The DA42 has the advantage of using AVTUR and uses in the region of 50% less/hr v. Senaca.
In round terms 25% per hour in terms of fuel costs. Big smile on the faces of the beancounters.
Annual maintenance costs can prove to be expensive. Their construction material is modern, but how robust are they with the punishing nature of training?
FTEs PA28s first operated by British Aerospace at Prestwick from1988 are still used at Jerez for the SE phase. An ideal platform for basic training.
As a training platform the DA42 is ideal for ME PPL IR training. Easy to fly. Once qualified on type, put your golf clubs in the back, fly for an hour. Land. Golf, then RTB.
To quote an experienced ME FI from one of the "Big 3" : 'my old Mum could pass her IR on the DA42'.
Piper will be more demanding to fly and require a higher level of basic skill which is necessary for the next phases of training.
The DA42 can mask shortcomings. Piper is far less likely to do so.
Set the ATTITUDE AND TRIM