DA40
Aircraft Review
Diamond DA-40 Diamond Star by Shade Tree Micro Aviation
The Diamond DA40 Diamond Star is a European built single engine used as a flight trainer and as a personal airplane.
Its
modern design and composite material frame made the DA40 a very
popular plane compared with its two main competitors: the Cessna 172 and the
Cirrus SR20.
STMA's
version of the DA40 is very detailed and was developped with the goal
of a maximum accuracy on the flight model. It was originally
commissioned by PFC for their FAA approved flight simulator. The
aircraft is for X-Plane 8.60+ and 9.00+
First Impression: A modern look
Built in composite materials, the DA40 offers a pleasing modern look for a training aircraft.
A pilot will instantly appreciate the exceptional visibilty offered by the DA40 plexiglass canopy.
The low wings are located behind the pilot.
The winds are mounted with small wingtips.
2D panel and 3D cockpit
Both 2D and 3D are easy to read and well designed.
The 2D Panel is very easy to read, making the D40 a prime choice for those who want to learn the basics of VFR flights
The 3D Cockpit is equaly clear and be used for everyday operations.
It features an animated pilot, animated controls and modeled interior.
Tip: To fly in 3D mode, make sure to configure your joystick properly
Flight Model
When STMA designed this aircraft, the goal was to have the most accurate flight model possible. This DA40 is even used by PFC on their flight simulators. Nevertheless, keep in mind that it was designed for X-Plane 8.60 where the flight model is certified. It hasn't been certified for version 9 yet, but X-Plane 9 was used for this review and I didn't see any major difference.
Take-off
Thanks to its large wings, the Diamond Star DA40 can take off on a short distance. Rotation will happen at 60 knots and, if your are not too heavy, you can use less than 500 feet of runway.
The torque effect isn't too heavy and shouldn't affect you.
In flight
The DA40 has a reputation of being a very forgiving plane at low speeds. It is mostly due to its large wings and explains its success among flight schools.
The plane is easy to fly and doesn't bring any bad surprises. You only need to pay extra attention is the wind is up, the plane will bounce around a bit.
The rudder of the DA40 seem to be extra sensitive in X-Plane. You may want to reduce the joystick sensitivity to take care of this issue.
Landings
In order to make a great landing with the DA40, you need to make sure you have the right approach speed.
The approach speed is 60-70 knots, depending on your weight.
If you go too fast, the plane will float above the runway and will be hard to land.
Specifications
Capacity: 4 people (1 pilot + 3 passengers)
Useful load: 890 lb
Max takeoff weight: 2,645 lb
Engine: 1× Lycoming IO-360-M1A , 180 hp
Performance
Cruise speed: 150 knots
Stall speed: 60 knots no flaps; 50 knots flaps down
Range: 700 nm (828 mi, 1341 km)
Conclusion
The Diamond Star DA40 by STMA is a great little plane for anyone who wants to either learn how to fly a plane or own an everyday plane to enjoy X-Plane VFR scenery.Just like in real life, it is a great alternative to the Cessna 172.STMA's version is well designed and easy to use. You should enjoy this aircraft for many hours in X-Plane.
Get it at:
DA40 by Shade Tree Micro Aviation
Price : $12.95
Version used for this review:
X-Plane 9.01
X-Plane 8.60
Scenery used for this review:
Paris by Beber
Inside Passage by Tom Curtis
Corsica by lebelge
Additional screenshots: