FAA Certification Expected Next Month

The fixed pitch version of the Diamond Star has received certification from the European Aircraft Safety Agency (EASA). FAA certification for the DA40-FP is expected mid-May.

Retaining the inherent quality and high level of standard equipment that the DA40-180 offers, the DA40-FP offers lower acquisition and operating costs, simplified operation and lower maintenance times. The principal differences are the replacement of the fuel injected Lycoming IO-360-M1A with the carbureted 0-360-A4M, the deletion of the hydraulic governor, replacement of the constant speed prop with a fixed pitch forged aluminum Sensenich propeller and simplification of the powerplant instrumentation.

Operational enhancements include heavy duty 4-point tiedowns, 3-point electric priming for reliable cold weather starting, high capacity air and oil cooling designed to provide excellent cooling at low speeds (climbs) and during prolonged ground operations, improved cabin ventilation and cabin heating, and a heavy duty flight training interior panel system.

Easily removed cowlings, firewall mounted oil filter and standard quick drain for convenient oil changes, firewall mounted battery and relays, simplified exhaust system with easily removed heat shroud, sealed all composite air cooling plenum to eliminate baffle and seal maintenance and access panels that allow inspections without removal of crew seats reduce maintenance and improve maintainability.

Like the Diamond Star, the DA40-FP is available with choice of conventional Bendix King or Garmin avionics, or the Garmin G1000 glass cockpit. List base pricing starts at $187,800.

FMI: www.diamondair.com