Dornier Do 228

The Dornier 228 is the ultimate ‘Swiss Army Knife’ of the twin-turboprop world. Renowned for its extraordinary Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) capabilities, it was designed with a unique supercritical wing (TNT - Tragflügel Neuer Technologie) that allows it to operate from short, unpaved, or high-altitude strips that would be impossible for other aircraft in its class. For the GA buyer or special missions operator, it offers unmatched versatility and a rugged, square-fuselage design optimized for cargo and utility.

Key Features for GA Buyers

• STOL Performance: Can operate from runways as short as 2,500 ft at MTOW, making it a favorite for remote operations and island hopping.
• Square Fuselage Design: The rectangular cabin cross-section maximizes usable space for cargo pallets or executive seating, providing more ‘shoulder room’ than oval-shaped competitors.
• Large Cargo Door: Features a massive rear cargo door (standard on most variants) that allows for easy loading of bulky freight or medical stretchers.
• Rugged Reliability: Designed for a 99% dispatch reliability, with a trailing-link landing gear that soaks up hits from unprepared surfaces.

Trade-offs

• Unpressurized: Unlike its successor (the 328), the 228 is unpressurized. This limits its comfortable cruise altitude to 10,000–12,000 ft, though its service ceiling is much higher.
• Noise Profile: The Garrett TPE331 engines are famously high-pitched and loud, both on the ramp and in the cabin, though 5-bladed composite props on the ‘NG’ models help significantly.
• Speed: While fast for a utility aircraft, its 223-knot cruise is slower than dedicated executive turboprops like the Beechcraft King Air.