Laser scanner and survey systems developer Riegl Laser Measurement Systems has acquired a DA62 SurveyStar as a new test and calibration aircraft from Diamond Aircraft Austria. After successfully operating one of the very first DA42 GeoStar aircraft for nearly 15 years, Riegl also becomes the first Austrian operator of its groundbreaking successor, the DA62 SurveyStar.

Due to the close cooperation between the companies, the complete line of Riegl’s airborne laser scanners and systems can already be fitted on the new test aircraft for trials.

Dr Johannes Riegl, CEO and an enthusiastic pilot himself, says: “After many years of successfully using our Diamond DA42 MPP for test flights, the increased development and production expansion of our range of high end airborne laser scanners means that it is now also appropriate to expand and modernise our aircraft fleet. The DA62 SurveyStar is exactly the right device to continue to be at the cutting edge of technology also in the field of aviation for many years to come. Not to mention that I personally look forward with enthusiasm to piloting this beautiful bird myself in the future.”

Diamond Aircraft director Markus Fischer adds: “Beside so many already sold and delivered DA62 SurveyStars, this one is my absolute favourite as I have known Dr Riegl since I joined Diamond Aircraft in 2006. It has always been an absolute honour and pleasure to work with everyone at Riegl Laser Measurement Systems over the last 15 years. To have the world’s most modern airborne scanner manufacturer as a partner and customer is an outstanding privilege. I am looking forward to delivering this unit personally to Dr Riegl and his team.”

The DA62 MPP is the latest variant of Diamond Aircraft’s successful special mission aircraft portfolio. The all carbon fibre, twin engine aircraft is equipped with a glass cockpit and a fully integrated autopilot. It is powered by two turbocharged jet fuel engines with excellent fuel efficiency. The carbon fibre material is said to provide unlimited airframe life and is not subject to corrosion, even when operated in saline and humid environments.