Installation TKS on DA42 VI post-factory

[lgv]

Am new to forum, been training in a DA40, and thinking of buying a DA42. The plane I am looking at does not have TKS, which is a non-starter for me. Questions:

1) Does anyone know if TKS can be installed as an aftermarket option?
2) Can an aftermarket installation be certified for FIKI?
3) Does it negatively affect the performance of the plane at all?
4) Any idea of cost?

Thanks in advance.

[shorton]

I recently asked the Austria factory about the cost to retrofit a TKS system onto a DA-42NG. The answer I received was, "approximately 120,000 euros".

[Guest]

Wow. Thanks - that is huge number.

[CFIDave]

You must be looking at the listing for the DA42-VI for sale in Singapore. This may be the one owned by the former President of Malaysian Airlines.

The reason this DA42-VI is relatively inexpensive is because it lacks a TKS system. I'm amazed it's even possible to retrofit TKS given how much of the plane would need to be disassembled and/or replaced.

This plane might be great for a flight school in warmer climates, e.g., Embry Riddle U's new fleet of 10 DA42-VIs all lack de-ice (but include air conditioning). But for personal/business use of a DA42, I would want to have the TKS system. With turbocharged engines, the plane performs best when flown up high where it's colder.

[Guest]

Thanks for feedback.

[Colin]

I know someone else that looked at that plane. It sounds like a fantastic deal for an amazing machine. The possibility of adding FIKI sounds impossible (sort of like installing an autopilot into a DA40 that was released without one). Before I had my DA42 you could have convinced me to get one without FIKI. Now that I have used it I don't think I could go back.

[carym]

For anyone flying IFR in the US outside of the most southern states, I would never again get a plane without FIKI protection. I have had enough serious icing events in unprotected planes. That is why, in part, I sold my C310 and got the DA42.

[Guest]

Again thanks for feedback. Very much appreciated.