Diamond Aircraft Da 80

Single Jet

The Diamond DA80 represents Diamond Aircraft's ambitious entry into the very light jet market, combining the Austrian manufacturer's signature composite airframe expertise with single-engine jet economics. Certified in 2022 after a protracted development that began in the early 2010s, the DA80 is a five-seat pressurized business jet powered by a single Williams FJ33 turbofan mounted in a pusher configuration at the rear fuselage. This unconventional layout, rare among certified jets, delivers exceptional visibility from the cockpit and a remarkably quiet cabin, while the all-composite construction keeps empty weight below 4,000 pounds. The aircraft cruises at 330 knots true airspeed up to FL310, offering range around 1,100 nautical miles with reserves, positioning it as an owner-flown alternative to traditional light twins for business travelers prioritizing efficiency over raw speed. What distinguishes the DA80 in the VLJ category is its focus on single-pilot certification and operating costs closer to high-performance piston twins than conventional jets: fuel burn around 55 gallons per hour makes it one of the most economical jets in production. The type competes directly with the Cirrus Vision Jet (SF50) in the single-engine jet niche, though the DA80 offers slightly higher cruise speeds and a more conventional jet-like flight deck. Early adoption has been concentrated in Europe and North America among owner-pilots stepping up from piston aircraft like the DA62 or seeking jet performance without the complexity of multi-engine type ratings. SkyMeter has tracked 15 flights across 10 airframes and 2 operators, with GILLESPIE CHARLES the largest observed operator.