Buying guide
Diamond DA42 or DA62: which twin to choose
Published November 9, 2026.
The DA42 and DA62 are Diamond's piston twins, with composite airframes and diesel engines that burn jet fuel (Jet A-1). They look like the same family, and they are, but they suit different people. Below is what the official EASA data sheets say about each one and how to choose between them.
Both models from the official data sheet
The DA42 is certificated on data sheet EASA.A.005, which groups several variants.1 The DA62 has its own data sheet, EASA.IM.A.629.2
| Model | Engines | Power per engine | Seats | Max. takeoff weight | Ceiling |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DA42 (first version) | 2 × Thielert/Technify TAE 125 | depends on engine model | 4 (pilot + 3) | 1,700 kg (1,785 kg with modification) | 18,000 ft |
| DA42 NG | 2 × Austro Engine E4 (AE300) | 123.5 kW (about 168 hp) | 4 (pilot + 3) | 1,900 kg (1,999 kg with modification) | 18,000 ft |
| DA62 | 2 × Austro Engine E4P (AE330) | 132 kW (about 177 hp) | 5, or 7 with modification | 1,999 kg (2,300 kg with modification) | 20,000 ft |
Both models require one pilot, fly IFR day and night, and may fly into known icing conditions when fitted with the fluid ice protection system specified in the data sheet.1,2 The DA42 data sheet also includes the DA42 M and DA42 M-NG variants, for special missions, with their own limitations.1
When the DA42 makes more sense
This part is our reading as brokers.
- Training and a first twin. It is the model many flight schools use to train pilots on twins, and it has four seats, enough for instructor, student and observer.
- Entry cost. Being smaller and longer on the market, it usually costs less than a DA62 of similar age.
- Watch the engine. First-version DA42s use Thielert engines, now Technify, and many have been converted to newer versions. The data sheet lists which conversions are approved.1 On the DA42 NG, the engines are Austro AE300. Knowing which engine is installed, and in what condition, is the first step.
When the DA62 makes more sense
- Family or load. The cabin is larger and, with the modification listed in the data sheet, it carries up to seven people.2 For trips with family and baggage, that is the difference that matters most.
- More power and a higher ceiling. Stronger engines, a higher maximum weight and a 20,000 ft ceiling, against 18,000 ft for the DA42.1,2
- Higher price. It is the newest and largest model in the line, and the purchase price follows.
What to check on either one
- Engines and propellers. Hours on each engine, whether they are original or exchanged, calendar limits, and compliance with Austro Engine or Technify bulletins and the propeller manufacturer's.
- Ice protection. Whether the aircraft has the fluid system approved for flight into icing, and whether it works.1,2
- Composite repairs. Any repair to the fuselage or wings must be backed by approved repair data.
- Records and history. Serial, registration, owner and accidents, following the routine we published in this post.
The DA42s and DA62s we have for sale
We currently list three DA42 NGs and two DA62s, with very different profiles:
- DA42 Twin Star NG: practically new, with 187 hours on the airframe and engines, a Garmin G1000 NXi panel and ice protection.
- DA42NG: a hard-working aircraft, with 4,006 hours and 4,811 landings, long-range tanks and ice protection.
- DA42NG: open to offers.
- DA62 and DA62: two examples of the larger model, details on request.
Sources
- EASA, type certificate data sheet EASA.A.005, Diamond DA 42 and variants, issue 44, Aug. 30, 2024: easa.europa.eu
- EASA, type certificate data sheet EASA.IM.A.629, Diamond DA 62, issue 8, Aug. 16, 2023: easa.europa.eu