TBM 850 

Introduction

The Daher TBM 850 is a high-performance, single-engine turboprop aircraft that bridges the gap between light jets and utility aircraft. Known for its speed, fuel efficiency, and compact luxury, the TBM 850 is an evolution of the original TBM 700, offering increased horsepower and better climb performance. It's a favorite among private pilots, executives, and charter travelers who value speed and flexibility with lower operating costs.

Specification of Daher TBM 850

• Manufacturer: Daher (formerly Socata)

• Model: TBM 850

• Crew: 1 pilot (single-pilot certified)

• Passenger Capacity: 4–6 passengers

• Engine: 1 × Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-66D

• Length: 35 ft 2 in (10.72 m)

• Wingspan: 42 ft 1 in (12.83 m)

• Height: 14 ft 4 in (4.37 m)

• Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW): 7,394 lbs (3,354 kg)

• Baggage Capacity: ~30 cu ft (internal + aft cabin storage)

Performance and Range of Daher TBM 850

The TBM 850 offers jet-like cruise speeds with turboprop flexibility, perfect for point-to-point trips:

• Max Cruise Speed: 320 knots (593 km/h) at FL260

• Range: Up to 1,585 nautical miles (2,935 km) with reserves

• Service Ceiling: 31,000 ft

• Takeoff Distance (MTOW): ~2,840 ft (866 m)

• Landing Distance: ~2,430 ft (741 m)

Excellent for nonstop trips such as Dallas to New York, Mumbai to Dubai, or Paris to Athens.

Cabin Comfort and Interior of Daher TBM 850

The TBM 850 offers a quiet, pressurized, and climate-controlled cabin:

• Cabin Height: 4 ft (1.22 m)

• Cabin Width: 3 ft 11 in (1.19 m)

• Cabin Length: 13 ft 3 in (4.04 m)

• Cabin Layout:
  4 club seats + optional side-facing fifth seat or belted lav
  Executive fold-out tables

• Interior Features:
  Leather seating
  Air conditioning
  Large windows for natural light
  Optional in-flight entertainment and satellite phone (in upgraded models)

Though compact, the TBM 850 offers a quiet and comfortable ride ideal for short-to-midrange flights.

Avionics and Technology of Daher TBM 850

Equipped with a glass cockpit and modern flight systems for single-pilot operations:

• Avionics Suite: Garmin G1000 (in later models)

• Key Features:
  Synthetic Vision Technology (SVT)
  Terrain and Traffic Awareness (TAWS-B, TCAS)
  WAAS-enabled GPS
  Autopilot with coupled approaches
  Weather radar and ADS-B Out
  Optional SATCOM or Wi-Fi connectivity

The cockpit is designed for efficiency, safety, and long-range IFR operations.

Operational Advantages of Daher TBM 850

• Speed of a Jet, Cost of a Turboprop: High cruise speeds with lower hourly fuel burn

• Access to Short Runways: Operates easily from small regional airports

• Single-Pilot Certified: Ideal for private and charter missions with one pilot

• Low Operating Costs: One of the most cost-effective ways to fly privately

• Reliable Powerplant: The PT6A-66D is known for durability and low maintenance

An ideal choice for business travelers or light charter operations.

Who Should Charter Daher TBM 850

The TBM 850 is an excellent choice for:

• Business Executives: Fast, efficient travel between regional cities

• Private Travelers and Families: Quiet, pressurized cabin for short getaways

• Time-Sensitive Missions: High speed and flexibility without the cost of jets

• Pilots or Owners Seeking Charter Revenue: A good option for a personal or managed fleet

• Luxury Tour Operators: For private VIP transfers to remote destinations

Ideal for 2–5 passengers traveling up to 3 hours nonstop in comfort.

Charter Cost Estimates for Daher TBM 850

The TBM 850 is one of the most economical pressurized aircraft available for charter:

• Hourly Charter Rate: $1,800 – $2,500 USD

• Typical 2-Hour Flight: $3,600 – $5,000 USD

• Estimated Cost per Passenger (Full Load): $600 – $900 USD

A perfect entry-level charter for those seeking performance and affordability.

Conclusion

The TBM 850 is a compact powerhouse in private aviation, offering impressive speed, a quiet cabin, and lower operating costs than most light jets. Whether you're a business traveler hopping between cities or a weekend explorer heading to a mountain lodge, the TBM 850 delivers jet-like performance without the jet price tag. It’s fast, reliable, and one of the smartest ways to fly private.