Press Release

Issued by Daher Aerospace.

June 18, 2013

Daher-Socata today announced that the first TBM 850 Elite corporate operator – France's Abalone Group – has already logged 100 flight hours, reaching this milestone only one month after receiving the very fast turboprop aircraft. 
This rapid build-up in utilization underscores the TBM 850's effectiveness and flexibility for companies such as the Nantes-based Abalone Group, which uses its TBM 850 to transport members of the company's executive team.

"The TBM 850 has already helped us to optimize our travel and further develop the business,” explained Sacha Moutel, project manager within the Abalone Group. “Our teams appreciate having more productive time and reducing stress and fatigue."

Moutel noted that the use of a company aircraft provides access to more locations, including airports that are smaller or closer to the final destinations without the need for connecting flights, while also eliminating involved boarding procedures.

"An aircraft manufacturer is always pleased when its customers are satisfied,” said Nicolas Chabbert, senior vice-president of Daher-Socata's Airplane Division. “Seeing the Abalone Group's extensive use of its TBM 850 Elite for corporate travel is highly rewarding. This shows how the TBM 850 gives leading companies new mobility for their executives something that is highly valued in today's fast-paced business world."

The Abalone Group's aircraft is a Model Year 2013 TBM 850 Elite, which incorporates an enhanced cockpit and improved comfort package, while also offering unique capability in tailoring the passenger cabin in meeting operators' needs. Its middle seats can be oriented in a forward-facing position, while the rear seats are removable. In approximately 30 minutes, the TBM 850 can be reconfigured in a four-seat cabin, increasing the luggage volume capacity by three and doubling the maximum luggage weight.