Austrian Diamond Aircraft Industries was founded in 1981, specializing in light aircraft and flight-related simulators. The first product is the motor glider HK36 "Dimona". Since then, the group has grown to over 2,000 employees and has only expanded its aircraft catalog.
One of their latest products is the Diamond DA62, a lightweight "twin" that can carry up to seven passengers, depending on the interior seating configuration.
The first flight in prototype form took place on April 3, 2012, and production has started in 2015, with about 25 produced since launch.
The launch of the new aircraft was originally scheduled for mid-July 2013, but it was only certified for European airspace in April 2015, so there were some delays. U.S. approval was only granted in February 2016. [ /p]
When complete, the DA62 will offer a top speed of 228 mph while being able to cruise in the 200 mph range and travel 1,500 miles. Service can be capped at 20,000 feet, with a reported rate of climb of 1,200 feet per minute. 2 x Austro AE330 diesel engines each producing 180 hp and driving a three-blade propeller unit.
The structure consists of lightweight but strong composite material (carbon fuselage structure).
Avionics is a Garmin G1000NXi system with standard 3-axis automatic flight control system (AFCS) GFC700, electronic stability system and yaw dampers. The dashboard is clean and uncluttered, controlled by two full-color 10-inch glass displays for easy operation.
Power controls are of the single-lever FADEC variety. The rudder pedals are electrically adjustable and the flap system is electrically powered. The GDC72 acts as the aircraft's digital air data computer.
Depending on buyer preference, there are several options in the cockpit, including a Garmin GDL69A Satlink unit, a Garmin GWX70 weather radar system, and an Avidyne TAS605 traffic advisory system.
Dimensions include an overall length of 30.1 feet, a wingspan of 48.2 feet, and a height of 7.5 feet.
European models offer two rows of seats with a reduced maximum take-off weight (MTOW) for better operation in congested civilian airports. The American model has three rows of seats. Entry and exit are through hinged doors with hinged doors, allowing full access to the interior. Oversized windows provide the pilot and passengers with maximum visibility.
Luggage can be stored in two compartments in the shared nose, one along the port side and the other along the starboard side.
The DA62 is now (2018) actively marketed by Diamond for its reliable twin engine fit, fuel economy and luxury offerings. It is also known for its excellent handling, stability and overall performance, allowing single-engine pilots to transition to the Diamond Twin with relative ease and without frustration.
- Commercial Market
- VIP traffic
30.18 ft (9.2 m)
48.23 ft (14.7 m)
7.48 ft (2.28 m)
1,600 kg
2,300 kg
230 mph (370 km/h; 200 knots)
20,013 ft (6,100 m; 3.79 mi)
1,491 miles (2,400 km; 1,296 nautical miles)
366 m/min
No.
DA62 - Name of the base series.