Potential Cirrus Killer? 5 Seat DA50 RG Sports Retractable Gear, Jet-Fueled Powerplant
This is going to get interesting... now that Cirrus is running out of the ideas left to it by its true creative genius, Alan Klapmeier, they're about to get some real competition... and from a company with a far more impressive rep for ethical behavior, as well as innovation.
Diamond is now officially taking the wraps off the much-anticipated carbon fiber DA50 RG with retractable gear. The airplane sports an extra-large cabin and excellent payload, powered by a 300hp Continental CD-300 jet fuel engine.
With one of the widest cabins in its class, the DA50 RG spoils both pilots and passengers with everything known from the twin-engine DA62: generous front seats with adjustable backrests, a 60/40 split folding three seat second row bench, easy access through the large gull wing doors and cargo door and exceptional leg, shoulder and head room. Luxury features abound throughout, including premium interiors in several styles, colors and materials, LED interior lighting and many optional features, such as removable right-hand control stick, oxygen system, electric air conditioning, TKS de-icing system, Garmin GCU 476 keypad or a built-in tablet mount.
Liqun Zhang, CEO Diamond Aircraft Austria: “We are very excited to be presenting the DA50 RG to the market. She is offering so much – space, efficiency, luxury, comfort, safety and retractable gear on a single piston aircraft that will make everyone really stand out. Plus, the extra benefits of operating a jet fuel powered aircraft - much lower emissions compared to leaded and even low leaded aviation fuels and saving many gallons of fuel and money due to excellent fuel efficiency. We are convinced that our all-new DA50 RG will be the new star on the piston single market for private pilots needing more seats and space and charter operators looking for a low-cost alternative.”
“Continental's CD-300 engine and valuable partnership with Diamond on the DA50 RG reinforces the global demand for jet-fueled piston aircraft in general aviation”, said Robert Stoppek, President & CEO of Continental Aerospace Technologies. “The luxurious and modern carbon fiber constructed DA50 RG paired with the 300 horsepower Jet-A engine is redefining the expectations for GA aircraft. Congratulations to Diamond Aircraft for introducing this fuel-efficient engine and up-to-date airplane that perfectly fits the renowned Diamond jet-fuel aircraft portfolio.”
The DA50 RG comes with a standard installed G1000 NXi flight deck with standard 3-axis GFC700 Automated Flight Control System combined with simple single lever power controls, offering great control and situational awareness reducing pilot workload.
The all carbon composite airframe incorporates advanced aerodynamics with the latest in passive safety technology for high performance, great efficiency and superior occupant protection. Further enhancing the dynamic and elegant lines, are the extensive choices of available colors and paint designs.
Diamond Aircraft has developed several features for the DA50 RG to ensure the best flight performance, such as specially designed hinged double slotted flaps for high lift and superior slow speed behavior as well as many drag reduction features. State-of-the-art brakes and wheels ensure the highest performance with minimum landing distance.
EASA TC is well on its way for late Summer 2020. FAA certification will start right after and is expected end of 2021.
EASA order books are open now with first deliveries commencing end of Q1/2021.
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