December 19, 2008, The Diamond DA40 CS Diamond Star has been selected for the Powered Flight Program at the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA). Twenty Diamond DA40 CS aircraft have been ordered, with deliveries to begin in early 2009. The USAFA Powered Flight Program is an airmanship course that incorporates both academic study and flight training to introduce cadets to the core aviation mission of the United States Air Force. The 557th Flight Training Squadron will operate the aircraft from the USAFA at Colorado Springs, Colorado, under a contract managed by Blue Sky Aviation, the primary contractor, and their partner Doss Aviation.

“We are very excited to have been chosen for this contract and for the opportunity to provide cadet flight instruction in our new DA40s,” said Anthony Sweet, President of Blue Sky Aviation. Ken Smith, President and CEO of Doss Aviation, Inc. added, “This is a fantastic opportunity for us. We have enjoyed a great relationship for several years with Diamond Aircraft and the United States Air Force Academy. It’s a great win for our team and an even greater win for the Academy’s flight training program.”

The Diamond DA20 two-seat aircraft was flown in the USAFA Introductory Flight Training program from 2002-2007. Today, all USAF pilot and combat weapon system officer candidates receive primary flight training in the DA20 as part of the USAF Initial Flight Screening program at Pueblo, Colorado, operated by Doss Aviation.“Diamond Aircraft is honored by the selection of the DA40 CS and our continued association with the United States Air Force Academy,” said David Moser, Director of Fleet Sales at Diamond Aircraft. “Through the Powered Flight Program, cadets will be exposed to a modern aircraft, with cutting edge avionics, very early in their military careers.” 

The DA40 is a four-seat, single engine, all composite, technically advanced aircraft that features the Garmin G1000 glass cockpit. The aircraft’s fuel economy, performance and industry-leading safety record make it a favorite of leading flight training organizations and personal operators. It is well suited for primary and instrument flight training, as well as for personal transportation.