The DV20 Katana is a single-engine, two-seat, general aviation airplane developed and manufactured by Diamond Aircraft. Aviators consider the model a standout due to its exceptional handling, great performance, and forgivingness. The aircraft, alternatively designated the DA20, took its maiden flight in 1991, was introduced in 1992, and remains in production.
Diamond Aircraft developed the DV20 from their earlier offering, the HK36 Super Dimona, a high-performance motorglider. The DV20 features all-composite construction, a fixed tricycle undercarriage with wheel pants, and a T-tail empennage. It has a low-mounted, high-aspect-ratio main wing with slotted flaps, side-by-side seating, and a bubble canopy. Due to its seating arrangement, high-visibility cockpit design, and handling, the DA20 is renowned as an exceptional trainer and is used by the U.S. Air Force for basic flight instruction.
The DV20 measures 23 feet, 6 inches in length, stands 7 feet, 2 inches tall, and has a wingspan of 35 feet, 8 inches. It is powered by a single Continental IO-240-B3B 4-cylinder piston engine that delivers up to 125 horsepower and turns a 2-blade, fixed-pitch propeller.
The DV20 has a maximum range of 629 miles, a service ceiling of 13,120 feet above sea level, and a maximum climb rate of 1,000 feet per minute. It cruises at 159 miles per hour and has a stall speed of 52 mph.