DA 42

The DA 42 Twin Star is a light twin-piston engine monoplane utility aircraft, representing the first twin-engine design from its manufacturer. Its inaugural flight occurred in 2002, and it received Type Certification in 2004. This aircraft is notable for being the first new European twin-engine aircraft in its class developed in over 25 years. The DA42 gained international recognition in 2004 when it became the first diesel-powered fixed-wing aircraft to complete a non-stop North Atlantic crossing. Production of the DA 42 continues, with over 600 units built as of 2010.

Diamond Aircraft Industries began its history in 1981 in Friesach, Carinthia, Austria, under the name Hoffmann Flugzeugbau, founded by Wolf Hoffmann. The company evolved through several name changes, including Hoffman Aircraft Limited and Dimona Aircraft, before establishing Diamond Aircraft in 1996. The Dries family took over the company in 1991, driving its growth and innovation in the light aircraft segment. The manufacturer is headquartered in Wiener Neustadt, Austria, and is recognized for its commitment to developing efficient, modern general aviation aircraft. The company expanded its capabilities in 2007 with the establishment of Austro Engine.