First Flight of the Dornier Seastar with ACM Aerospace on Board
The successful maiden flight of the amphibian aircraft, the Dornier Seastar, with the prototype SN1003 took place just a few days ago. Following several years of development, parts from ACM Aerospace were on board for the first time, including cabin and cockpit components.
It's a real success story: The maiden flight of the new Dornier Seastar was finally accomplished on March 28th, 2020 following several years of development. The flight lasted around 31 minutes and was operated with the prototype SN1003.
It was the first time in the company's history that international aerospace supplier ACM Aerospace developed and manufactured the cockpit design of an aircraft. The cabin design was also developed by the engineers of ACM Aerospace's research and development department. Head test pilot Wolfram Cornelius says: “The modern avionics system is an impressive reflection of the state-of-the-art character of the cockpit design and serves as the foundation for further development of the aircraft”.
The development period spanned more than two years and was dominated by special challenges. More than 30 components were developed, certified and manufactured. The design of the flight compartment interior is largely influenced by the primary structure as well as the instruments installed in the cockpit. ACM Aerospace has succeeded in creating a modern, lightweight and efficient design in line with the highest demands of aviation under these circumstances. “We are filled with pride to be on board for such a prestigious Dornier project. The cockpit and cabin design in particular are essential for the operational and commercial success of an aircraft. This is why it is especially important that a significant milestone is set here.” says Roger Hohl, Managing Director of ACM Aerospace.
About the Seastar
The Seastar is an amphibian aircraft developed from scratch by Dornier in Oberpfaffenhofen. The aircraft's operational concept is based on cost-effective short-haul flights between land and water. The maximum take-off weight (MTOW) is 5,100 kilograms and the maximum cruise speed is around 180 knots (approx. 330 km/h). The Seastar can travel a distance of 900 nautical miles, which is around 1,550 kilometres. The aircraft is likely to be marketed in four configurations, including passenger version, cargo version and VIP or special mission aircraft.
ACM Aerospace
ACM is an aviation company that specialises in the development, production and overhaul of the entire aircraft cabin interior. This is where German engineering is combined with an understanding of quality and practicality. ACM creates designs which are as cost-effective as they are aesthetic, while at the same time fulfilling all legal aviation requirements. Thanks to the many years of experience of its internal quality management and assurance team, it counts both small aircraft manufacturers and the largest global airlines amongst its clientèle. Through its corporate group, the company also has various international locations including Dubai, Toulouse, St. Nazaire and Bangalore, in addition to the Memmingen site.