Test Pilot, Rob Johnson, Introduces the Newly Certified DA42 NG
On April 10th, 2010, Diamond Aircraft announced the FAA certification of the company’s latest development, the DA42 NG. In addition, the certification approved both IFR and FIKI operations. For existing DA42 owners and operators, the FAA also approved the conversion of TAE powered DA42s to the NG configuration, including the optional installation of the Garmin GFC 700 autopilot.
Developed as an evolution to the turbo-diesel powered DA42 TDI, the DA42 NG provides improved performance, increased gross weight, and better fuel efficiency than its predecessor. The aircraft features an all-carbon composite airframe, with a maximum take-off weight of 4,189 lbs compared to the DA42’s 3,935 lbs. Owners can choice to power the aircraft using either Lycoming’s 180hp IO-360 engines, or Austro’s 170hp AE-300 jet-fuel burning turbo-diesel powerplants.
Since its premiere in 2005, the DA42 has become one of the best selling twin-engine piston aircraft on the market. Popular with private pilots and flight training schools, Diamond now has over 600 DA42s operating worldwide. Building upon their network of customer support, the company expects to announce details soon regarding an all-inclusive maintenance program for DA42 NG owners and operators.
Copyright 2010, Aero-News Network, Inc., All Rights Reserved.
