12 February 2019
For years, operators of aircraft powered by turbine engines have taken advantage of packages which, for a set price based on hours flown, all maintenance costs are met. Now Diamond Aircraft has just announced such a deal for its piston-engine fleet.
It’s called the Diamond Airframe and Engine Hourly Cost Maintenance Programme, and it’s run with specialist company Piston Power. Piston Power already runs similar aftermarket schemes for several aircraft types.
Diamond’s new programme covers the airframe and engines on all new and in-service DA20, DA40 XLT, DA40NG, DA42-VI and DA62 aircraft. It’s arranged through Diamond’s worldwide network of Authorised Sales Representatives and Authorised Service Centres.
The operator – possibly a flying school or club – pays an hourly rate based on utilisation which covers parts and labour for unscheduled and scheduled maintenance. The programme not only provides protection from unforeseen and unscheduled maintenance expenses but also allows predictability of having a fixed budget for the operation of the aircraft or fleet.
“There has been a real need for this type of programme among piston aircraft owners for years,” said Scott McFadzean, CEO Diamond Aircraft Industries Inc.
“We are thrilled to be the first piston aircraft and engine manufacturers to offer a programme that jet owners have enjoyed for years. Now with PistonPower our owners and operators can benefit from cost predictability and substantial peace of mind.”
PistonPower CEO, Ron Zilberbrand said, “This programme will distinguish Diamond Aircraft and Austro Engine from other OEMs and increase sales by adding additional options and value to each covered aircraft. We look forward to enrolling the majority of all new and in-service aircraft sold, as well as in-service aircraft currently flying.”
Zilberbrand also founded Jet Support Services, Inc. (JSSI), an independent provider of service programmes for turbine airframes and engines.
