The Diamond DA42 Twin Star is a light, multi-purpose four-seat, twin-engine aircraft developed and manufactured by Diamond Aircraft Industries, with a significant presence and production facilities.
It holds the distinction of being Diamond's first twin-engine design and the first new European twin-engine aircraft in its category developed in over 25 years. Its first flight occurred in 2002, and it received certification in May 2004.
Key Features of the Diamond DA42 Twin Star:
- Engines: Typically powered by two Austro Engine E4 turbocharged diesel engines, produced by Diamond Aircraft Industries in Austria, each producing around 168 horsepower (125 kW). Earlier models used Thielert Centurion diesel engines. These engines are known for their fuel efficiency and the ability to run on Jet A1 fuel.
- Spacious Cabin: Designed to comfortably accommodate a pilot and three passengers in a well-appointed cabin.
- Good Range and Speed: Offers a range of approximately 1,210 nautical miles (2,250 km) and a maximum cruise speed of around 197 knots (365 km/h), making it suitable for regional travel within Austria and Europe.
- Pressurized Cabin: While the standard DA42 does not have a pressurized cabin, it offers comfortable flight at its certified ceiling.
- Short Runway Capability: Known for its good performance on shorter runways, common in many regional airports around Austria.
- Advanced Avionics: Typically equipped with the Garmin G1000 NXi avionics suite, providing a modern glass cockpit experience with integrated navigation, communication, and flight management systems.
- Composite Airframe: Constructed primarily of carbon composite materials, a hallmark of Diamond Aircraft produced in Austria, making it lightweight, strong, and corrosion-resistant.
- T-Tail Configuration: Features a T-tail empennage.
- Retractable Landing Gear: Equipped with a retractable tricycle landing gear system.
Technical Data (Approximate for DA42 with Austro Engines):
- Engines: 2 × Austro Engine E4 turbocharged diesel engine, 168 hp (125 kW) each (Made in Austria)
- Maximum Cruise Speed: 197 knots (365 km/h)
- Range: 1,210 nautical miles (2,250 km)
- Service Ceiling: 18,000 feet (5,486 meters)
- Cabin Height: 4.0 feet (1.22 meters) approximate
- Cabin Width: Not readily available, but designed for comfortable seating of four.
- Cabin Length: Not readily available.
- Typical Seating: 4 (including pilot)
- Empty Weight: 2,761 lbs (1,251 kg)
- Maximum Takeoff Weight: 4,407 lbs (1,999 kg)
Advantages of the Diamond DA42 Twin Star:
- Fuel Efficiency: The Austrian-made diesel engines offer significantly better fuel economy compared to traditional gasoline engines, important for cost-effective operations within Europe.
- Safety: The twin-engine configuration provides redundancy, enhancing safety in case of an engine failure, a key consideration for flights around the Alps and diverse European terrain. The composite airframe, a Diamond specialty, also offers excellent crashworthiness.
- Modern Avionics: The integrated Garmin G1000 NXi avionics suite provides advanced capabilities and enhanced situational awareness for the pilot, crucial for navigating European airspace.
- Versatility: Suitable for private travel within Austria and neighboring countries, flight training at numerous flight schools in the region, aerial surveillance (with specialized variants like the DA42 MPP), and multi-engine pilot training.
- Good Handling: Known for its precise controls and smooth handling characteristics, appreciated by pilots flying in potentially challenging weather conditions in Europe.
- Relatively Low Noise: The diesel engines and slow-turning propellers contribute to lower noise emissions, a benefit for operating near noise-sensitive areas in Austria and Europe.
- Ability to use Jet A1 Fuel: Simplifies logistics at airports throughout Europe where avgas might not be readily available.
Chartering a Diamond DA42 Twin Star with JETVIP from Vienna:
While the Diamond DA42 Twin Star is primarily used for private ownership, flight training, and specialized roles, there might be limited availability for charter in the Vienna region or through operators JETVIP partners with. Contact JETVIP to inquire about potential charter options for the Diamond DA42 Twin Star or similar aircraft that meet your travel needs within Austria and Europe. Our team, based here in Vienna, can explore the local market and provide you with available solutions.
Acquiring a Diamond DA42 Twin Star with JETVIP:
The Diamond DA42 Twin Star is a popular aircraft for private owners and flight schools in Austria and across Europe and is readily available on the new and pre-owned markets. If you are interested in acquiring a Diamond DA42 Twin Star, JETVIP, with our local expertise in Vienna, can assist you with the acquisition process. This includes:
- Sourcing Aircraft: Locating available Diamond DA42 Twin Star aircraft within Austria and Europe that meet your specifications.
- Evaluation: Assisting with pre-purchase inspections, potentially at Diamond's facilities in Austria or nearby, and ensuring the aircraft is in good condition.
- Transaction Management: Guiding you through the purchase process, leveraging our understanding of local regulations and procedures, to ensure a smooth and secure transaction.
Contact JETVIP in Vienna today to discuss your potential charter or acquisition interest in the Diamond DA42 Twin Star. Our team is ready to assist you with your aviation needs within Austria and beyond.