The Tobago sits squarely in the middle of what many call Socata’s "Caribbean" line of piston singles, which also includes the fixed-gear, 160-horsepower Tampico and the retractable-gear, 250-horsepower Trinidad (with a turbocharger, the retract becomes the TB21 Trinidad TC). Originally a subsidiary of the French aerospace company Aérospatiale, now part of Airbus, Socata built the airplanes at its Tarbes, France, facility that inspired the TB model designations.
Powered by a 180-horsepower Lycoming O-360 A1AD engine with a 2,000-hour time between overhauls and turning a two-blade, constant-speed Hartzell propeller, the Tobago is of conventional metal construction. Its wide, comfortable cabin is accessed through gull-wing doors over each wing. The vertical stabilizer and rudder are distinctively positioned forward of the stabilator; two ventral strakes are mounted under the aft fuselage.
The TB200XL, introduced in 1993, replaces the engine with a 200-horsepower Lycoming IO-360-A1B6. Most TB-series aircraft were produced between 1977 and 2000, and have become known as “generation one.” In 2000 Socata launched Generation Two of the series, offering a larger cabin with more headroom and some aerodynamic improvements; the redesigned wing tips are most noticeable. Only a small number of GT models was produced. Although the Tobago has been out of production since 2005, Socata still provides product support.
Tobagos offer great visibility for a low-wing airplane. The wide windshield and overhead plexiglass in the gull-wing doors provide excellent visibility ahead and above. The front seats are located on top of the forward wing spar, giving the pilot a downward view much better than most other low-wing airplanes.
The wide cabin and high wing loading make for a comfortable, smooth ride. However, that wide cabin creates drag, keeps the airplane from flying as fast as it looks like it should go—and some owners report cruise speeds slightly slower than book. At 6,000 feet and 75-percent power, expect about 124 KTAS with wheel pants installed. Control forces are heavy, providing a solid feel, and the airplane flies conventionally—although a touch of power in the flare seems to soften the touchdown.
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For more information
Contact the Socata TB Users Group.
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