The newest variant of the EADS Socata TBM850 is making its German debut on the ILA static line.
The updated 2008 model of the TBM850 comes in weighing some 50kgs (110lb) less. The weight loss comes from the glass cockpit and use of composite materials.
Lighting the way up the front for the pilots is Garmin’s G1000 which reduces pilot workload and helps ease maintenance.
The system features two 26.4cm (10.4in) PFDs, one for pilot and co-pilot alike. As well as a single 38.1cm (15in) MFD in the centre.
“We are approaching in GA what is available in much larger and more expensive aircraft. Not only larger screens but more developed systems,” says Nicolas Chabbert, vice president Sales & Marketing.
It also features a new interior, which has been redesigned to offer more space. There is an extra 50mm (2in) width increase and a 20mm ceiling rise too.
“The cabin is executive style with increased space, and because of the weight savings you can load the aircraft with five people and take full fuel. We have also increased the fuel capacity by 15 gallons,” explains Chabbert.
And it features a dual zone temperature control Global Air Control System from Liebherr Aerospace.
The cabin differential stands at 6.2 psi and it is capable of maintaining a sea level cabin up to 14,500ft (4,420m), which is also the dump limit. At 31,000ft (9,448m) the cabin altitude is 9,350ft.
And what’s more, the TBM family has a strong footing in Germany, with 15 aircraft operating here. “Last Sunday the aircraft on display here stopped via Tempelhof for a TBM meet, with some 30 aircraft, before heading down to Schoenfeld,” he adds.
Chabbert asks, “Why do people choose the TBM850? Because it has jet like speed at 320kt cruise speed, can climb to 26,000ft in 15 minutes and has low operating costs. Less than €400 per hour.
“We have typically delivered between five and seven aircraft a year. But this year we will be delivering between 12 and 14,” he adds.
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Source: Flight Daily News
