Daher introduces latest TBM-series turboprop

The launch of the model that will succeed the TBM 930 that debuted in 2016 was made public March 7 at the TBM Owners and Pilots Association meeting in Pompano Beach, Florida. The new model will maintain the range and handling qualities of its predecessor while incorporating new systems and design elements.

Daher said it expects to receive European and U.S. certification in April at Aero Friedrichshafen 2019, the largest European airshow for general aviation. The approvals would allow deliveries of TBM 940s by late spring.

“The TBM 940 redefines the ultimate private aircraft: user-friendly, safe and efficient for both pilots and passengers,” said Nicolas Chabbert, senior vice president of the airplane business unit of Tarbes, France-based Daher. “This newest TBM family member underscores our firm commitment to constant improvement for the ownership and operational experience with our very fast turboprop aircraft.”

The TBM 940’s workload-reducing automated throttle is “the first ever installed on a standard production turboprop aircraft weighing less than 12,500 lbs.,” Daher said, noting that the automated throttle is fully integrated with the autopilot and automatically adjusts the aircraft’s speeds based on a preset flight profile from climbout to landing approach.

The automated feature “enables a TBM 940 to be operated to the edge of approved power regimes for its Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-66D turboprop engine, providing optimum performance and efficiency from the powerplant,” the announcement said.

In another first for a TBM-line airplane, automation has been increased for the 940’s deicing system. “When icing or ice accretion is detected—and if the pilot does not take action—the system is automatically activated for deicing of the airframe, windshield, propeller and the engine’s particle separator,” Daher said. The avionics also display an alert message.

Interior ergonomic changes include redesigned seats, additional thermal insulation for cabin sidewalls, a new central shelf with side storage, an additional 115-volt electrical outlet at the right rear seat panel, and USB ports that bring the total to six for passengers and three for the pilots.

More than 267 aircraft in the TBM 900 series have been delivered to date, Daher said.