Berne, Switzerland, 18 December 2013. Configured for passenger transport, the Dornier 228 fleet will be deployed to connect remote villages with regional hubs across Venezuela, substantially improving accessibility throughout the country. The ten aircraft comprise 8 new units of the Dornier 228 New Generation and 2 pre-owned units of the Dornier 228-212.

The Venezuelan government has become the first fleet customer of the Dornier 228 in Latin America since its relaunch in late 2010, purchasing ten units of the turboprop aircraft from the OEM, RUAG Aviation. Signed in Caracas, the contract encompasses the sale of aircraft as well as training, spare parts and ground support equipment.

“We are extremely proud to be able to support the Venezuelan government in improving travel to remote areas,” says Thomas K. Schilliger, Vice President of Commercial Programs at RUAG Aviation. “This new air service represents the fulfilment of an election promise made by President Maduro – with the Dornier 228 operating these routes, residents in formerly hard-to-reach areas will have greater access to medical care and government support, as well as all manner of modern resources.”