Jungheinrich Delivers Integrated PowerCube and AutoVNA Logistics System for D328eco Production

Jungheinrich has officially handed over the automated logistics centre at Leipzig/Halle Airport to Deutsche Aircraft. The logistics centre is a key component of Deutsche Aircraft's industrialisation strategy for the D328eco programme, providing the automated material supply required to support future production ramp-up.

In a pioneering implementation, the Jungheinrich PowerCube automated compact bin storage system and an automated very narrow aisle warehouse (AutoVNA) operate together under a single control system. On a footprint of only approximately 210 square meters, PowerCube accommodates more than 6,500 containers across 26 levels, while the AutoVNA manages 624 pallets in two aisles.

Within the PowerCube, 16 shuttles move bins between storage locations and five ergonomic workstations. Frequently used components are automatically stored on lower levels due to higher throughput, while less frequently accessed parts gradually move to upper levels. The storage area operates in a reduced-oxygen environment to minimize fire risk. In the very narrow aisle warehouse, two EKX 516ka trucks autonomously store and retrieve Euro pallets, with conveyor technology connecting the receiving area, six picking stations and the shipping area.

Sebastian Böhnl, Vice President Operations & Production at Deutsche Aircraft, stated:

"As we prepare to ramp up production towards a capacity of up to 48 aircraft per year, the D328eco programme requires a logistics infrastructure that can scale alongside it. The Jungheinrich PowerCube and AutoVNA provide exactly that, ensuring every part is available when it is needed for assembly, all within a significantly smaller footprint than any other solution we evaluated."

Dr. Tobias Harzer, Member of the Board for Automation at Jungheinrich, stated:

"The PowerCube maximizes storage density for small parts in the smallest possible space, while the very narrow aisle warehouse keeps pallets with larger components readily available close to production. Each system leverages its respective strengths, and together under a unified control system they create a material supply solution that minimizes space requirements while supporting future production increases."

The facility has been designed for two-shift operation and can be expanded to three shifts. At full capacity, between 250 and 350 employees will manufacture up to 48 aircraft per year at the Leipzig/Halle site, establishing it as the industrial centre of excellence for the D328eco programme.