Diamond DA-42 Twin Star

The twin-engine trainer built for efficiency and modern avionics.

Overview

Diamond Austria ICAO: DA42 2002–Present Active $470,000 (2006)

The Diamond DA-42 Twin Star entered service in the early 2000s as a composite light twin. Designed for training and personal transport, it emphasizes fuel efficiency and glass cockpit integration. The aircraft has gained popularity in flight schools worldwide.

Live Fleet Activity (DA42)

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Specifications

Units
Engine
2 × TAE Centurion 2.0 Turbo Diesel or Austro Engine E4
Engine type
other: Other
Power
2 × 168 hp · 125 kW
Avionics
Garmin G1000 Glass Panel Cockpit
Wing tips
Other
Seats
4
Crew
—
Cabin width
3 ft 11 in  ·  1.20 m
Cabin height
3 ft 11 in  ·  1.20 m
Cabin length
8 ft 6 in  ·  2.60 m
Exterior length
28 ft 1 in  ·  8.56 m
Tail height
8 ft 2 in  ·  2.49 m
Fuselage diameter
3 ft 11 in  ·  1.20 m
Wing span
44 ft 5 in  ·  13.55 m
Baggage volume
2 ft³  ·  0.1 m³
Gross weight
—
Empty weight
—
Max takeoff weight
4,400 lb  ·  2,000 kg
Max landing weight
3,750 lb  ·  1,700 kg
Max payload
800 lb  ·  350 kg
Fuel capacity
80 gal · 300 L · 200 kg (Jet A)
Max cruise speed
197 kt  ·  227 mph  ·  365 km/h
Maximum speed
—
Cruise speed
—
Approach speed
61 kt  ·  70 mph  ·  113 km/h
Range
1,215 nm  ·  1,400 mi  ·  2,250 km
Fuel burn
29.94 nm/gal  ·  14.65 km/L
Ceiling
18,000 ft  ·  5,500 m
Rate of climb
1,550 ft/min  ·  8 m/s
Takeoff distance
920 ft  ·  280 m
Landing distance
1,120 ft  ·  340 m
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Diamond DA-42 Twin Star ‘SP-NBA’

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Operational Context

Diamond DA-42 Twin Star — light twin-engine aircraft

The DA-42 first flew in 2002 and entered service in 2004. It features composite construction and a sleek low-wing layout. The aircraft was designed to provide modern avionics in a training platform.

Two diesel or piston engines producing approximately 170 horsepower each power the aircraft depending on configuration. Cruise speed approaches 180 knots (333 km/h). Maximum takeoff weight exceeds 4,000 pounds (1,814 kg).

The DA-42 is widely used in advanced pilot training and personal transport roles. Its fuel efficiency distinguishes it from older light twins. Production continues in updated versions.

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