Diamond Aircraft Industries
Diamond D-Jet
The Diamond D‑Jet is a very light jet (VLJ) developed by Diamond Aircraft Industries, a Swiss‑Austrian manufacturer known for its composite piston aircraft. Work on the D‑Jet began in 2006, with the first prototype rolling out in early 2013 and its maiden flight on June 7, 2015. The program was halted in 2020 due to market shifts, but the aircraft remains a notable example of Diamond’s attempt to bring advanced, fuel‑efficient technology to the VLJ segment.
Key features include a carbon‑fiber‑reinforced airframe that reduces weight and increases corrosion resistance, a twin‑engine configuration using Williams International FJ33‑5A turbofans, and a pressurised cabin that seats four passengers plus a pilot. The D‑Jet’s cruise speed reaches 370 kt, with a range of about 1,200 nm and a service ceiling of 45,000 ft, while consuming roughly 70 kg of fuel per hour—significantly less than comparable jets. Avionics are based on the Garmin G3000 glass suite, offering integrated navigation, weather, and synthetic‑vision displays.
Its significance lies in demonstrating how composite construction and modern avionics can lower operating costs and environmental impact for business aviation, influencing later designs from both Diamond and competing manufacturers.
Key features include a carbon‑fiber‑reinforced airframe that reduces weight and increases corrosion resistance, a twin‑engine configuration using Williams International FJ33‑5A turbofans, and a pressurised cabin that seats four passengers plus a pilot. The D‑Jet’s cruise speed reaches 370 kt, with a range of about 1,200 nm and a service ceiling of 45,000 ft, while consuming roughly 70 kg of fuel per hour—significantly less than comparable jets. Avionics are based on the Garmin G3000 glass suite, offering integrated navigation, weather, and synthetic‑vision displays.
Its significance lies in demonstrating how composite construction and modern avionics can lower operating costs and environmental impact for business aviation, influencing later designs from both Diamond and competing manufacturers.
