Socata has added a series of enhancements to its TBM 850 for the 2008 model, the company said this week at Sun ‘n Fun. Upgrades include an integrated all-glass three-display flight deck based on the Garmin G1000 system, a digitally controlled cabin temperature system with two-zone control, and a new “European-style” cabin design by Catherineau. The seat cushions and backrests have been re-designed to maximize comfort. An extra inch of cabin height, plus the new seats, make it easier for the pilot to access the cockpit. The company also redesigned the logo and the paint scheme for the airplane. “Sun ‘n Fun traditionally heralds the start-up of a year’s aviation gatherings, and it is the best venue to introduce our new 2008 TBM 850 to the general public,” said Nicolas Chabbert, the president of EADS Socata North America.
The new version of the 850 sells for about $3 million. The company said it delivered 46 of the airplanes last year and has 60 on order.
