Diamond DA20 performance in the southwest?

Irish_Armada

Irish_Armada

Pre-takeoff checklist
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Oct 8, 2011
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Irish Armada
Hi all,

I'm looking into purchasing a DA20 (eventually) for a first plane. The main purpose will be for poking holes in the sky but also occasionally for some lengthy cross countries if possible. I live in northern California but hope to visit family on a somewhat regular basis in San Diego, Arizona, and Texas. I've heard great things about DA20's high density altitude performance, but have been told recently by a high time pilot I respect that those are unrealistic mission expectations for the 20. Any reactions? Assume my girlfriend and I can pack our x-country luggage in 44 lbs or less and that I know about the plane's VFR limitations... thanks!
 
If you can deal with the size and speed (faster than most small planes but not speedy) I would take a Kat anywhere in the country with out a second thought. I've been over 14k in one a few times and it was quite happy with room to go higher.
 
Not licensed for IMC, and you will encounter some on any long trip for which you have a time constraint.

Be sure you can wear the thing (DA-20) for four hours at a time.....
 
Check out Placerville Aviation in KPVF. They operate DA 20's and can give you a mountain checkout.
 
Sac Arrow said:
Check out Placerville Aviation in KPVF. They operate DA 20's and can give you a mountain checkout.
Click to expand...

Good idea. I was planning on getting some more hours in their DA20's, but didn't realize they do a mountain checkout in them too. I will definitely add that to the list.
 
Skylane81E said:
If you can deal with the size and speed (faster than most small planes but not speedy) I would take a Kat anywhere in the country with out a second thought. I've been over 14k in one a few times and it was quite happy with room to go higher.
Click to expand...

Thanks. And that's impressive -- I was under the impression that the service ceiling was 13,100 feet in the Eclipse (maybe the Katana is different)? Either way, good to know that they can get up there.
 
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