The Dornier Do 28D Skyservant, sometimes referred to as the Dornier 128, is a twin-engine, STOL-capable utility aircraft developed in Germany by Dornier Flugzeugwerke. It evolved from earlier Do 28 designs and was specifically tailored for short takeoff and landing operations, often in rugged and undeveloped regions.

First flown in 1966, the Do 28D retained the high-wing configuration and fixed tricycle landing gear of its predecessors, emphasizing simplicity, reliability, and excellent field performance. It became widely used by military and civil operators alike, offering flexibility as a transport, medevac, and liaison platform.

Key Specifications (Do 28D-2 Skyservant)

• Crew: 1–2.
• Capacity: Up to 13 passengers or 1,450 kg (3,200 lb) of cargo.
• Length: 11.49 m (37 ft 8 in).
• Wingspan: 15.55 m (51 ft 0 in).
• Height: 4.61 m (15 ft 1.5 in).
• Max Takeoff Weight (MTOW): ~4,000 kg (8,818 lb).
• Engines: 2 × Lycoming IGSO-540-K1A5 piston engines (340 hp each).
• Cruise Speed: ~265 km/h (165 mph).
• Range: ~1,150 km (715 mi).
• Ceiling: ~7,620 m (25,000 ft).

Notable Features

• STOL Performance: Designed to operate from unprepared airstrips as short as 400 meters.
• High-Wing, Boxy Fuselage: Provided excellent lift and allowed for a large cargo/passenger compartment.
• Fixed Gear: Simplified maintenance and reduced weight, ideal for austere environments.
• Wide Cabin Access: Large rear doors enabled easy loading of cargo or stretchers for medevac.
• Durability: Built with simplicity and robustness in mind, with low operating costs.

Operators & Usage

• Military Use: Widely used by the German Air Force and other NATO and allied forces for light transport and training.
• Civil Operators: Utilized by humanitarian groups, bush pilots, and regional operators in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
• Special Missions: Variants were outfitted for surveillance, paratroop training, and even aerial photography.
• Legacy: Though retired from most front-line service, the Do 28D remains a cult favorite among bush pilots and vintage aircraft enthusiasts.