Diamond Aircraft has delivered its 1000th North American built airplane, a DA40-180 Diamond Star, to Premier Aircraft Sales, of Florida. With 261 DA20 and DA40 aircraft delivered in 2005, Diamond was the number one producer of airplanes in the up-to-200 hp class. With deliveries of the recently certified DA42 TwinStar ramping up in Europe and coming to North America soon, Diamond is expecting a significant increase in its total sales for 2006.

"Contrary to the general market, we have seen a very strong increase in sales, even during the post 9-11 period," said Christian Dries, CEO of Diamond Aircraft.

"With the DA42 we are entering a new market segment that will augment our existing sales and increase our overall market share. We are pursuing a longterm strategy of steady growth with a variety of airplanes for diverse applications. Our innovations regarding fuel efficient airframes and application of modern turbo-diesel powerplants in certain markets will continue to sustain our growth as fuel prices continue to become more of a concern to customers and operators."

"Because of the excellent build quality, superior performance and safety, we are proud to represent Diamond Aircraft and especially honoured to be receiving the 1000th North American built Diamond airplane," said Art Spengler (shown above, left, with Diamond's irrepressible Jeff Owen), Vice President Premier Aircraft Sales.

FMI: www.diamondair.com, www.diamond-air.at, www.premieraircraftsales.com