Daher celebrates the 80th TBM 960 delivery, the fifth iteration of their high-performance single-engine turboprop, at EAA AirVenture 2023. Their most recent TBM 900 series has surpassed the previous two generations in deliveries, with 488 TBM 900 series aircraft delivered. The prior TBM 850 and TBM 700 series generated 338 and 324 deliveries, respectively. With 1,155 TBM turboprops delivered over 12 different models, the popularity and success of the program is evident.
“Owners and operators praise the TBM 960’s outstanding flight experience and increased cabin comfort, as well as the enhanced efficiency and sustainability,” explained Nicolas Chabbert, the Senior Vice President of Daher’s Aircraft Division. “It takes the maximum advantage of today’s technology to provide digital control for the engine and the propeller, extending into the digitally-controlled cabin.”
For 2023, the Garmin G3000® integrated flight deck is further enhanced with updated software. Daher’s continued focus on ergonomics for operational safety and situational awareness includes a control yoke activation button for the Garmin Electronic Checklists and a repositioning of the altimeter setting button.
The Pratt & Whitney Canada’s PT6E-66XT turboprop engine and Hartzell Propeller’s five-blade composite propeller with the Raptor™ lightweight hub are linked to the TBM 960s dual channel digital Engine and Propeller Electronic Control System. EPECS fully automates the PT6E-66XT engine’s startup after a single-switch activation. The cockpit’s power lever becomes an e-throttle, using a single forward position from takeoff to landing – with the EPECS optimizing powerplant performance throughout the flight envelope while reducing pilot workload by integrating all functions and protecting the engine’s life.
The Hartzell propeller is fully integrated into the aircraft’s propulsion system. It reduces overall weight and improves the TBM 960’s takeoff distance, climb, and cruise speed. Turning at 1,925 rpm during maximum power output, the propeller limits noise and vibration. Its sound level during takeoff is just 76.4 decibels, meeting the most stringent international noise standards.
At Daher’s recommended cruise setting of 308 kts., fuel consumption is only 57 U.S. gallons per hour – a 10 percent fuel economy reduction compared to the maximum cruise setting for more sustainable operations.
Key features of the TBM 960 include the G3000 integrated flight deck enables the TBM’s e-copilot® functions: icing protection system; flight envelope monitoring through the Electronic Stability and Protection (ESP) and the Under-speed Protection (USP) systems; the Emergency Descent Mode (EDM) function; as well as the game-changing HomeSafe™ emergency autoland system.
The Bottom Line
The single-engine turboprop market provides exceptional value and flexibility, reflected in the success of the TBM family. With continuous improvement, we expect strong sales to continue for this fast and efficient aircraft.
