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Diamond Aircraft's journey: From gliders to advanced general aviation planes

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Diamond Aircraft's journey: From gliders to advanced general aviation planes
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Simple Flying | Simple Flying

Diamond Aircraft Industries, founded by Austrian aviation engineer Wolf Hoffmann in 1981, has become a renowned name in the general aviation sector. Initially known as Hoffmann Flugzeugbau, the company introduced its first aircraft, the H36 Dimona, a two-seat all-composite glider that became Europe's best-selling motor-glider.

Following the release of the HK36 Dimona, Diamond Aircraft shifted focus to light general aviation aircraft with the development of the DV20 Katana, later marketed as the DA20 in North America. The Dries Family's involvement in the 1990s helped expand Diamond's presence in North America after securing its place in Europe.

In the late 1990s, rebranding to Diamond Aircraft aligned with its growing North American market. In subsequent years, new aircraft models were developed, including the twin-engine Diamond DA42 Twin Star. These aircraft serve various roles such as training and owner-operator use.

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The HK36 Dimona remains a notable model from Hoffmann's original design. Since its introduction in 1980 and continuous production thereafter, over 900 units have been produced. This lightweight glider is built entirely from fiberglass materials and features foldable wings for storage.

Another significant model is the Diamond DA20. First flown as a prototype in 1991 and released to market by 1993 under its initial name DV20 Katana before being rebranded for North America. Over 1,000 units have been built since then. The DA20 serves primarily as a two-seater trainer aircraft powered by a Continental IO-240 piston engine.

Developed from the DA20's success is the Diamond DA40 Star which accommodates up to four passengers while maintaining many of its predecessor’s features like tricycle landing gear and low-wing configuration. Introduced officially in early 2000s after starting development mid-1990s; more than 2,250 units have been sold.

Finally comes their first twin-engine craft -the Diamond DA42 Twin Star introduced back during early millennium era post maiden flight conducted December '02 . Certified uniquely within European skies marking quarter-century milestone on continent; close thousand these crafted today powered via dual Austro Engine E4 motors yielding collective horsepower upwards near three-fifty mark each unit sports composite material airframe retractable landing gear distinct T-tail feature among others

Organizations Included in this History
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