The 2007 Diamond DA42: A Complete Refurb by Gulf States Aircraft
The 2007 Diamond DA42 stands as a testament to modern aviation engineering, blending advanced composite materials with cutting-edge avionics to deliver unparalleled performance and safety. This twin-engine aircraft has earned acclaim for its efficiency, versatility, and innovative design, making it a preferred choice among pilots and aviation enthusiasts.
History of the Diamond DA42
Introduced by Diamond Aircraft Industries in the early 2000s, the DA42 was the company’s first foray into twin-engine aircraft. Its maiden flight took place on December 9, 2002, and it received European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) certification in April 2004. Notably, in 2004, the DA42 became the first diesel-powered fixed-wing aircraft to complete a non-stop transatlantic flight, showcasing its remarkable fuel efficiency and reliability.
Diamond Aircraft Industries: A Legacy of Innovation
Founded in Austria, Diamond Aircraft Industries has consistently pushed the boundaries of general aviation. The company’s commitment to integrating advanced materials, such as carbon fiber reinforced polymers, has resulted in aircraft that are both lightweight and robust. The DA42 exemplifies this philosophy, featuring an all-carbon composite airframe that ensures durability and performance.
Versatility and Uses of the DA42
The DA42’s design caters to a wide range of applications:
- Flight Training: Flight schools value the DA42 for its fuel efficiency and advanced avionics, providing students with experience in operating complex aircraft systems.
- Private Ownership: Pilots appreciate its combination of performance and comfort, making it ideal for personal travel.
- Aerial Surveillance and Mapping: The aircraft’s endurance and stability make it suitable for missions requiring extended flight times and precise maneuvering.
The 2007 Diamond DA42 N384GS: A Comprehensive Refurbishment by Gulf States Aircraft
The 2007 Diamond DA42, tail number N384GS, has undergone an extensive refurbishment by Gulf States Aircraft, a premier aircraft refurbishment company known for its meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. This overhaul encompasses critical components and systems, ensuring enhanced performance, reliability, and aesthetics.
Airframe
Gulf States Aircraft meticulously restored the airframe of N384GS, ensuring its structural integrity and longevity. With a total time of 8,750 hours, the aircraft will be delivered with a fresh annual inspection and a five-year structural inspection, affirming its airworthiness. The DA42’s composite construction not only provides strength but also contributes to its aerodynamic efficiency, resulting in superior flight characteristics.
Engines
Powering N384GS are two overhauled, zero-timed Continental TAE 125-02-114 (CD155) engines, each delivering robust performance. Installed on June 5, 2024, these engines come with zero hours since overhaul, offering a full service life ahead. The CD155 engines are renowned for their fuel efficiency and reliability, aligning with the DA42’s design philosophy of combining performance with economy.
Propellers
Complementing the new engines are freshly overhauled MT Propeller MTV-6-A-C-F/CF187-129 scimitar props, featuring new blades. The right propeller was overhauled on February 22, 2023, and the left on March 2, 2023, both by Hope Aero Propeller & Components, Inc. These propellers enhance thrust and contribute to the aircraft’s smooth and efficient operation.
Avionics
The avionics suite has been upgraded to meet contemporary standards, featuring dual newly overhauled Garmin G1000 units. This modern glass cockpit setup provides pilots with intuitive access to critical flight information. Additionally, a new Garmin GTX 345 ADS-B In/Out transponder has been installed, ensuring compliance with modern air traffic requirements and enhancing situational awareness.
Exterior
The aircraft boasts a pristine exterior, finished with new white paint and black registration markings, expertly applied by Gulf States Aircraft. This fresh livery not only enhances aesthetics but also offers potential buyers the flexibility to customize with a decal package of their choice, allowing for personalization to match individual preferences.
Interior
Inside, N384GS features a completely new interior, showcasing brown and tan leather seats with diamond-stitched insets. The cabin is further enhanced with new carpeting and trim, creating a luxurious and comfortable environment for both pilots and passengers. Gulf States Aircraft’s attention to detail reflects a commitment to quality and passenger comfort.
Additional Features
The aircraft is equipped with heated propellers and a TKS anti-ice system, enabling operations in known icing conditions and enhancing safety during adverse weather. The inclusion of a bubble canopy provides extra headroom, improving comfort for taller occupants and contributing to an overall spacious cabin feel.
Upcoming Auction Details
The fully refurbished 2007 Diamond DA42 N384GS is scheduled for auction with the following details:
- Auction Dates: March 19, 2025 – March 26, 2025
- Starting Bid: $450,000
- Buyer Premium: 4%
- Deposit Required: $5,000
This auction presents a unique opportunity to acquire a meticulously refurbished DA42, offering exceptional value compared to a factory-new model. With its comprehensive upgrades and pristine condition, N384GS stands out as a premier choice for discerning buyers seeking performance, reliability, and modern avionics in a twin-engine aircraft.
Conclusion
The 2007 Diamond DA42 N384GS exemplifies the synergy of advanced engineering and expert refurbishment. Its comprehensive overhaul by Gulf States Aircraft ensures that it meets the highest standards of performance and safety. Whether for personal use, flight training, or specialized missions, this aircraft offers a balanced blend of value and capability, making it a standout option in the general aviation market.