Posted on May 5th, 2025
Dornier Flugzeugwerke was a historic German aircraft manufacturer founded in 1914 by engineer and aviation pioneer Claudius Dornier in Friedrichshafen, Germany. With roots in military aviation during World War I, Dornier evolved into one of Europe’s most innovative aircraft developers, known for a broad range of military, experimental, and commercial designs.
Throughout the 20th century, Dornier produced several notable aircraft types, including flying boats, reconnaissance aircraft, and short-haul commercial jets. The company gained early fame for making the Dornier Wal flying boat and later models such as the Dornier Do 17 bomber and Dornier 228 utility aircraft.
In 1985, Dornier became part of the Daimler-Benz Aerospace AG (DASA) group, which operated alongside other German aerospace firms. The collaboration allowed for significant investment and integration across aeronautical engineering projects, including developing new jetliner families.
In 1996, Dornier was sold to Fairchild Aircraft, forming the joint venture known as Fairchild Dornier. The newly merged company focused on advancing regional jet design, primarily with developing and producing the Dornier 328 and 328JET series. These aircraft were manufactured in Oberpfaffenhofen, Germany, with a U.S.-based sales and support office in San Antonio, Texas.
The proposed Dornier 728 program was a next-generation regional jet that aimed to compete globally with offerings from Bombardier and Embraer. The program could not secure sufficient financing despite early enthusiasm and international interest. Canadian aerospace giant Bombardier conducted negotiations and due diligence, but the acquisition ultimately fell through. Fairchild Dornier filed for insolvency in 2002, ending new aircraft production.
Although Dornier is no longer active as a manufacturer, several of its aircraft—especially the Dornier 328 and 328JET—continue to operate globally in corporate, government, and regional airline service. These aircraft are valued for their versatility, short takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities, and performance in high-altitude or unprepared runway environments.
Today, legacy support for Dornier aircraft is maintained through specialized MRO (maintenance, repair, and overhaul) facilities and aftermarket parts programs. The Dornier brand name has also reemerged under new ventures seeking to relaunch regional aircraft using the Dornier 328 platform.
JetOptions Private Jets offers charter access to select Dornier aircraft within the VIP and group travel category. Aircraft such as the Dornier 328JET are available in executive configurations, suitable for short to mid-range missions requiring 30-seat capacity and full-cabin service amenities.
To learn more about available aircraft or receive a custom charter quote for a jetliner aircraft, request a flight estimate with JetOptions today.
