_____Frequently asked Questions

_____Here we answer frequently asked questions about our airplanes, the training and the school.

_____If you still have questions, feel free to drop us an email anytime!
  • Diamond Aircraft vs. older Airplanes
  • Can I fly it to see how different it is? Back to Top
    Let the instructor take you for a short flight and you can see how much easier the plane is to fly and how simple your transition will be. The yoke to stick transition takes about ten minutes to learn.
  • What about all the training that I have already done in a Cessna or Piper? Back to Top
    Your radio work, procedures and in-flight operations are all the same. The Diamond is easier to start, easier to fly and easier to land, so you will probably feel at the same comfort level after only one or two flights.
  • What about all the CBI kit studying that I have done? Back to Top
    You can continue using the CBI kit or you may choose to purchase the Jeppesen. You may want to use them in conjunction with each other. The study materials are non-aircraft-specific, so what you are learning will apply to any aircraft.
  • I am not sure if I will understand the Garmin 1000 Back to Top
    The basics of the G-1000 looks and acts the same as your conventional gauges and radio. The more detailed parts of the Garmin you may want to learn about later, but you can fly with the basic knowledge to start.
  • I attended the Transition Training for the Cessna aircraft, how can I transition to the Diamond G1000? Back to Top
    The G1000 in the Cessna aircraft is almost identical to the G1000 in the Diamond aircraft. There are some minor differences that are easily explained by your Europe-American instructor.
  • How big is the price difference? Back to Top
    The Diamond is state of the art, high tech and brand new. The DA20 out performs the C172 and costs only $106.00 p/h. Due to its improved efficiency we are able to drop the fuel surcharge for the first time in a year. Compared to the C172 G1000; the DA40 FP costs $12.00 less per hour. Comparing the C182 G1000; to the DA40 CS it has better performance and cost $12.00 less per hour.
  • Is financing still available for training since you are not a Cessna Pilot Center? Back to Top
    Yes, financing is still available through the PILOT FINANCE program.
  • CBI Kit vs. Jeppesen
  • Can I continue using the CBI Kit instead of the Jeppesen? Back to Top
    Yes, however you would limit yourself. It is still good for all the general info, airspace, etc. We would recommend that you switch to our new training materials so you could take advantage of our new ground school program. ALL advanced training after your Private Pilot will be Jeppesen based.
  • Why did you choose to switch training material? Back to Top
    The CBI Kit and the Jeppesen are great training material. We are basing our training around Jeppesen since it is more detailed and is less expensive.
  • I already bought a CBI Kit, do I need to buy a Jeppesen now Back to Top
    You can continue with the kit you have, or you may choose to change to the Jeppesen. It is up to you. We are approved to train with both kits.
  • Is the training material by Jeppesen FAA certified? Back to Top
    Yes, it is now the basis for our Part 141 certification. We are now certified to offer Part 141 PPL, IFR, and Commercial Single & Multi Engine.
  • Pricing
  • How much is the price difference for the PPL? Back to Top
    Based on Part 141, your training should be comparative in pricing. The training is in a G1000 aircraft, to provide you with the most technologically advanced training.
  • Is it cheaper to finish my training somewhere else and then return to rent? Back to Top
    You are not jeopardizing your training by switching aircraft. In fact you will be using a more advanced plane that will provide you with a better experience. This is a great benefit to you and you don’t need an additional checkout when you are done training.
  • Since I am a current customer, am I offered a discount for this transition? Back to Top
    We have several different packages available; they are based on your specific training needs.
  • Why is the Diamond more expensive than the Cessna’s? Back to Top
    The Cessna is an ‘old’ designed aircraft. It has not really been changed since it was designed in the 50’s. The Diamond aircraft offers a complete line of newly designed aircraft, from the conventional gauges to the Garmin 1000. The pricing difference comes from the advanced technology the aircraft offers. All of our planes are brand new and mostly all Garmin 1000 equipped.
  • How big is the price difference? Back to Top
    The Diamond is state of the art, high tech and brand new. The DA20 out performs the C172 and costs only $106.00 p/h. Due to its improved efficiency we are able to drop the fuel surcharge for the first time in a year. Compared to the C172 G1000; the DA40 FP costs $12.00 less per hour. Comparing the C182 G1000; to the DA40 CS it has better performance and cost $12.00 less per hour.
  • Rental Checkout
  • I have been checked out on the Cessna’s; do I need to get checked out for the Diamond? Back to Top
    Yes, you would need a normal rental checkout with an instructor. This is with any new type aircraft you fly.
  • I did not do the G1000 Transition Training; can I still rent the plane? Back to Top
    Yes, you will require a short ground instruction on our simulator so that you can use the basic functions of the Garmin 1000. A normal checkout will follow, just to make sure you can safely fly the plane. If you want to increase your working knowledge or intend to fly it under IFR we can recommend the full Garmin 1000 Transition Training
  • Do I have to pay full price for the checkout since I am a current renter? Back to Top
    We do have special promotions available. You need to see the front desk for more details.
  • Are you still offering Cessna’s for rent? Back to Top
    No, we will only have Diamond aircraft to training and rentals. We do however have many promotions for this transition.
  • Are the insurance deductibles the same as before? Back to Top
    All the aircraft will have a $5,000 deductible, due to the fact these airplanes are made from composite material. We highly recommend you purchase renters insurance for your protection. Ask for more details at the front desk.
  • Will I be offered a discount if I decide to stay a customer? Back to Top
    Yes, we have several promotions available; they are based on your training or rental needs.
  • How big is the price difference? Back to Top
    The Diamond is state of the art, high tech and brand new. The DA20 out performs the C172 and costs only $106.00 p/h. Due to its improved efficiency we are able to drop the fuel surcharge for the first time in a year. Compared to the C172 G1000; the DA40 FP costs $12.00 less per hour. Comparing the C182 G1000; to the DA40 CS it has better performance and cost $12.00 less per hour.