Diamond Aircraft’s All-Electric eDA40 Completes First Flight

Diamond Aircraft has announced the first flight of its all-electric eDA40 single. The milestone flight took place at Diamond’s headquarters in Wiener Neustadt, Austria, on July 20. Safran Electrical & Power supplied the ENGINeUSTM electric smart motor, and Electric Power Systems (EPS) supplied the battery module, which is equipped with a direct current (DC) fast charging system. Diamond said it expects the eDA40 to be the first EASA/FAA Part 23 certified electric aircraft.

Diamond’s head of flight test Sören Pedersen was at the controls for the first flight. Tests included system checks, basic maneuvers and a preliminary performance evaluation. “The flight went as scheduled and delivered all results requested,” according to Diamond.

Liqun (Frank) Zhang, CEO of Diamond Aircraft Austria, said, “The aircraft performed outstandingly well during its maiden flight and not only met but exceeded all our expectations. We are very much looking forward to offer an exceptional sustainable aircraft for the flight training market of tomorrow.” He added, “We are extremely proud to announce another significant milestone for our all-electric eDA40.”