DAHER-SOCATA today announced that 36 TBM 850s were delivered in 2009, bringing to 184 the total number of the very fast turboprop aircraft provided to customers since its introduction less than four years ago.

This marks a significant addition to the 323 TBM 700s built from the program's beginning in 1990 – putting the overall TBM fleet number at 507.

As in past years, most 2009 TBM 850 models were purchased by customers from the USA (77%), Europe (14%) and Latin America (6%). Additionally, DAHER-SOCATA registered its first deliveries of TBM 850s in Australia and Chile equipped with the Garmin G1000 "glass cockpit" avionics suite.

"In today's challenging times for the business aviation and owner-pilot sectors, we have to thank the loyalty and confidence of our customers, who took delivery of 36 brand new TBM 850, and the commitment and support excellence of DAHER-SOCATA and its network of distributors." Stated Nicolas Chabbert, senior vice-president of DAHER-SOCATA Airplane Division.

Chabbert added that a good indicator of the continued market demand for TBM-series aircraft is the fact that less than 10 percent of the entire TBM 700/850-fleet was available on the pre-owned market at the end of 2009, below the expected average of 13%. "This underscores the TBM's role as a true asset," he added. "The aircraft's quality-to-price ratio, its very low operating costs and a comprehensive network of service centers around the world do the rest." he concluded.

DAHER-SOCATA's TBM 850 is the world's fastest single turboprop aircraft, with a maximum cruising speed of 320 KTAS at Flight Level 260 (in ISA conditions). It combines cruising speed and trip times of a light jet with the economic direct operating costs, range and moderate environmental signature of a turboprop engine. The maximum range and useful load – which are enhanced on the current model – and the ability to land at small airports are some of its customers' favorite features.