Diamond DA42 Twin Star

Typical use: Multi-Engine Rating (MEP), Instrument Rating (ME-IR)

Specifications

• Seats: 4
• Cruise: 160 kt
• Stall speed, landing configuration: 62 kt
• Max demonstrated crosswind: 25 kt
• Take-off to 50 ft: 733 m
• Engine: 2x Austro AE300 (Diesel)
• Avionics: Glass Cockpit (Garmin G1000)
• Typical hourly rate: £620–£700/hr wet
• Resale value (2025): £380,000–£550,000

Instructor insight

Makes the 'One Engine Inoperative' drill almost too easy compared to older twins. The plane handles the feathering/mixture automatically.

Student experience

The anti-ice fluid (TKS) system is heavy and messy. The cockpit is identical to the DA40, so it doesn't 'feel' like a step up to a bigger plane.