Diamond Aircraft has appointed Gemstone Aviation as its sole distributor for the UK and Republic of Ireland region. Gemstone Aviation directors Chris Dawes and Henrik Burkal have worked with Diamond in other roles since 2004 and were chosen for their experience of Diamond's aircraft and their reputation in the industry for exceptional customer service.

Gemstone director, sales and demonstrations Burkal previously spent 10 years with Diamond Aircraft UK and before that worked with Diamond Aircraft at Danish aircraft dealer Air Alpha. He has more than 40 years aviation experience in general and business aviation. He says: “We are very excited for our customers in the UK and Ireland who will have access to the full Diamond Aircraft range. We are all about matching the right aircraft to each owner based on their usage needs. This partnership allows us to deliver that better than ever before.”

Gemstone director, operations and marketing Dawes co-founded UK-based AOC operator and Part 145 Diamond Aircraft maintenance facility DEA Aviation Ltd 10 years ago. He has supplied microlights, hang gliders, paragliders and equipment through Airways Airsports in the sports aviation sector for over 25 years and has owned and piloted a Diamond aircraft since 1995.

Dawes adds: “Gemstone Aviation focusses on great customer service. We can broker the sales of owner's existing aircraft to maximise capital return and then help buy the right aircraft based on individual needs. We can manage the new aircraft and provide independent advice about registration paperwork, insurance, management and maintenance. As owners, instructors and operators we understand the issues, risks and opportunities for fun with the aircraft. We will give unbiased advise at every stage.”

Diamond Aircraft sales and marketing director Amila Spiegel continues: “The UK and Ireland market represents an important general aviation market in Europe and we are more than excited and happy to have found the right partner with Gemstone Aviation, who represents our values and goals. We are convinced that existing and future potential customers in this region will significantly benefit from the great experience and customer-oriented service provided by our new partner. Gemstone Aviation is soon to receive its DA62 demonstrator and will boost our sales performance in the UK and Ireland.”