This milestone delivery revives Diamond’s presence in the Croatian market, following the last new aircraft delivery by Aviotrade d.o.o. in 2011—a DV20 Katana to the Croatian Aviation Training Center (HZNS), an organizational unit of the Faculty of Transport Sciences in Zagreb.
“We are delighted to see the Diamond brand expand in our neighbor Croatia and congratulate Aviotrade on its new aircraft,” said Jane Wang, Director of Sales, Marketing, and Flight Operations at Diamond Aircraft Austria. “The DA40 is the perfect plane for flight training and private use, especially in a country like Croatia and the wider region. We’re thrilled that Diamond enthusiasts in Croatia will once again enjoy the experience of flying a brand-new Diamond aircraft.”
Rajko Rauš, Director of Aviotrade d.o.o., accepted the aircraft earlier this year at Diamond Aircraft’s headquarters in Wiener Neustadt. This DA40 NG joins a small but notable fleet of Diamond aircraft operated in Croatia: some DV20 including the one still in use at the University of Zagreb, a number of DA40, and one DA42 aircraft.
“We are delighted to showcase this beautiful aircraft in Croatia—it’s already attracting a lot of positive interest in the Croatian aviation community,” said Rauš. “It’s a privilege to be bringing the first new Diamond Aircraft to Croatia after so many years.”
Aviotrade plans to launch a nationwide demonstration tour in the coming months, offering aviation enthusiasts and potential customers across Croatia the opportunity to experience the DA40 NG firsthand. This will be done in collaboration with Austria-based flight training organization Montana Training OG, which provides the instructional and organizational framework for standardization training of instructors as well as differences training for customers and interested pilots.
Hans Friedrich Gaida, Director of Montana Training, an active airline captain, flight instructor and head of training emphasized the aircraft’s training potential: “The DA40 NG is the ultimate tool for our future training and demonstration activities. From fleet commonality with the DA42 to the availability of streamlined simulation devices, it meets all requirements—from beginner to advanced professional training. The DA40 NG combines an efficient powerplant with a reliable, tested, and safe airframe, all with low operating costs.”
Powered by a 168hp Austro Engine AE300 turbocharged diesel engine, the DA40 NG features an ECU single-lever control system and runs on Jet A-1 fuel, offering both cost-efficiency and sustainability. It remains a top choice for flight schools and private pilots around the world.
For more information about the DA40 series, click here.