Deutsche Aircraft GmbH, a major player in the regional aviation industry, is implementing a strategic leadership change at the top of the company. Effective July 1, 2025, Nico Neumann, who most recently served as Co-CEO, will be appointed sole Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Deutsche Aircraft and Deutsche Aircraft Leipzig.
This step is the result of a carefully planned transition process, implemented since the end of 2024, aimed at sustainable growth. Dave Jackson, who led the company as CEO for over 19 years and contributed significantly to its turnaround, will focus on leadership at the Group level as CEO of the Deutsche Aircraft Group. He will continue to provide strategic support to Nico Neumann and the team in the operating units and contribute his extensive industry knowledge to shape the company's long-term vision.
An orderly transition for the future of the company
The change in leadership at Deutsche Aircraft is not a sudden decision, but the result of many years of collaboration and a strategically planned succession plan. Dave Jackson and Nico Neumann have worked closely together for over 15 years. This continuity at the management level is intended to ensure a seamless transition and safeguard the company's stability during a crucial phase of its development.
Nico Neumann, Co-CEO since January 2025 and previously Chief Operating Officer (COO), has contributed significantly to the implementation of the company's strategic initiatives. One of his most recent and visible achievements is the official launch of the first test aircraft of the groundbreaking D328eco. This next-generation regional aircraft, tailored to the specific requirements of modern air transport, forms the core of Deutsche Aircraft's future product range. Neumann's experience, spanning nearly two decades in aviation and program management at Deutsche Aircraft and its predecessor companies, is considered crucial for his new role. He has played a key role in shaping the company's production strategy, industrialization roadmap, and building a robust supply chain.
Dave Jackson will continue to contribute his in-depth industry knowledge and strategic vision at the Group level. Under his leadership as CEO, Deutsche Aircraft not only achieved a remarkable turnaround but also continued the worldwide operation of the Dornier 328 fleet. This laid a solid foundation for current growth and the development of new projects. His commitment at the Group level will enable him to drive overarching initiatives and the company's long-term vision, while Nico Neumann can focus on the operational management of the core areas.
Voices of Leadership: Trust and Vision
The communication of the leadership change by the people involved themselves underlines the internal coordination and mutual trust.
Dave Jackson, the incoming CEO of the Deutsche Aircraft Group, expressed his confidence in the appointment of his successor: "This is an inspiring moment for Deutsche Aircraft. After working closely with Nico Neumann, I am confident that the company will reach new heights with his strong leadership and alignment with our core values. I look forward to further developing our overarching strategic objectives and supporting Nico and the team in ensuring our long-term success." These words reflect a harmonious handover and emphasize the continuation of the company's values.
Nico Neumann, the designated CEO of Deutsche Aircraft, expressed his appreciation for his new role: "It is an honor to lead Deutsche Aircraft during this exciting phase of growth. As we prepare for the market launch of the D328eco, I will remain committed to our mission of advancing regional aviation." He also emphasized his anticipation of working with the dedicated team and reliable partners to realize our shared vision. His comments indicate a clear focus on the D328eco and the company's further positioning in the regional aircraft market.
Strategic priorities for 2025: Course for growth and innovation
In its further growth process, Deutsche Aircraft will consistently focus on four strategic pillars that form the foundation for future development:
- Driving the D328eco program forward: This is the company's core initiative. It involves the further development and industrialization of the next-generation regional aircraft. Designed as a modern and high-performance aircraft for regional transport, the D328eco is expected to play a key role in the renewal of aircraft fleets worldwide.
- Completion of the final assembly line (FAL): A key infrastructure project is the completion of the final assembly line at Leipzig/Halle Airport by the fourth quarter of 2025. This facility is crucial for the efficient production of the D328eco and underpins the company's production capacities in Germany.
- Strengthening strategic partnerships: Deepening collaboration with partners along the entire value chain is crucial. This will ensure the agility and robustness of the supply chain, which is essential in the complex aviation industry. A stable partner landscape contributes to risk minimization and efficiency.
- Driving innovation: The promotion of intelligent technologies is another focus. This includes the integration of new technologies into aircraft design and production processes to increase performance and shape the future of regional aviation.
Deutsche Aircraft at the Paris Air Show 2025: Global presence and vision
The Paris Air Show 2025 serves as an important global platform for Deutsche Aircraft to showcase its innovation roadmap and leadership. This international air show offers a unique opportunity to engage with industry leaders, potential customers, and stakeholders and share the company's vision for a connected future in regional aviation.
The presentation of the first D328eco test aircraft on this prominent stage is a strategic move to capture the attention of the global aviation community and generate interest in the new regional aircraft. Participation in such trade fairs is essential for companies like Deutsche Aircraft to establish new business relationships, maintain existing ones, and position themselves as a leading provider in a highly competitive market. The decisions made and presentations made here can significantly influence the company's future success.
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