The fixed pitch version of Diamond's popular DA40-180 Diamond Star has received FAA certification.

The DA40-FP offers lower acquisition and operating costs, simplified operation and reduced maintenance times, making it an ideal flight training or leaseback aircraft.

The DA40-FP is equipped with a carbureted 180 hp Lycoming 0-360-A4M, a fixed pitch aluminum Sensenich propeller and many detail changes for improved maintenance access. It is available with choices of conventional Honeywell/Bendix King or Garmin avionics, as well as the Garmin G1000 all glass flight deck.

"In addition to recreational pilots, flight schools and leaseback customers, we expect the DA40-FP to be especially popular with our factory direct fleet customers," said Paul Woessner, Diamond's Director of Fleet Sales. "The DA40-180 has proven itself as a rugged and capable aircraft on the flight line. The FP combines its strengths with the added benefit of reduced powerplant complexity and cost. Paired with the DA42 Twin Star, the DA40-FP offers a complete fleet solution to all training needs, from ab-initio through commercial multi IFR."

As the launch customer, Airline Training Professionals (ATP), will take delivery of the first of ten Garmin G1000 equipped DA40-FP's in August, 2005.  

List base pricing starts at US$187,800.

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