Dornier Do-228

The Dornier 228 is a twin engine short take-off and landing (STOL) airliner that was developed during the early 1980s, the aircraft has also been produced in India by HAL since 1985. Following the acquisition of Dornier by RUAG in 2002, a modernised version was produced as the Do228NG which featured a glass cockpit, longer range and a more efficient propeller. RUAG then sold the Do228 to General Atomics in 2021 who have continued to produce the type at the factory in Germany. A number of militaries have also acquired the Do228 as transports or maritime patrol aircraft.

The Italian Army operate a trio of Dornier 228s for paratrooper training, passenger transport and pilot training. The aircraft were modernised by RUAG during 2019 so that they could comply with European Aviation Safety Agency requirements for civilian airspace which came into effect during 2020.

The 28th Squadron of Italian Army Aviation will be bringing one of their Do228s to RIAT 2023 to appear as part of the static display. The squadron are known as the Tucanos are based at Viterbo; this will be their first appearance at an Air Tattoo since 2004.

Photo Credit: Tony Osborne

On display

Role
Static