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When will a diesel be available for my aircraft? |
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News, facts, and comments on the coming revolution for piston-engine aircraft.News of July 29, 2006Diamond snags fleet order for diesel Twin Star and D-JetDuring the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, Diamond Aircraft joined with Point2Point Airways to announce the airframer’s first sales of its diesel-powered DA42 Twin Star and forthcoming D-Jet to a certificated U.S. air carrier. Point2Point Airways said it would use the new planes—a mix of both types totaling up to 100 aircraft—as part of its plans to expand its non-scheduled commercial air service. Delivery of the first 10 DA42 Twin Stars begins in August, with additional aircraft being placed into service through the end of 2008. The carrier said the decision to acquire the aircraft is part of its ongoing expansion plans. Point2Point started operations under an FAA Part 135 operating certificate about a year ago, according to company spokesperson Leonard Lee, and plans to use the new aircraft to develop its business. To this point, the Bismarck, North Dakota-based carrier has been using Cirrus SR22s and Cessna Caravans—as well as supplemental lift from affiliated Part 135 operators—to meet customers’ demand. The new Diamond fleet will allow it to expand its operations throughout the Midwest, its current target market. Diamond and Point2Point also announced a strategic partnership as part of their agreement. The two will collaborate on custom aircraft features and training protocols designed to enhance aircraft comfort and operational effectiveness. Two TAE Centurion 1.7 turbo-diesel engines power the Diamond DA42 Twin Star, providing a cruise speed of around 174 knots and a range of 1,300 statute miles. "We’re very excited about our new strategic relationship with Diamond Aircraft," said John Boehle, Point2Point’s founder and CEO. "This alliance will expand our ability to provide the average business traveler with the kind of on-demand air service that only billionaires and top executives have had access to in the past." Peter Maurer, president of Diamond Aircraft Industries Inc., added, "This new category of personal air transportation pioneered by Point2Point has the potential to transform the way people travel and conduct business. We look forward to working closely with Point2Point and equipping them with state-of-the-art aircraft that make the tremendous benefits of on-demand personal air transportation affordable to the average business traveler." posted at 12:35 PM |
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