Diamond to Show Austro Engine Alternative at EAA AirVenture

Operators of Diamond aircraft that are currently powered by Thielert Aircraft Engines' diesel piston power plants will have a first chance to see the alternative next week at EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Diamond will have an example of its developmental AE 300 Austro engine on display. The developmental 170 hp turbodiesel engine is earmarked to replace the Thielert engines on some Diamond models, notably the Twin Star light twin. Diamond has fast-tracked development of the engine as a replacement for its original Thielert engines. That manufacturer has been in the throes of German insolvency proceedings, following criminal charges filed earlier this year against founder Frank Thielert for false and misleading financial claims. Diamond recently announced it had withdrawn itself from consideration as a potential bidder to acquire Thielert in the insolvency process. In addition to the new engine, Diamond will display all its aircraft models, including the developmental D-Jet in mock-up and static-display form.