Turbine Edition: Flight Plan

As you'll see on the following pages, unleashing the power of turbine engines can literally change lives. New engine, avionics, and manufacturing technologies are spawning an entirely new breed of turbine airplanes — ones priced at a point that makes them affordable to an entirely new class of users. Easier to fly and maintain than many cabin-class piston twins, today's turbines offer breathtaking performance.

Inside we profile four CEOs who fly their own turbine airplanes, leveraging this remarkable performance to grow their businesses in ways unimaginable without the benefits of general aviation travel. Access to turbine airplanes has allowed them to conduct business in places and at times not possible any other way — all while avoiding the headaches of airline travel.

This special edition of AOPA Pilot is designed to help you understand this new market. We include a brief description of all of the new single-pilot turbine airplanes with links to more extensive descriptions on AOPA Online.

One of the joys of flying such capable airplanes is the ability to go so many places — places you may have not thought possible previously. Transatlantic, anyone? Ride along as we take the mighty Socata TBM 850 from France to Canada and describe why you really should consider Iceland more than just a fuel stop.

The integrated avionics systems aboard these new airplanes dramatically simplify flying, but demand training respect. We outline what you're likely to find staring back at you on the flight deck.

Speaking of training — it's a whole new deal when you step up to turbine operations. Hodge-podge training it's not. Look forward to formalized and professional training in the most sophisticated simulators and flight training devices — and we tell you what to expect.

Let us know what you think of this special edition. We look forward to hearing how turbine operations have changed the face of your flying.

E-mail the editor in chief at [email protected].