Training Aircraft Manufacturer Restarts Popular Model Production in Europe in 2025

Austria – Diamond Aircraft Industries (DAI) has announced the re‑introduction of the two‑seat trainer/leisure aircraft DA20i Katana into European production, opening order books for both flight schools and private owners.

• The DA20i Katana returns to European manufacture at DAI’s Wiener Neustadt facility, responding to “a surge in demand from flight schools, flying clubs, and private owners”.

• The aircraft will be fitted with a Rotax 912 iSc3 Sport engine (modern, fuel‑efficient) and a Garmin G500TXi glass‑cockpit avionics suite—bringing advanced features such as synthetic vision, terrain awareness and real‑time traffic into a proven airframe.

• DAI points out that the airframe is built on the composite structure of the DA20 series, long acknowledged for structural durability, low maintenance and suitability for training operations.

• According to the company’s own material, the DA20i variant offers the Rotax engine alongside the glass‑cockpit option, combining operational economy with modern avionics.

• Portuguese Flight School Lusofly Academy in September introduced the country's first Diamond DA20 for UPRT and VFR Training

Statements:

• “We’re thrilled to bring the DA20i Katana back to Europe,” Jane Wang, Director Sales, Marketing, and Flight Ops at Diamond Aircraft Austria. “This aircraft has always held a special place in the hearts of pilots and instructors, and with its new upgrades, it’s ready to inspire the next generation of aviators.”

Source: Diamond Aircraft