South African airborne laser scanning company Delmon Aviation has taken delivery of the first DA42 MPP GeoSTAR from Diamond Airborne Sensing (DAS), a subsidiary of Diamond Aircraft, and its local partner Elegance Group.

The aircraft is equipped with the latest Garmin G1000 glass cockpit, a fully integrated autopilot system, an in-house designed on-top exhaust system that reduces noise levels by 21 decibels, and the AE300 diesel engines using Jet-A1.

Diamond's DA42 MPP GeoSTAR carries a Leica laser scanner which is used for all kinds of infrastructure planning missions.

“We are pleased to have received our new Diamond DA42 MPP here in South Africa. Our business has changed since we purchased our first DA42 last year,” says Delmon md Bob Neill. “Operating these aircraft provides our business with extremely low costs, Jet-A1 fuel burn and an endurance of up to eight hours.

“This immensely benefits our clients as it reduces project costs and turnaround times while providing added safety on the project.”

Md of Elegance Group Max Hussman adds: “An innovative approach and strategy have proven to be the right path forward. We are proud of our great relationship with Diamond Aircraft Industries and with great anticipation expect further exciting news to follow.”

DAS sales director Markus Fischer says: “Delivery of the first GeoSTAR to South Africa shows the importance of geodesy and laser-scanning in fast growing countries. It will be possible to realise a 3D database without creating noise pollution to residents.”