Emirates expands fleet at Flight Training Academy

The Emirates Flight Training Academy (EFTA) has ordered three twin-engine DA42-VIs and their corresponding flight simulators from Austria-based Diamond Aircraft Industries to strengthen its existing fleet.

The total transaction value is EUR 4 million (list price).

AUSTRO’s jet fuel powered DA42-VI aircraft will be the flagship aircraft for EFTA’s Multi Engine Piston (MEP) training.

Captain Abdulla Al Hammadi, Vice President, Emirates Flight Training Academy, said: “Our new fleet from Diamond Aircraft is part of a larger strategic intent of our cadet program. Gain more flying experience while upgrading your aircraft to a light jet.

“It strengthens our product and makes it more distinctive, rounded and robust. Our cadets will benefit greatly as they gain experience on three different types of aircraft, even before they receive their licence. Help us exceed and comply with the new GCAA guidelines. The DA42-VI is a reliable, environmentally friendly and practical MEP training platform. We believe we made the right choice.”

“We are delighted that our DA42-VI has been chosen by Emirates for flight training. This once again reinforces the aircraft’s position as an industry-leading multi-engine piston trainer aircraft,” said Frank Zhang, CEO of Diamond Aircraft Austria.

“With Emirates, we have added another premier flight academy to our roster of renowned training operators and look forward to providing them with the most advanced and environmentally friendly aircraft on the market today.”

The 4-seat DA42-VI is the latest version of Diamond’s technology-leading lightweight piston twin-engine aircraft. It was the first certified general aviation piston aircraft to incorporate a modern technological airframe, avionics and powerplant.

With its unique combination of performance and practicality, the jet-fuel-powered DA42-VI is designed to make the transition from single-engine to twin-engine easier. The aircraft offers fuel savings of up to 50% compared to conventional AVGAS powered twins, and its panoramic canopy provides excellent visibility during all flight maneuvers.

Since its introduction, more than 1,100 DA42 aircraft have been delivered, more than all other certified piston twin aircraft combined. The all composite DA42-VI is equipped with an efficient, quiet, clean and reliable 168hp jet fuel AUSTRO engine AE300, Garmin G1000 NXi with 3 axis automatic flight control system and optional electric air conditioning.

Aircraft deliveries are expected to begin soon, with all three aircraft to be received by EFTA in the first half of 2023. Since 2020, more than 100 trainees have successfully graduated from EFTA, creating a strong pilot pipeline for Emirates and the industry as a whole. – trade arab news agency