Diamond Fly-In

Air shows have become increasingly popular in recent years. They provide an opportunity to meet other pilots, exchange experiences, and learn about new aircraft. In late September 2025, Diamond Aircraft organized its second brand-specific air show at the company’s airport in Wiener Neustadt, Austria.  

A few years ago, I spent almost every weekend during the warmer months at air shows or air rallies. As my career progressed and other responsibilities arose, my “frequency” of attending such events decreased significantly. When I was invited to participate in the Diamond Fly-In, I enthusiastically said “Yes.” 

Wiener Neustadt 

The entire event was scheduled for the last weekend of September, September 27–28, 2025. We flew to the Wiener Neustadt factory airport (LOAN) together with JB Aviation & Aeroclub on Saturday just before 9:00 a.m. to arrive in time for the event’s opening ceremony. The weather outside was cloudy, but there was no rain or strong wind, and the cloud bases were well above the RNP approach minimums. Some of the participants had planned to arrive as early as Friday, but low cloud bases prevented some aircraft from participating, while others were diverted to alternate airports.  

Diamond Aircraft occupied most of the southern part of the airport, with numerous hangars and production facilities. It was also impossible not to notice the huge number of different DA40, DA50, and DA62 models on display in the parking lot— some of which were aircraft awaiting delivery in the near future, while others belonged to participants in the airshow. 

We entered the main hangar, where new aircraft are usually delivered. It had been completely transformed for this event—on the left were airplanes in various configurations and liveries, and on the right was the main stage, along with chairs and tables for the participants and refreshments. It made quite an impression, especially since we spent most of the day there. 

We also spotted some familiar faces—pilots from Diamond and sales representativesthe aircraft themselves, with whom we always have plenty of aviation topics and stories to share. Frank Zhang, CEO of Diamond Aircraft, took the stage and officially opened the event— Over the next few hours, there were panel discussions, air shows, aircraft presentations, and demonstration flights. 

Lectures and Training Sessions 

This was one of the main highlights of the visit to the Diamond Aircraft facilities. It began with an Engine Workshop training session, during which representatives from Austro Engine and Continental Engines discussed selected engine systems and solutions. While this knowledge is primarily intended for mechanics, I felt it was also a very positive aspect that pilots and aircraft owners were involved so they could get to know their aircraft even better.  

The Aircraft Workshop, led by Martin Scherrer, Head of Flight Operations at Diamond Aircraft, was also particularly noteworthy. It was a very informative presentation, focusing mainly on multi-engine aircraft operations and various potential hazardous situations—it’s always good to hear about a practical approach from such an experienced pilot. In addition, there were very useful “Tips & Tricks” regarding the use of the TKS system and topping off engine oil.  

It's also worth mentioning the panel discussion with Diamond aircraft owners, including pilot René Amstrupand, who recently flew around the world in his DA62. In addition, the tips on using the TKS system and topping off engine oil were very helpful. 

Diamond Demo Team 

An aviation event at an aircraft manufacturer’s headquarters simply couldn’t take place without an aviation component. During this event, the Diamond Demo Team—a group of four factory pilots flying in tight formation in all the aircraft on display—the DA40 NG, DA42, DA50 RG, and DA62—treated us to a display of their aerial prowess.  

Having the opportunity to admire their display and performance both from the ground and as part of the formation aboard the DA42, I had to admit that it made a huge impression. These experienced pilots, who were perfectly in sync with their aircraft—some of whom also had a history in the Austrian Air Force—knew exactly what close-formation flying entails.  

Not only was the precision of the flight a major highlight, but so was the overall polish of the display—including the synchronized taxiing in front of the audience, which rounded out the experience. It’s worth mentioning that the afternoon flight was one of the last factory flights for one of the pilots, Aron Gilbertsson, who is continuing his aviation adventure in larger aircraft. 

Demonstration flights 

Diamond Fly-In wasn’t just about presentations and air shows—it was also an opportunity to see all the planes up close. As I mentioned, the main hangar featured a display of many models—what caught my eye the most, aside from the various paint schemes and interiors, was the unusual configuration of the DA50 RG and DA42. The first of these models was prepared for a transatlantic flight, with an additional fuel tank located where the rear seats would normally be— an interesting solution and configuration demonstrating how the DA50 RG can be prepared for a transatlantic flight. The second is a variant of the DA42 featuring a so-called “bubble canopy,” or an additional domed canopy—a useful feature for MPP or military versions, where pilots fly wearing flight helmets, though less common in the civilian sector. 

Fly-In participants also had the opportunity to take test flights in select Diamond models—in my case, it was the DA50 RG, a factory model in a popular livery and the star of many photo shoots. I have to admit that describing this aircraft as an “SUV of the skies” captures its character very well—a pleasant and stable flight, plenty of comfort and convenience on the ground, simple operation, and, on top of that, excellent flight characteristics. Some of the visitors were DA40 owners who are considering upgrading to a DA50—in that case, the demonstration flight was the perfect solution, which pallowed them to dispel many doubts.  

The evening at the Wiener Neustadt airport was an opportunity to meet even more pilots and people involved in aviation. Events like this definitely bring aviators closer together and allow them to share experiences. Sunday was a day of return flights for some, and a day of demonstration flights for others—this time with better weather. See you at the next Diamond Fly-In in 2026. 

Text and photos:Filip Modrzejewski