Tractable Tbm

Evolution improves the breed

As the TBM 900 taxis regally across the tarmac at Sebring airport in Florida, it looks every inch a thoroughbred, and also distinctly European. From the tip of the spinner to the top of the fin it is a very elegant design, and I already knew it should fly as good as it looked as I’d greatly enjoyed flying my first TBM (a 700C2) 12 years ago, and then an 850 five years later. Consequently I was very much looking forward to renewing my acquaintance with this powerful French turboprop.

TBMs are very interesting machines as – despite the pressurised cabin, turboprop engine and stunning performance – one of their biggest selling points is that they are certificated for single-pilot operation and are very much aimed at the owner-pilot. For example, the 900 stalls at around 65kt, and multiplying that value by 1. 3 confirms that the Vref is about 85 – which is only 15kt quicker than the approach speed for a fully-loaded Cessna 182.