G500 Puts Synthetic Vision Technology In A Trainer

Diamond Aircraft and Garmin International announced today a new factory-equipped glass cockpit solution for the DA20-C1, Diamond's popular two-seat trainer.

“We're very excited to be able to offer an entry level all glass cockpit in a certified airplane. For years we have been wanting to go glass in the DA20, but the price point of certified systems has not made this possible – until today,” said Peter Maurer, President of Diamond Aircraft. “The DA20 is a best seller, with over a thousand units delivered and flown by leading flight training organizations worldwide, including the US Air Force. With the Garmin G500 equipped DA20 joining the G1000 equipped DA40 and DA42, Diamond offers cockpit commonality across our complete line of piston airplanes.

The attributes that make the DA20 a great trainer, combined with its crisp handling, superior performance, economy and now the convenience of a Garmin glass cockpit with Synthetic Vision Technology, make it a superb sport plane, for both novice pilots and experienced pros.”

The Garmin G500 equipped DA20 offers:

• Garmin 10" wide PFD/MFD glass cockpit
• Redesigned panel for more space and comfort
• 125 hp TCM IO-240 with Sensenich fixed pitch propeller
• Outstanding performance
• 5 gph in typical flight training operations
• 450 lb full fuel useful load
• Utility category certification to max gross weight
• Spin Certified for instructor training – and peace of mind
• Proven high resale value
• Several million hours of demonstrated reliability on the toughest flight lines around the world.

The 2010 model year DA20 with Garmin G500 will be available for delivery starting October 2009. Base pricing, including the G500 has been set at 184,980 USD. Diamond is celebrating the introduction of the lowest cost certified glass cockpit airplane with a time-limited spectacular introductory offer. Every purchaser of a new DA20 equipped with G500, will receive a no-charge avionics upgrade and free SVT (Synthetic Vision Technology) valued at $9,685!

 Diamond will continue to offer both the conventional instrument and Aspen Avionics PFD equipped versions of the DA20. The DA20 with Garmin G500 will be on display, alongside Diamond's complete line-up, at EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh.

FMI: www.diamondaircraft.com