EBACE: 328 and Turkish Technic complete first joint conversion project

328 have announced that it has successfully completed in partnership with Turkish Technic an extensive Gulfstream GIV interior refurbishment for the Turkish Government.

This marks the first project in collaboration with Turkish Technic which forms part of a wider agreement to work together on design and certification projects. The first collaboration proved so successful that it grew from the original remit, to undertake simple modifications to the aircraft and support certification of design and materials selected by Turkish Technic to a much more complex project.

328 supported a complete replacement of the in flight entertainment system (IFE) which involved sourcing and supporting the installation of a Rockwell Collins HDTV system. In addition 328 designed and manufactured the system’s harness and controls. An existing divan was taken out and replaced by two aft and forward facing business class seats. The removal required a side panel to be manufactured matching the existing style of the interior.

328 designed, manufactured, and certified the side panel in its Oberpfaffenhofen facility before shipping it to Turkish Technic which installed the part on site.

Turkish Technic were also responsible for the renewal of upholstery, veneer, and a complete new galley layout. The project required 328 design engineers to spend many weeks with Turkish Technic at its Istanbul based facility to oversee the work.

328 entered into the arrangement with Turkish Technic to work together on design projects in January 2012. Intended as a knowledge sharing partnership the agreement maximises 328’s extensive experience in VIP conversions along with its collection of over 200 STCs (Supplemental Type Certificates) and minor modifications on aircraft types ranging from Hawker 125’s to Airbus A320’s and larger aircraft, in addition to rotary machines.

Managing director of 328 Dave Jackson said: “This is major milestone for our team and another important step to further develop our business capabilities on aircraft beside the Dornier 328. This project has proved highly successful and we are already in discussions with the team about the next project’s requirements.”

Can Sasmaz, vice president technical, from Turkish Technic said: ”Turkish Technic and 328 have developed an excellent working relationship and we are impressed by the company’s outstanding conversion capabilities. As aviation is continuing to expand in Turkey we value sharing their experience as we work towards improving our own in-house knowledge and experience. We will continue to work with them to explore future projects.”