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The TBM 960 is a single-engine turboprop-powered aircraft. Setting the 2024 model apart from the original release in 2022 is the addition of updates to aid in pilot awareness and a decreased workload. In addition, the newest version is coupled with a sleek paint scheme. This new scheme is noted as ‘Daher's Sirocco livery'. It boasts a silver base with teal blue and matt black highlights. At its release at SUN ‘n FUN 50th anniversary, people lined up to get a look inside the updated and eye-catching aircraft.
Some of the digital additions that make this one of the fastest-selling versions of all the TBM aircraft are the digital e-COPILOT operations and the HomeSafe Emergency Autoland System. The e-COPILOT aids significantly in single-pilot resource management and offers some benefits of a crewed operation. So far, there have been 120 TBM 960s delivered with many more signed up to be acquired. The cockpit is also adorned with the Garmin G3000 avionics. This is a touchscreen-controlled integrated flight deck. It is recognized in the industry for its ease of use, detailed graphical optics, and the ability for faster troubleshooting. It is also coupled with the GWX 8000 Doppler radar that detects threat analysis automatically. In addition, the onboard weather service utilizes Storm Optix which automatically adjusts antenna sweep patterns to locate and identify storm cells.
With a max range of 1,730 nautical miles and a max cruising speed of 330 knots, the TBM 960 is a fast and efficient aircraft, desired by those in the aviation industry. The aircraft has 6 seats and can carry a max payload of 1,446 pounds. The Pratt andamp; Whitney Canada's PT6E-66XT advanced powerplant and the five-blade propeller are testaments to the power this aircraft can produce. The propeller rotates at 1,925 rpm at maximum power output and the lightweight composition of the propeller was specifically designed to reduce the overall weight of the aircraft. This significantly improved the takeoff distance, climb, and cruise speeds associated with the aircraft. The reduced weight of the propeller overall reduces the noise and vibrations produced by propulsion. Both the powerplant and propeller are entirely digital, working with the Engine and Propeller Electronic Control System (EPECS). This system aids in easier startup and allows for much easier and more accessible engine power management.
The HomeSafe Emergency Autoland System automatically brings the airplane to runway safety if it notes pilot incapacity. This is an extremely desirable feature of single-pilot flying operations for both the pilot and the passengers. From a passenger perspective, this aircraft is equipped with many features that make the flying experience even more comfortable, including electrically dimmable windows, ergonomic seats and ambient lighting.
Daher began as a shipping company in 1863 and has been involved in aircraft manufacturing since 1911. The first aircraft they produced was the Morane-Saulnier. The newest version release of the TBM 960 marks Daher as the world's oldest aircraft manufacturer still in operation. Through and through Daher has proven reliability and dedication to their customers, evident by the aircraft produced and the commitment they display.