DIAMOND AIRCRAFT DA-20 C1 “KATANA”€

1995’€“present

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The Diamond Katana (DA-20) is an all-composite, two-seat training aircraft powered by a 125-hp Continental engine, featuring a top speed of 199 mph and a cruise speed of 135 knots.
  • Originally known as the DV-20, it was designed and produced in Europe by HOAC (later Diamond Aircraft), which has since expanded to become the third largest general aviation manufacturer of single-engine aircraft in Canada.
  • While primarily focused on the training market, the Katana series has evolved to include models like the C1 Eclipse, which offers enhanced comfort and advanced avionics for pilots beyond the student category.
See a mistake? Contact us.
STANDARD DATA: (DA-20) Seats 2. Gross wt. 1,764 lbs. Empty wt. 1,166 lbs. Usable fuel 24 gallons. Engine 125-hp Continental IO240B3B.
PERFORMANCE: Top mph 199. Cruise 135 kts. Stall mph 53. Initial climb rate 1,000 fpm. Takeoff distance (50′) 1,106′. Landing distance (50′) 1,280′.

Originally introduced to the United States as the Diamond DV-20, the Katana is an all-composite, twoplace, side-by-side training aircraft that was designed and produced in Europe by the Hoffman Öesterreische Aircraft Company (HOAC), later to be renamed Diamond Aircraft. The company’s original entry into aircraft production was with the HK-36R motorglider, so it’s no accident the Katana came out of the same factory with a 36′ wingspan. The Austrian-based company opened engineering and production facilities in London, Ontario, and is now the third largest general aviation manufacturer of single engine aircraft in Canada. The Katana and its several iterations (including the Katana 100, which utilizes a Bombardier Rotax engine) remain focused on the training market. The exception is the C1 Eclipse (beginning in 1999), which features extra creature comforts and advanced avionics to reach beyond the student pilot category.

Plane & Pilot

Plane + Pilot is general aviation’s only adventure-based magazine. From where to go, to how to get there, and everything in between, your next great adventure awaits.
Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get the latest Plane & Pilot Magazine stories delivered directly to your inbox

SUBSCRIBE