Daher launches the TBM 960

French aircraft manufacturer Daher unveiled the latest model of its succesful TBM series on 5 April 2022. The prototype of the TBM 960, registered as F-HAHF, was introduced during the Sun 'n Fun Aerospace Expo held in Lakeland (FL), USA.

This new model marks number five in the line of the TBM-900 series which started back in 2014 with the TBM 900.

Prototype F-HAHF left the Daher factory at Tarbes-Lourdes Pyrenees, France on 31 March, to finally arrive at Lakeland-Linder International on 2 April 2022. The trip was made in eight consecutive legs.

The TBM 960 continues improvements implemented on the TBM 910/930 models with increased efficiency and enhanced performance. Powering the latest TBM version is the intelligent Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6E-66XT turboprop engine driving a Hartzell Propeller’s five-blade Raptor™ composite propeller.

Powerplant and propeller are both linked to the dual-channel digital Engine and Propeller Electronic Control System (EPECS). Thanks to this new engine and a fully digital e-throttle a 10% reduction in fuel consumption over previous models is achieved. With the EPECS, the PT6E-66XT’s startup is fully automated after a single-switch activation.

The TBM 960 has been certified by EASA (the European Union Aviation Safety Agency) while certification by the U.S. FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) is currently underway. Deliveries will begin in the first half of 2022. And in case you want to order one: a new TBM 960 will cost you only USD 4,5 to 4,7 Million, depending on the options!

Source: Daher