New Zealand – Auckland International Pilot Academy (AIPA) has confirmed the arrival of a Diamond DA42-VI Twin Star from Australia, strengthening AIPA’s advanced training capability as demand continues to grow for highly trained pilots across New Zealand and internationally.

The DA42-VI will supplement AIPA’s existing available DA42 resource, increasing capacity for multi-engine and IFR training and supporting consistent, high-quality outcomes for students progressing toward commercial aviation careers.

John Punshon, CEO, Auckland International Pilot Academy, said: “This aircraft is a major step forward for AIPA. It strengthens our ability to deliver high-quality multi-engine and IFR training at scale, using modern systems that support standardisation, safety, and real-world readiness.”

New Zealand’s most well-equipped multi-engine IFR trainer

AIPA expects this DA42-VI to be the most well-equipped multi-engine IFR training aircraft in New Zealand, enhancing situational awareness and training effectiveness through a highly advanced avionics and safety configuration.

Modern avionics and training-ready capability

The aircraft is equipped with Garmin G1000 NXi avionics, including Synthetic Vision Technology (SVT) and ADS-B In/Out. It also includes an integrated Garmin GFC 700 autopilot with yaw damper, a factory-installed oxygen system, traffic awareness (Avidyne TAS 605A), and weather radar (Garmin GWX70)—supporting structured IFR and multi-engine training aligned with real-world operational decision-making.

The aircraft is currently registered VH-VNX and is expected to operate in New Zealand as ZK-CGX.

AIPA expects the aircraft to be online by the end of January 2026, following standard acceptance checks, any required regulatory steps, and instructor standardisation.

Supporting advanced flight training in New Zealand

This delivery reflects Utility Air’s commitment to supporting aviation operators and training organisations across Australia and New Zealand with premium aircraft solutions.

“The Diamond DA42-VI is an exceptional platform for advanced training and operational flying,” said Utility Air. “We’re delighted to support Auckland International Pilot Academy with an aircraft that delivers outstanding safety, efficiency, and capability for their members and students.”

About Utility Air
Utility Air is a leading aircraft sales, support, and solutions provider in the AsiaPacific region, specialising in Diamond Aircraft sales, demonstrator aircraft, and end-to-end customer support for private owners, flying schools, and commercial operators.

About Auckland International Pilot Academy (AIPA)
Auckland International Pilot Academy (AIPA) delivers full-time, professional pilot training from North Shore Airport in Auckland. Backed by the heritage of its parent organisation, North Shore Aero Club (est. 1963), AIPA combines decades of aviation experience with modern training systems and a strong safety culture.

Over the past 12 months, the Academy has doubled in size, reflecting growing demand from both domestic and international students pursuing professional aviation careers. AIPA offers NZQA-recognised Diploma pathways, including the New Zealand Diploma in Aviation Level 5 (General Aviation) and Level 6 (Aeroplane Flight Instructor) aligned with CAA licensing outcomes, as well as the Diploma in Aviation Level 5 (DGCA) aligned with DGCA licensing outcomes.

Source: Auckland International Pilot Academy
Photo Credit: Auckland International Pilot Academy