FLYING’s First Look: Daher TBM 960

Subtle changes now should reap large benefits for this turboprop’s pilots over the long term.

Monday, April 11, 2022 at 01:41 PM ET

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Editor-in-chief Julie Boatman took a satisfying first flight in the Daher TBM 960, the latest in the TBM lineage. [Photo: Julie Boatman]

Key Takeaways:

The Daher TBM 960, an upgrade from the 940, primarily features an automated engine start and integrated capabilities for an enhanced pilot experience.
It is powered by a new Pratt & Whitney PT6E-66XT engine, boasting autostart, digital data capture, and an extended 5,000-hour Time Between Overhaul (TBO).
The author's flight test confirmed its smooth performance, easy handling during takeoff and climb, and overall harmonious feel in the air.
Several TBM 960 units are ready for delivery, pending imminent FAA acceptance of its EASA approval.

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The most obvious change lies in the automated engine start—and we sequenced through that procedure first.

After that, the differences between the 960 and its predecessor, the 940, are subtle ones, integrations of various elements and capabilities that the series collected. They now come together in a package that should prove its worth to pilots and owners.