Viddler

The G1000 And PW's Finest Make This An Exceptional Way To Travel

It would be hard to improve on a such an impressive performer as the TBM 850 single-engine turboprop... but that said, if there was one area the previous generation aircraft came up lacking, it was in cockpit integration. That concern has been nicely addressed by EADS Socata for 2008, with a simple one-word explanation: Garmin.

After working our way on a warm day at 308-310 kts at FL260, with th best of Garmin keeping things VERY manageable, we have to tell you that the TBM 850 has it RIGHT.

Upgrades to the latest TBM 850 variant includes its Integrated All-Glass Flight Deck, based on the last-generation Garmin G1000 system -- which replaces traditional instruments with large liquid crystal display (LCD) screens. It integrates primary flight, navigation, weather, traffic, ground proximity and technical information on the aircraft, fully associated with a digital autopilot. This reduces pilot workload and eases maintenance, and brings the TBM 850 truly into the realm of the world?s most advanced light business aircraft.

In addition, the TBM 850?s environmental and vapor control system has been replaced by the Global Air Control System, which is more efficient and offers a dual zone temperature control.

EADS Socata also made some oft-requested improvements to the TBM 850's cabin. The aircraft?s interior has been entirely redesigned to offer more space and comfort, with a two-inch width increase and a one-inch ceiling rise. The changes also serve to reduce airframe weight, increasing the TBM 850?s useful load by 110 lbs.

Fuel tank capacity is boosted by 11 gallons, benefiting from a transfer in the fuel cap position. Maximum range increases from 1,330 nm to 1,410 nm at the maximum recommended cruise of 320 knots.

Developed in response to customer feedback, the TBM 850?s 2008 model has already achieved success in the market. Introduced to EADS Socata?s