"Efficient, modern, and reliable, the Diamond DA42 is a top choice for short regional flights, combining twin-engine safety, low fuel consumption, and panoramic comfort for up to four passengers."

Diamond DA42

Diamond DA42 twin-engine aircraft parked on tarmac, ideal for short-range regional private flights
Interior of Diamond DA42 showing modern cockpit and 4-seat layout for efficient short-haul private flights

Introduction & Fun Facts

The Diamond DA42 Twin Star, introduced in the early 2000s, was the world’s first diesel-powered twin-engine aircraft and remains one of the most efficient and modern light twin aircraft on the market. Known for its sleek carbon composite design, low fuel consumption, and quiet performance, the DA42 is a favorite for short business hops, air taxi operations, and scenic leisure flights. With its glass cockpit, twin safety redundancy, and excellent visibility, it’s also widely used for training professional pilots.

Cabin & Comfort

Seats: 3–4 passengers
Cabin Dimensions: 1.27 m (4 ft 2 in) height × 1.27 m (4 ft 2 in) width × 3.35 m (11 ft) length
Luggage Capacity: Fits up to 2 soft medium suitcases and small personal bags
Layout: Side-by-side seating with rear bench seat
Lavatory: Not available
Flight Attendant: Not available

The DA42 offers panoramic cockpit-style visibility and a surprisingly spacious interior for a small aircraft, making it ideal for short regional flights or sightseeing missions.

Catering

Catering is limited due to the aircraft size. Bottled water, soft drinks, and light snacks such as nuts or granola bars can be provided on board. No hot catering available.

Performance & Specs

Range: up to 2,000 km (≈ 1,240 mi / 1,080 nm) — 4 to 5 hours of flight
Cruising Speed: 330 km/h (≈ 205 mph / 178 knots)
Engines: 2 × Austro AE300 turbocharged diesel engines
Take-off Distance: approx. 500 m (≈ 1,640 ft)
Maximum Ceiling: 5,486 m (18,000 ft)

Popular Routes & Prices in Europe & Beyond

The DA42 is best suited for short-distance or scenic routes where efficiency and visibility are key.

  • Geneva – Sion: from 1,200 EUR

  • Nice – Monaco (Heliport or nearby): from 1,000 EUR

  • Zurich – Lugano: from 1,350 EUR

Prices are indicative, subject to aircraft positioning, seasonality, and request preparation time.

Why Choose the Diamond DA42

  • Ultra-low fuel consumption and carbon footprint

  • Modern cockpit and advanced avionics

  • Twin-engine safety in a light aircraft format

  • Great value for short and scenic regional flights

Technical Data

Aircraft Type: Light twin piston aircraft
Manufacturer: Diamond Aircraft Industries (Austria)
Range: 2,000 km (1,240 mi / 1,080 nm)
Cruise Speed: 330 km/h (205 mph / 178 knots)
Seats: 3–4 passengers
Cabin Dimensions: 3.35 m × 1.27 m × 1.27 m (11 ft × 4 ft 2 in × 4 ft 2 in)
Luggage Capacity: Up to 2 medium soft suitcases + small bags
Lavatory: Not available