Since the C2 version of the TBM 700 seven-seat turboprop single
was launched at last year's NBAA, 27 of the type have been sold,
together with three of the lower-weight C1s optimized for the European
market. France's SOCATA therefore attends this Convention with 250
deliveries (as of October 1) and 312,000 hours of flight time to
its credit.
New CEO Stephane Mayer is here this week to present latest improvements
for 2004, which comprise twin GNS 530 displays and Honeywell IHAS
800 traffic/weather displays both now as standard, plus optional
Mode S (GTX 330D) and a forthcoming RVSM upgrade option in the shape
of twin Honeywell AM 250s. Avionics improvements are also in train
for the four-seat TB series of tourers and trainers also marketed
by SOCATA, but the launch of a version with SMA SR 305 diesel power
has been postponed indefinitely, confirms the company.
Major Boost in Prospect for Single-Turboprop
Manufacturers
Hard lobbying on the question of night/IFR operations of ICAO
and Europe's JAA on behalf of makers and operators by the Single-Engine
Turboprop Alliance (SETA) appears to have borne fruit. Such
operations are commonplace in the U.S., but have faced implacable
official opposition in some countries-notably Europe, and especially
the UK. However, SETA Principal Langhorne Bond announced Tuesday
that, three weeks ago, an ICAO committee recommended a 180°
turn on former policy and expressed confidence that the JAA
can be persuaded to issue a similar draft rule change by next
spring. The consequences for the GA industry will be profound,
says Bond, leading to "a two- or three-fold increase in
sales."
