Socata has signed a deal with French airline Air Open Sky under which the carrier will lease a freighter version of the TBM700 turbine single for trials leading to an order for up to five aircraft. A similar deal is being negotiated with Swedish cargo carrier Air West Sweden.
The agreement, signed at the show, launches the freight version of the TBM700, which is equipped with a large door and internal hooks for securing cargo. "It is the first time we have formed a partnership to launch a new aircraft," says Socata European sales director Michel Adam-de-Villiers. "The aim is to certify the freight version by the end of the year."
Air Open Sky commercial director Samuel Bucciaccio says the aircraft will be used for "transporting industrial spares-we're also negotiating with La Poste to carry night cargo".
Sales of the TBM700 stand at 165, with 147 delivered. Adam-de-Villiers says orders for the type are "building". Production will rise from 20 aircraft a year to 27 in 2000.
The Aerospatiale Matra-owned general aviation company will also be demonstrating the new TB20 four-seat light single, powered by a 150kW (200hp) Morane Renault diesel engine, for the first time.
"We have 40 reservations," says Adam-de-Villiers. Delivery of the first diesel-powered Morane is planned for 2001, he adds.
Source: Flight International
