Finally... Some GOOD News!

Over the past several weeks, we've run too many stories about layoffs throughout the general aviation biz, in the face of dwindling order numbers... so news of a big fleet order is good news, indeed.

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University recently placed an order for 10 Diamond DA42 L360 twin-engine aircraft. Diamond Aircraft will begin deliveries to Embry-Riddle in Spring 2009, with the full fleet of Lycoming-powered DA42s will be in service at Embry-Riddle's Daytona Beach campus before the 2009-2010 academic year begins.
 
The DA42 L360 is the Lycoming powered version of the DA42 twin, that is in worldwide service with several flight training schools and institutions... including Embry-Riddle, which took delivery of 10 Thielert diesel-powered DA42s in 2007.

The L360 model is equipped with two counter-rotating Lycoming IO-360 (180hp) engines, G1000 flight deck, and available flight into known ice certification (FIKI).

"Embry-Riddle selected the DA42 L360 because it represents the combination of a thoroughly modern airframe and the Garmin G1000 glass cockpit, with a tried and true power plant that is common across our fleet. It also provides us the option to upgrade to more advanced power plants in the future. We believe this aircraft represents the leading edge of technology, safety, and performance for our students and instructors," said Frank Ayers, Chairman of the Flight Department, in Daytona Beach.

"It is a pleasure to be associated with the world-class flight training program at Embry-Riddle," said Peter Maurer, President of Diamond Aircraft Industries. "The DA42 is truly the state-of-the-art aircraft for multi-engine flight training.  While the students and instructors will appreciate its performance, safety, modern design and Garmin G1000 glass flight deck, the university will benefit from its fuel efficiency, corrosion-proof all composite airframe and Diamond's factory direct fleet support."

FMI: www.diamondaircraft.com, www.embryriddle.edu