Diamond has announced that the D-Jet, which is undergoing certification in Canada, is getting a bigger engine, delaying first deliveries until the second quarter of 2009. The five-place personal jet was rolled out with a Williams FJ33 rated at 1,564 pounds of thrust but the new engine, the FJ33-19, will push 1,900 pounds. Diamond CEO Peter Maurer said that in the interests of conformity and future resale value it was decided that all D-Jets would get the bigger engine, rather than introducing it after production begins. The FJ33-19 engine is the perfect match for the D-Jet, offering the latest technology and a potential performance and utility upgrade path for delivered aircraft that the current engine just doesnt allow, Maurer said.
Williams spokesman Matt Huff said the new engine has advances including new compressor technology and a built-in precooler that improve performance. With respect to the D-Jet, the bigger engine will result in better bleed air handling and improved specific fuel consumption. We are pleased that our accelerated development schedule for this engine now makes it feasible for Diamond to launch with the FJ33-19, instead of introducing it after initial aircraft deliveries.” Current position holders will get their more-powerful D-Jet for the original contract price but a price adjustment for new orders is coming soon.
