diamond-da42-twin-star

service

Diamond DA42 Twin Star Piston Specifications and Charter Rates

The Diamond DA42 Twin Star represents a leap forward in the world of light twin-engine aircraft, offering four seats, advanced avionics, and impressive fuel efficiency for private pilots and business travelers alike. Originally introduced in the early 2000s, the DA42 quickly earned a reputation for its sleek composite airframe, responsive handling, and robust safety features.


Perfect for those who require economical, efficient personal or business air travel, the DA42 delivers a premium flying experience with modern amenities and a focus on passenger comfort. This profile highlights its key features, performance metrics, cabin layout, typical charter pricing, and addresses the most common questions from discerning flyers considering this aircraft for their next journey.

jettly
service

Diamond DA42 Twin Star Overview

The DA42 Twin Star is in the piston-twin class, making it a favorite among pilots seeking the blend of twin-engine reliability with modern technology. The aircraft seats up to four passengers and is renowned for its spacious and ergonomic cockpit, which features state-of-the-art Garmin avionics and intuitive controls. Its composite construction ensures both strength and lightness, supporting a maximum cruise altitude well beyond typical single-engine alternatives.


Efficiency is at the heart of the DA42's appeal. Its Austro AE300 diesel engines provide exceptional fuel economy, burning as little as five gallons per hour per side, while delivering quiet, smooth power and reduced emissions. For operators, the DA42's low direct operating costs and minimal maintenance requirements make it a compelling choice for both personal use and flight training organizations worldwide.


Charter clients value the DA42 for its reliability, safety record, and ability to access smaller airports and private airfields that are often unavailable to jets or turboprops. The result is a nimble, versatile flying experience tailored to shorter regional trips, with the comfort and peace of mind that only a modern twin can provide.

jettly

Diamond DA42 Twin Star Specifications

The figures below summarize the performance and dimensions that matter most when you are matching an aircraft to a trip. They reflect typical configurations; exact numbers vary with weight, weather, and how a given aircraft is equipped.

Aircraft class:

Piston

Passenger capacity:

Up to 3 (typical), 4 maximum

Crew:

1 or 2 pilots

Range:

Approximately 1051 nautical miles (around 1209 statute miles)

High-speed cruise:

180 knots (about 207 mph)

Long-range cruise:

Approximately 155 knots

Service ceiling:

18000 fee

Engines:

Two Austro AE300 diesel engines

Thrust:

Roughly 170 lbf per engine

Takeoff distance:

About 1600 feet

Landing distance:

About 1300 feet

Average fuel burn:

Around 10 gallons per hour

Baggage capacity:

Approximately 57 cubic feet

First delivered:

2004

diamond-da42-twin-star

The figures below summarize the performance and dimensions that matter most when you are matching an aircraft to a trip. They reflect typical configurations; exact numbers vary with weight, weather, and how a given aircraft is equipped.

diamond-da42-twin-star

Diamond DA42 Twin Star Range and Performance

With a maximum range of approximately 1,051 nautical miles, the DA42 Twin Star is ideally suited for regional journeys and cross-country hops without refueling. It can connect pairs such as Los Angeles to Denver, Toronto to New York, or Paris to Rome with ease and reserves to spare. | The aircraft’s 180-knot high-speed cruise allows for efficient flight times, while its 18,000-foot service ceiling lets pilots rise above most weather and turbulence for a smooth ride. The DA42’s efficient engines and low fuel consumption give it access to a wide variety of fields, including smaller airstrips that are out of reach for larger aircraft. | For most travelers, this means flexible, direct routing and the ability to reach unique destinations quickly—offering time savings and convenience that commercial options cannot match.

diamond-da42-twin-star

Diamond DA42 Twin Star Cabin Experience and Interior

The DA42’s cabin is designed for comfort and visibility, with ample headroom and large panoramic windows that fill the interior with natural light. Seating is arranged for up to four, offering leather upholstery, adjustable seats, and quiet ride quality thanks to its composite construction and advanced engine design. | Passengers benefit from a climate-controlled environment, folding tables, and in-flight connectivity options on select aircraft. The cockpit is equipped with the latest Garmin G1000 NXi avionics suite, providing pilots and passengers alike with advanced situational awareness and a modern, intuitive interface. | Baggage space totals around 57 cubic feet—more than enough for several suitcases, golf clubs, or weekend gear. For business or pleasure, the DA42 transforms short-haul travel into an enjoyable, productive experience.

Diamond DA42 Twin Star Charter Cost and Hourly Rates

laptop
A black and white image of an airplane.

Chartering a Diamond DA42 Twin Star typically runs in the range of $1200 to $1800 per flight hour, though the figure you are quoted depends on several factors. Rates move with the route, the season, repositioning (or ferry) time, airport fees, crew costs, and how a specific aircraft is equipped. Peak travel periods and one-way trips that leave an aircraft far from its base tend to sit at the higher end, while round trips and flights that align with an operator's existing schedule can come in lower.

A black and white image of an airplane.

It also helps to understand how charter pricing is structured. Most quotes are built around occupied flight hours plus those repositioning costs, landing and handling fees, taxes, and crew expenses. Because Jettly is a charter marketplace rather than an aircraft operator, you can compare live quotes from multiple FAA Part 135 and book the option that fits your route and budget.

A black and white image of an airplane.

Empty-leg flights, the discounted repositioning trips that operators are keen to fill, can also bring the cost of a Diamond DA42 Twin Star down significantly when the timing works in your favor. For an exact, current price on your specific trip, request a quote, and you will see real availability rather than an estimate.

Who Should Charter the Diamond DA42 Twin Star?

The Diamond DA42 Twin Star fits a wide set of missions, which is part of why it stays busy. It is a strong match for:

icon

Small executive teams traveling together to a meeting, site visit, or conference

icon

Regional and many transcontinental business trips that need to be completed in a single day

icon

Families or groups of up to eight heading to a vacation or event

icon

Travelers carrying bulkier baggage, such as golf clubs or ski gear

icon

Anyone who values flexible airport access and a stand-up cabin over the lowest possible price

While not intended for transcontinental or transoceanic routes, the DA42 excels for quick regional trips, pilot training, or short business missions where cost efficiency and flexibility are paramount. For groups of up to four seeking a nimble, modern aircraft with proven safety and comfort, the Twin Star is an outstanding value.

service

How the Diamond DA42 Twin Star Compares to Other Piston

The Diamond DA42 Twin Star debuted in 2004 as the world’s first diesel-powered twin-engine aircraft, setting new benchmarks in efficiency and safety for its class. Developed by Diamond Aircraft Industries in Austria, the DA42’s all-composite construction and aerodynamically refined design put it at the forefront of innovation from the outset.


Its early adoption of advanced avionics and the reliable Austro AE300 diesel engine made it a popular choice among private owners, charter operators, and training academies. Over the years, the DA42 has undergone continuous improvements, including upgraded avionics, enhanced comfort features, and further reductions in fuel burn and emissions.


Today, the DA42 Twin Star remains a favorite for those seeking a modern, economical twin for private and professional flying, with a global support network and a proven track record of reliability and safety.

jettly

Diamond DA42 Twin Star History and Background

The Diamond DA42 Twin Star debuted in 2004 as the world’s first diesel-powered twin-engine aircraft, setting new benchmarks in efficiency and safety for its class. Developed by Diamond Aircraft Industries in Austria, the DA42’s all-composite construction and aerodynamically refined design put it at the forefront of innovation from the outset.


Its early adoption of advanced avionics and the reliable Austro AE300 diesel engine made it a popular choice among private owners, charter operators, and training academies. Over the years, the DA42 has undergone continuous improvements, including upgraded avionics, enhanced comfort features, and further reductions in fuel burn and emissions.


Today, the DA42 Twin Star remains a favorite for those seeking a modern, economical twin for private and professional flying, with a global support network and a proven track record of reliability and safety.

plan

Frequently Asked Questions

How Many Passengers Can the Diamond DA42 Twin Star Carry?

The DA42 typically seats up to three passengers plus one or two pilots, depending on configuration. The cabin layout is designed to maximize comfort and space for both business and leisure travelers.

What Is the Range of the Diamond DA42 Twin Star?

The Diamond DA42 Twin Star has a range of approximately 1051 nautical miles, or roughly 1209 statute miles. That is enough to fly most regional routes and many transcontinental trips nonstop, with the longest coast-to-coast legs occasionally needing a brief fuel stop depending on winds and load.

How Fast Does the Diamond DA42 Twin Star Fly?

Its high-speed cruise is 180 knots (about 207 mph), with a long-range cruise near 155 knots. The aircraft's 18000-foot service ceiling lets it fly above most weather and traffic for a smoother, more direct trip.

How Much Does It Cost to Charter a Diamond DA42 Twin Star?

Charter rates generally fall between roughly $1200 and $1800 per flight hour, depending on the route, season, repositioning, and fees. Because Jettly is a marketplace, you can compare live quotes from multiple Part 135 operators and book the best option for your trip; empty-leg flights can lower the cost further.

Does the Hawker Diamond DA42 Twin Star Have a Stand-up Cabin?

Yes, the DA42 offers a spacious, comfortable cabin with large windows, climate control, and plush seating. The aircraft also provides ample baggage capacity—about 57 cubic feet—for luggage and equipment.

Is the Diamond DA42 Twin Star Good for Transcontinental Flights?

For most regional trips, absolutely. The DA42 can connect city pairs such as Los Angeles to Denver or Toronto to New York without refueling, making it highly convenient for short to mid-range flights.

Jettly gives you access to a global marketplace of more than 23,000 aircraft, including Diamond DA42 Twin Star jets operated by vetted FAA Part 135 Part 135 carriers. Compare live quotes, check real availability, and book with full concierge support, whether you are planning a single regional hop or a recurring travel schedule.

Enter your route and dates to get instant pricing on the Diamond DA42 Twin Star, or speak with our team about empty-leg deals and membership options that can bring your cost per trip down even further.

MEMBERSHIPS AND ASSOCIATIONS

partner logo
partner logo
partner logo
partner logo
partner logo
partner logo