Piper PA-28 Warrior vs Diamond DA40 Star

Piper Β· Diamond Aircraft

Quick answer

Piper PA-28 Warrior vs Diamond DA40 Star: Diamond DA40 Star wins on more measurable specs (4 of 5 categories). Piper PA-28 Warrior has 514 NM range and 117 kt cruise. Diamond DA40 Star has 683 NM range and 140 kt cruise.

Head-to-head specs

Piper PA-28 Warrior
Diamond DA40 Star
Manufacturer
Piper
Diamond Aircraft
Type
single engine piston
single engine piston
Engines
1
1
Max Pax
3 pax
3 pax
Range
514 nm
683 nm
Cruise Speed
117 kt
140 kt
Service Ceiling
13,000 ft
16,400 ft
MTOW
1,055 kg
1,150 kg
Type Rating
Not required
Not required

Piper PA-28 Warrior

Low-wing trainer competing with the Cessna 172 as the primary training aircraft. Stable platform with good control harmony for students.

Full Piper PA-28 Warrior guide β†’

Diamond DA40 Star

Modern composite trainer with glass cockpit and excellent safety record. Garmin G1000 integration makes it ideal for modern training environments.

Full Diamond DA40 Star guide β†’

Frequently asked questions

Which is faster, Piper PA-28 Warrior or Diamond DA40 Star?

Diamond DA40 Star cruises faster β€” Piper PA-28 Warrior at 117 kt vs Diamond DA40 Star at 140 kt.

Which has longer range?

Diamond DA40 Star flies farther β€” Piper PA-28 Warrior 514 NM vs Diamond DA40 Star 683 NM.

Do both require a type rating?

Piper PA-28 Warrior: No type rating required. Diamond DA40 Star: No type rating required.

Which is harder to fly?

Difficulty depends on transition experience. Neither requires a type rating β€” both can be flown with appropriate class ratings and a checkout.

Type rating prep with Rotate

Aircraft systems, performance & operating procedures for FAA, EASA, ICAO.

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