PRECISION TRAINING

Diamond DA20i Katana

The Diamond DA20i Katana is the aircraft where every AELO pilot’s journey begins. Light, responsive and built for primary flight training, it is the ideal starting point on the path to a commercial licence. AELO has ordered a fleet of 12 DA20i Katanas, further expanding its training capacity and commitment to modern, high-quality instruction.

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Key Features

Efficient Engine
Efficient Engine BRP-Powertrain Rotax 912 iSc3 Sport with 100 HP — low fuel consumption (2.9 US gal/hr), high reliability, perfect for building the first flight hours.
Precise Handling
Precise Handling Diamond composite construction with low-drag wing design. The DA20i responds accurately to control inputs, building correct habits from the very first flight.
New fleet
Brand New Fleet AELO’s DA20i aircraft are part of a multi-aircraft order placed directly with Diamond Aircraft. New fleet, impeccable maintenance, maximum availability.
Certified
Certified for Training EASA-certified for PPL training and initial flight hours within the ATPL Integrated programme. The first step before transitioning to the DA40 and the Boeing 737 simulator.
Intuitive Cockpit Modern
Intuitive Cockpit Modern two-seat cockpit designed to maximise learning in the air and reduce cognitive load for student pilots from day one.

Diamond DA20 Details

Technical info

Technical Specifications

Technical Specifications: Diamond DA20

Engine: BRP-Powertrain Rotax 912 iSc3 Sport — 100 HP
Seats: 2
Propeller: MT propeller MTV-21-A/175-05, 2-blade constant speed
Flight rules: VFR (day/night)
Rating: SEP(A)
Fuel grades: Avgas 100LL / Mogas min. RON 95 / Super EN 228

Performance	Metric	Imperial
Max cruise speed	226 km/h	122 kts
Stalling speed (landing config)	83 km/h	45 kts
Max rate of climb	3.4 m/s	667 ft/min
Max range	1,302 km	703 nm
Fuel consumption	11.1 lt/hr	2.9 US gal/hr
Take-off distance	500 m	1,640 ft
Landing distance	507 m	1,663 ft
Max operating altitude	4,000 m	13,100 ft
Max demonstrated crosswind	37 km/h	20 kts

Dimensions & Mass	Metric	Imperial
Length	7.15 m	23 ft 5 in
Height	2.10 m	6 ft 11 in
Wingspan	10.87 m	35 ft 8 in
Empty weight	525 kg	1,158 lbs
Max take-off mass	800 kg	1,764 lbs
Max usable fuel capacity	84 lt	22.2 US gal

Overview

The Diamond DA20i Katana is a two-seat, single-engine composite aircraft designed specifically for primary flight training. Powered by the BRP-Powertrain Rotax 912 iSc3 Sport with 100 HP, it combines low operating costs with responsive handling — making it the ideal aircraft for the first phase of the AELO ATPL Integrated programme.

With a cruise speed of 122 kts, a range of 703 nm and fuel consumption of just 2.9 US gal/hr, the DA20i offers an efficient and reliable training platform. AELO’s fleet of DA20i aircraft is brand new, sourced directly from Diamond Aircraft as part of a multi-aircraft order signed in 2025.

Safety

Safety in the Alps

The DA20i is built around Diamond Aircraft’s signature composite airframe — lightweight, rigid and designed to absorb impact energy in the unlikely event of an incident. Its low stall speed of 45 kts and predictable flight characteristics make it one of the safest environments for student pilots to develop their skills.

The aircraft’s forgiving handling in crosswind conditions (max demonstrated crosswind: 20 kts) and its proven performance across varying Alpine weather make it well suited to operations from AELO’s base at Locarno Airport.

Training

Comprehensive Training

The DA20i is the first aircraft AELO students fly in the ATPL Integrated programme. This is where the fundamentals are built: hand-foot coordination, attitude flying, VFR navigation and airspace management.

Once students have consolidated their core skills on the DA20i, they transition to the Diamond DA40 with Garmin G1000 glass cockpit — a natural step up that builds on the foundations developed during primary training. From there, progression continues through instrument and multi-engine training towards the Boeing 737 NG simulator.

CH.ATO.0311

Aeroporto 21, 6596 Gordola, Switzerland

Course Information & Admissions:
+41 79 544 07 77 | admissions@aeloswissacademy.com

Administration:
+41 79 544 07 77 | info@aeloswissacademy.com

Approved Training Organization:

CH.ATO.0311

Main Base: Locarno Airport
Via Aeroporto 21, 6596 Gordola, Switzerland

Satellite base: Lugano Airport
Via Aeroporto, 6982 Agno, Switzerland

Course Information & Admissions:

Tlf: +41 79 544 07 77

Email: admissions@aeloswissacademy.com

Administration:

Tlf: +41 91 745 20 27

Email: info@aeloswissacademy.com