.”
A Partnership-Prioritised Approach to Regional Connectivity
While showcasing the D328eco is a core priority, Heuer believes that the 2026 RAAA Convention presents an even more valuable opportunity for the company. During the event, Deutsche Aircraft will proactively engage with potential partners across the entire Australian aviation ecosystem, including maintenance, support and training service providers.
“We are here to both learn from industry peers and share our insights,” Heuer explains. “Delegates can expect transparent, two-way conversations, updates on the progress of the D328eco programme, and a clear willingness to listen to operator requirements. Our presence at the RAAA Convention reflects a long-term commitment to the region, not just a one-off appearance.”
Regional aviation is the core focus of Deutsche Aircraft. The company holds the view that fleet renewal is not only about introducing new aircraft, but also supporting long-term network stability and economic resilience for the communities these services connect.
“The RAAA Convention is a trusted forum where real operational challenges are discussed openly and constructively,” Heuer adds. “We are entering the Australian market with a partnership-focused mindset. Our team will be listening closely, learning on an ongoing basis and making a long-term commitment, with the goal of becoming a trusted partner in Australia’s regional aviation future.”
2026 RAAA Convention Overview
Hundreds of delegates from the regional aviation industry will gather at the Cairns Convention Centre from 16 to 18 June for the biennial RAAA Convention, which is widely recognized as a flagship event on the Australian regional aviation calendar.
The 2026 program will feature keynote addresses from high-profile speakers including federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King, and Shadow Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Bridget McKenzie.
Attached Resources
- D328eco
- Nils Heuer
Media Enquiries: Deutsche Aircraft Gmbh +49 (0) 152 5130 8264 melek.mervemutlu@deutscheaircraft.com
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