Summary
- The TBM series utilizes an optimized propeller made of composite material that enhances engine performance.
- TBM aircraft are equipped with e-copilot systems for added safety and passenger comfort during flight.
- The TBM 960 features a HomeSafe autoland function for emergency situations, ensuring passenger safety.
The TBM family of turboprop aircraft, originally known as SOCATA TBM and now called Daher TBM, is a high-efficiency turboprop family that has been in production for over three decades. The latest versions of the series, TBM 700s and TBM 900s, are the manufacturer’s top-line aircraft featuring numerous performance and cabin upgrades. This article notes some advanced features incorporated into the TBM series aircraft.
1
An optimized propeller
Enhances engine performance
- Five-blade propeller
- Made of composite materials
- At 1,925 RPM during maximum power output
- Enhances takeoff distance
- Reduces noise and vibration
The engine propeller on turboprop designs, plays a vital role in achieving the desired efficiency of the engine and the aircraft. The Daher TBM series is equipped with a specialized composite propeller that is lightweight and precisely optimized to generate power for the desired light envelope.
Photo: BlueBarronPhoto | Shutterstock
The propeller minimizes vibrations while also suppressing noise generated from the incoming airflow. According to TBM Aero,
“The lightweight Raptor™ five-blade composite propeller from Hartzell is fully integrated into the propulsion system. It has been specifically designed to reduce overall weight and improve the TBM 960’s takeoff distance, climb and cruise speeds. Turning at 1,925 rpm during maximum power output, the Raptor contributes to limiting noise and vibration – making the TBM 960 a “smooth operator” wherever it flies.”
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2
TBM e-copilot systems
A variety of functions to assist pilots
- Angle of attack (AOA) indicator
- Enhanced Safety Protection (ESP)
- Under Speed Protection (USP)
- Emergency Descent Monitor (EDM) stick-shaker
- Automated icing detection and protection system
The TBM series of aircraft is equipped with e-copilot systems allowing a range of functionalities to assist pilots during various phases of flight. The Electronic Stability Protection and Underspeed Protection not only alerts pilots beyond a certain limit, but also takes corrective actions to stabilize the aircraft. The function also enhances passenger comfort during high-turbulence events.
Photo: InsectWorld | Shutterstock
The system also has airport environment awareness which allows a smooth transition from barometric navigation to glide slope path Surface Watch. During various phases of flight, including descent and approach, the vertical guidance and visual approach support can be enabled. The aircraft also features emergency descent mode, an added layer of safety.
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3
TBM 960’s HomeSafe
Emergency autoland function
- Automatically brings the airplane to a runway touchdown
- Activated with a push of a button
- Uses advanced flight deck features
- Accounts for weather, deviations, and airport environments
The manufacturer’s latest TBM 960 aircraft comes with a HomeSafe emergency autoland system, keeping pilots and passengers at ease during flight. Daher emphasizes that the innovative technology is significantly revolutionary from the passengers’ perspective when it comes to the safety of the aircraft.
In case of a pilot incapacitation event, the aircraft can be automatically landed with the use of the HomeSafe autoland function. According to TBM Aero,
“The TBM 960’s HomeSafe™ emergency autoland function automatically brings the airplane to a runway touchdown if the pilot is incapacitated. This game-changing technology extends Daher’s innovation to a feature that specifically addresses safety from the passengers’ point of view.”
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4
The all-digital weather radar
GWX 8000 advanced doppler radar
- Automatic threat analysis
- StormOptix analysis
- Automatic adjustment of sweep patterns
- Lightning and hail prediction
- Turbulence detection
- Zero-blind range
- Ground clutter suppression
The TBM 960 features a range of weather and surveillance systems using the GWN 8000 advanced Doppler radar technology. The all-digital weather radar uses the StormOptix analysis system to retrieve and analyze environmental data. Based on the results, the antenna sweep patterns are automatically adjusted to measure weather cells.
Small aircraft are more vulnerable to changing weather, particularly clear air turbulence (CAT) and storms. The TBM weather surveillance technology precisely alerts pilots of adverse weather and offers corrective actions. Moreover, zero blind range assistance for close-in returns and ground clutter suppression are added advantages of the system.
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5
The prestige cabin
Elevates comfort through a range of functions and amenities
- Touchscreen-activated environmental control system
- Ambiance lighting
- Electrically-dimmable windows
- Ergonomic seating
- Lateral folding tables with cupholders
The TBM series greatly elevates the passenger experience through its attention to detail in the cabin. From ergonomic seats and cabin ambiance to touchscreen environmental control systems and dimmable windows, Daher aircraft is making its mark through its prestige cabins.
Photo: Daher
Cabin amenities can be customized according to the needs, particularly with the prestige package that offers comfortable seating options for long-distance flights. According to TBM Aero,
“The Prestige cabin’s original seat design – developed with the help of an ergonomist – offers optimum comfort, even on long-distance flights. As a part of the Prestige package, top grain leather is applied on all seated surfaces and panels, combined with ultra-suede sides.”
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