Aquila A211 vs Diamond DA20 Katana

The Aquila A210 and Diamond DA20 are sleek composite two-seat trainers — both efficient, modern low-wing/canopy two-seaters popular with schools.

Live Market Snapshot

Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · re-checked on a rolling daily cycle

Aquila A211
For sale now
10
Model years available
2002–2023
Diamond DA20 Katana
For sale now
25
Median asking
$101,828
Range
$74,354–$400,826
Model years available
1993–2026

Live data from AeroGurus, aggregated daily across the used-aircraft market. Figures are current asking prices, not appraisals — confirm with a pre-buy inspection.

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Aquila A211 Diamond DA20 Katana
Aquila A211
View 1 listings →
Median $177,102
Diamond DA20 Katana
View 25 listings →
Median $101,828
Price Range $154,707 – $204,524 $74,354 – $400,826
Category Single Engine Piston Single Engine Piston
Model Specifications
Seats 2 2
Horsepower 100 HP 125 HP
Cruise Speed 130 kts (241 km/h) 117 kts (217 km/h)
Range 535 nm (991 km) 525 nm (972 km)
Service Ceiling 14,000 ft (4,267 m) 13,120 ft (3,999 m)
Max Gross Weight 1,653 lbs (750 kg) 1,654 lbs (750 kg)
Useful Load 525 lbs (238 kg) 606 lbs (275 kg)
Fuel Burn 5.5 GPH (21 L/h) 5.5 GPH (21 L/h)
Engines 1 x Piston 1 x Piston

Which Should You Buy: Aquila A211 or Diamond DA20 Katana?

Bottom line: Choose the Diamond DA20 for its strong safety record, large training fleet and support; choose the Aquila A210 for a refined composite cabin and efficient cruise. DA20 = safety/fleet; Aquila = refined/efficient.

Pick the A211 if…

  • Faster cruise — 130 kts vs 117 kts.
  • Longer range — 535 nm vs 525 nm.

Pick the DA20 Katana if…

  • Budget matters — from $74,354 vs $154,707, you save ~$80,353.
  • More inventory — 25 listings vs 1.

Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, Aquila A211 or Diamond DA20 Katana?
It depends on your mission and budget. The A211 cruises at 130 kts with 535 nm range. The DA20 Katana cruises at 117 kts with 525 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Diamond DA20 Katana: from $259,900. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Aquila A211 and Diamond DA20 Katana?
Cruise: 130 vs 117 kts. Range: 535 vs 525 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Variable cost includes fuel, reserves and overhaul accruals. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, annual inspection) add to the total.
Which has more seats and useful load?
A211: 2 seats / 525 lb useful load. DA20 Katana: 2 seats / 606 lb useful load. Useful load = max gross weight minus empty weight; it determines how much fuel plus payload you can carry.
How does maintenance compare — TBO and overhaul cost?
Reaching the time-between-overhaul (TBO) triggers a mandatory engine/airframe rebuild that affects resale value.
Disclaimer: All prices and cost estimates are from third-party sources for informational purposes only. Always obtain professional appraisal and inspection before purchase.
Prices re-checked on a rolling cycle — most within a few days · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data