Air Touring has introduced a Socata TBM700 to its fleet of demonstrators. The UK and Ireland distributor for French manufacturer Aerospatiale Matra Socata says that affluent private pilots have since been visiting its Biggin Hill base with the intention of treating themselves to a TBM700. The aircraft, says the distributor, is capable of reaching main destinations in Europe from airfields in Britain in four hours.

Said an Air Touring spokesman: "Part of the appeal to the self-flying businessman is that the single engine turboprop high performance aircraft was originally designed to meet French military specifications and is therefore tried, tested and used in environments worlds apart from that of the private owners who are lining up to spend up to £1.5 million on the sleek, low maintenance machine."

In addition to its use by private pilots. for which the TBM700 sports a luxury business jet interior, the aircraft has a military role that includes flight training, target towing, and freight and medical evacuation missions in and out of short airfields.

Managing director of Air Touring Mike Pearce says that the TBM700 attracts interest from owners of the American-built Piper Malibu but considers the Piper to be a 'large small aircraft'. He said: "Certainly in terms of performance, the TBM700 can leave the Malibu behind and below.

"The TBM700 can fly six passengers in comfort up with the airliners at 30,000 feet due to a fully pressurised cabin and still cruise at 300 knots with a full baggage load.

Air Touring is Europe's top Socata distributor this year, with more than 20 new aircraft ordered so far from the factory near Lourdes. There are three TBM700s in the UK and a further three new aircraft ordered for delivery in the first half of 2001.

"Our latest demonstrator appeals to those who would like the performance of an executive jet but do not want the staggering initial cost, and then maintenance bills and running costs that follow," said Pearce. "The TBM700 is a machine to enhance the lifestyle of its owner and family or business contacts but at a much lower operating cost than an executive jet equivalent.

"One thing that appeals to businessmen is that over the past two years, depreciation on the TBM700s sold has actually been negative. Pre-owned 1991 TBMs have been selling for more than their original purchase price due to demands exceeding supply."

Air Touring says that flight training for up to two pilots, specific to the TBM700, is provided as part of the package. One of Air Touring's directors is a senior training captain for the Hong Kong airline Cathay Pacific who, says Air Touring, ensures that owners get the most out of their investment.