Fixed Pitch Diamond May Have BIG Market With Flight Schools and Bargain Flyers

Diamond is showing its new Diamond Star DA40-FP this week. This fixed pitch version of the popular DA40-180 Diamond Star addresses the specific requirements of high utilization operators. Diamond is currently conducting target customer focus group sessions to evaluate and finetune the FP. Several flight schools are participating in this process to establish and prioritize their needs and preferences. The FP has been designed specifically to lower both acquisition and operating cost, minimize inspection and maintenance times and maximize dispatch reliability.

The cost savings are in the form of specification changes related mainly to the powerplant. Whereas the current DA40 Diamond Star features the fuel injected Lycoming IO360 M1A 180 hp engine, hydraulic prop governor and a constant speed propeller, the Diamond Star FP is powered by the carburated Lycoming O360A4D 180 hp engine, driving a fixed pitch metal Sensenich propellor.

In addition to a significant reduction in purchase price, these changes also have a welcome impact on overhaul costs. The overhaul costs of the O360 are approximately $5,000 lower than those of the fuel injected IO360 engine and elimination of the governor and constant speed prop overhauls, further reduce operating costs. Diamond has also introduced many other modifications, including a high capacity sealed plenum engine cooling system, as well as improved access to all regular powerplant and airframe maintenance items.

The efficient aerodynamic design of the all composite Diamond Star results in minimal performance reduction vs the constant speed DA40. The sea level climb performance exceeds 900 fpm, the speed exceeds 140 knots and the DA40's short take-off distances have increased by only approximately 12%. The high efficiency means that it is possible to operate with reduced power settings, thereby decreasing fuel consumption and realizing further operating cost savings.

The DA40-180FP will be offered with all currently available avionics configurations, including the recently introduced glass cockpits. With the FP joining the current 2 seat DA20-C1, the IFR 4 seat DA40-180 and the soon to be certified twin engine DA42 Twin Star, Diamond offers the most comprehensive and versatile family of modern airplanes. Although conceived primarily for commercial flight training operations and smaller flight schools, Diamond expects the "40FP" to also attract significant interest from private individuals, especially those wanting to place their aircraft on leaseback.

 
Certification is scheduled for late 2004, with a base price of $179,900.

FMI: www.diamondair.com