A precise replica of the Dornier 328 cockpit
The UpLift Dornier 328-100 (D-CUPL) is a research aircraft in our fleet that serves as a flying testbed for climate-compatible aviation technologies. To support these research activities, the Air Vehicle Simulator (AVES) centre was expanded in 2025 to include a true-to-life UpLift D328 simulator as an on-the-ground testbed. This enables our test pilots to precisely prepare for flight trials and serves as a powerful research platform for new developments in the regional aircraft sector.
The UpLift D328 simulator is based on the airframe of a retired Dornier 328, which was converted for use as a simulation cockpit in close collaboration with the aircraft manufacturer Deutsche Aircraft. It combines original hardware with generic instruments and controls to realistically replicate the cockpit environment. The simulator is versatile and supports current research topics on flight operations, avionics, human-machine interaction and flight control – particularly in the evaluation of new technologies for turboprop short-haul aircraft.
A distinctive feature of the UpLift D328 simulator is its adjustable controls, which offer active force feedback, further reinforcing the impression of a real cockpit. The external view is provided via three high-resolution screens covering the cockpit crew’s relevant field of vision.
In addition to the generic representation of the D328 avionics systems, the simulator is the only module within the AVES centre to support integration of the real flight hardware Garmin G5000 PRIME. This opens up further research possibilities, particularly with regard to the operation of future regional aircraft. The combination of realistic simulation and advanced technology makes the UpLift D328 simulator a valuable tool for aviation research and the development of innovative new solutions.
Link:
German Aerospace Center (Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt; DLR)
Institute of Flight Systems
E-Mail contact-dlr@DLR.de
