Dornier 228-100

Dornier · Germany · first flew 1981 · transport aircraft

The Dornier 228-100 is the short-fuselage variant of the innovative German commuter turboprop, notable for its TNT (Technology New Transport) supercritical wing and square-section fuselage. It can operate from very short and unprepared airstrips.

Recognition (WEFT)

W — WingsHigh-mounted, straight
E — Engines2 × turboprop, wing-mounted
F — FuselageSquare-section fuselage with distinctive rectangular windows
T — TailT-tail

WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.

Spot it by:

The square-section fuselage with slab sides and rectangular windows is the primary identifier; the TNT supercritical wing gives an unusual leading-edge sweep transition; T-tail and twin turboprops on a high wing complete the picture.

Specifications

Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.

History

Dornier developed the 228 from the Do 28 series, first flying the prototype in March 1981. The aircraft's defining feature is its supercritical 'New Technology Wing' (TNT), which produces exceptionally short takeoff and landing performance. The -100 seats up to 15 passengers; production passed to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in India and the design was later revived by RUAG and Dornier.

Variants

The Do 228-100 is the shorter variant; the -200 extends the fuselage by 1.52 m to seat up to 19 passengers; the -201 introduced further engine and systems upgrades; the -212 is the current production standard with FADEC engines.

Where you'll see it

Widely used by regional airlines, charter operators, coastguard, police, and military services worldwide; particularly important in India (operated by Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, and regional airlines) and in remote-area operations in Norway and island territories.

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