Now flying: Diamond DA42-NG light twin! I had a blast checking out in the Twin Diamond at Ahart Aviation in Livermore, and my checkout in the DA42 TwinStar at West Valley is complete as well. These modern light twins are really fun to fly.
There are differences between the original DA-42 TwinStar and the new Twin Diamond DA42-NG. The NG (“new generation”) has the new Mercedes engines and a number of subtle differences in the fuselage and flight characteristics. Most notably, the NG is heavier, has higher V speeds (e.g. rotate at 80 instead of 70), and the engine cowls are shaped differently to handle the new engines. My opinion is that it taxis and flies just a little easier than the original TwinStar. When doing single engine work, rudder pressure required to ‘split the ball’ is less, and engine out procedures are just a bit easier to handle overall.
You can fly with me in the DA42 TwinStar at West Valley Flying Club in Palo Alto. You can fly with me in the Twin Diamond DA42-NG at Ahart Aviation in Livermore. (Due to legal issues with the bankrupt engine manufacturer, because of the new engines we’re supposed to call it a “Twin Diamond” – not a Twin Star.) Contact me today and let’s go flying!
The Piper Seminole, a staple of multi-engine training, is an excellent entry level choice. Since it isn’t a modern ‘glass cockpit’ like the DA-42, it will generally rent for a lower hourly cost. Many nationwide flight schools use this aircraft exclusively. If you have time in a Piper Arrow, then it will be an easy transition to the PA44.
You can fly with me in the PA-44 Seminole at Ahart Aviation in Livermore. Contact me today and let’s go flying!