The traditional “big is beautiful” and linked to economies of scale has become a thing of the past. Not only does frequency on smaller aircraft attract a higher average yield and contribution to profits, but also the cost degression when moving to larger aircraft has been “broken” in many cases.

The most obvious example is at the other end of the aviation spectrum - the A380. Two highly efficient twin long haul aircraft offering the same total seat count in two flights as for one single A380 flights have the same total cost and hence less risk. Going lower, the CSeries (now A220) has triggered many airlines from larger units which those airlines thought were needed for the seat-mile cost to the smaller A220 as well as the E2 family. The right mix of seat-mile cost, trip-cost and capacity drives profitability.

The reduced risk of having to fill less seats on the smaller efficient aircraft compared to the pressure to sell on EACH flight a larger number seats has changed the way networks are being calculated. The smaller variants of the A320 and 737 families are seeing reduced sales, whilst the A220 grow.

The D328eco is uniquely positioned with its size to reduce the risk of high trip costs whilst already offering the right seat-mile cost. It therefore becomes the logical and profitable solution to replace slightly larger aircraft whether or irrespective if those are props, or even larger aircraft, if they are jets.

By introducing advanced flight deck capabilities, SAF compatible airframe, and more efficient engines, the D328eco will change the way we fly and help reduce our carbon footprint.

Small is Beautiful.