Training Academy Fleet Expands to 15 Aircraft

Austria-based Diamond Aircraft has announced they entered into a letter of intent with airBaltic Training which will acquire five Diamond aircraft: three all-electric eDA40 along with two DA42-VI.

The agreement was signed yesterday at the Baltic International Airshow in Liepja, Latvia. The move expands the airBaltic Pilot Academy fleet to a total of 15 aircraft and demonstrates their commitment to sustainable aviation. airBaltic Training is a subsidiary of the Latvian airline airBaltic.

The eDA40 will be the first electric airplane in its category to be certified by EASA/FAA and represents a major milestone toward zero-emission flight training. Its advanced design electric motor performs at 94% efficiency and together with the control system add to the aircraft's reliability and safety. Its innovative battery system and fast 20-30 minute recharge time reduce downtime and thereby add to training efficiency. Combined with its lower noise levels and zero emissions, the eDA40 enables eco-friendly pilot training.

The DA42-VI is Diamond’s latest upgrade to their twin-engine model. It features the Austro Engine 168 hp 2.0 liter diesel AE300 that combined burn an economical 10.4 gallons of Jet A per hour at 60%. At 75% power it cruises at 175 knots TAS at 16,000 feet and has a service ceiling of 17,500 feet.

The five aircraft will be delivered over the course of the next six years. Pauls Cltis, Chief Operations Officer of airBaltic said, “The upcoming arrival of these innovative aircraft is a significant milestone in our mission to provide top-tier, sustainable training for future pilots.”

FMI: www.diamondaircraft.com, www.airbaltictraining.com/airbaltic-pilot-academy/