DA40-180FP (Fixed-Pitch) Model Ideal for Training and Leaseback; Saves Money, Too

Diamond has announced its new Diamond Star FP, at the annual University Aviation Association fall conference in Dayton (OH). In response to frequent inquiries from flight training institutions, Diamond has developed a fixed pitch version of its popular DA40-180 Diamond Star to reduce acquisition and operating costs, while continuing to meet the requirements of flight training operations.

"It was important to Diamond Aircraft and our customers to reduce cost, but not at the expense of quality of design, materials, or appearance" said John Gauch, Vice President Sales and Marketing. The cost savings are in the form of specification changes related mainly to the powerplant. Whereas the current DA40 Diamond Star features the fuel injected Lycoming IO360 180 hp engine, hydraulic prop governor and an MT or Hartzell constant speed propeller, the Diamond Star FP is powered by the carburated Lycoming O360A4M 180 hp engine, driving a fixed pitch metal Sensenich  propeller.

Easier to buy, easier to maintain.

"In addition to an over $10,000 reduction in purchase price, these changes also have a significant impact on overhaul costs, especially important to high utilization operators. The overhaul costs of the O360 are significantly lower than those of the fuel injected IO360 engine, and elimination of the governor and constant speed prop overhauls further reduces operating costs," Gauch noted.

Performance is still quite good -- this Diamond is no Zirconia!

The efficient aerodynamic design of the all composite Diamond Star, the company tells us, results in "minimal performance reduction" vs the constant speed DA40. The climb performance at sea level exceeds 900 fpm and the speed is 140+ knots.

Panel options continue through the lineup:

The DA40-180FP will be offered with all currently available avionics configurations, including the recently introduced all glass cockpits. "Many schools keep telling us that they see a near term need for an all-glass trainer, while purchase cost is always the major concern. The DA40-180FP, equipped with the optional Garmin G1000 all glass cockpit, represents the lowest-cost all-glass IFR-certified trainer available, and perfectly complements our DA20, DA40 and DA42. We continue to offer maximum choice and are dedicated to the future of flight training," said Mr. Gauch.

Although aimed primarily at commercial flight training operations and smaller flight schools, Diamond expects the "40FP" to attract significant interest from private individuals, especially those wanting to place their aircraft on leaseback. Availability of the Diamond Star FP is mid-2004, with an estimated base price of under $175,000.

FMI: www.diamondair.com