Production has been stepped up on Socata’s TBM 700B along with continued updating of the single turboprop. The latest model has an upgraded avionics suite and an oxygen system along with a

new interior.

“The aircraft is always being upgraded, it’s just a question of what and when. The increased weight is coming out in October and as for demand, we’re selling all the aircraft we can get,” said Michael Pearce, Air Touring’s md for UK and Ireland distribution.

In the past the TBM700B has tended to appeal to the owner/operator (usually an owner/pilot), but Socata is now planning to move further into the corporate market. EBAN asked Pearce if he felt the aircraft had a future on the charter market. “I hope so, because we’re buying four ourselves for fractional leasing. We can’t yet charter because it’s a single engine and the single engine IFR approval still hasn’t come out. But that’s due to happen later this year, which should have quite a big impact,” he replied.

There will be around 42 produced next year and sales have been split between two-thirds in the US and a third in Europe.

“With a maximum range of around 1,500 nautical miles, cheap operational costs and its speed, the aircraft is ideal for getting around Europe,” said Pearce.