Story ID: 
Socata Updates the TBM 700 T-prop Single
By: Mark Phelps
Caption: At this year’s Experimental Aircraft Association AirVenture show in Oshkosh, Wis., Socata introduced the TBM 700C2, a follow-on to the successful TBM 700B 
Word Count: 268
At this year’s Experimental Aircraft Association AirVenture show in Oshkosh, Wis., Socata introduced the TBM 700C2, a follow-on to the successful TBM 700B turboprop single. The big change is an mtow increase of 815 lb, to 7,394 lb from 6,579 lb, giving operators improved payload/range performance. CEO Philippe Debrun called the new variant “a business-like version” of its current TBM 700. The first two new airplanes will be delivered in the U.S. early next year will have a new paint scheme from the computer screen of Scheme Designers of Cresskill, N.J. (see illustration). The TBM 700C2 retains the same basic airframe and Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-64 turboprop as the current B model, but will have strengthened airframe sections and heavier-ply tires at an increase in cost of $150,000, to $2.64 million (base price). With a few options, including $50,000 for the popular pilot door, C2s are typically running about $2.66 million, according to North American sales director Art Maurice. The good news is that on-board oxygen and air conditioning, which were each $25,000 options on the TBM 700B, are standard on the C2. Other new standard features include a new luggage compartment, a new interior with seats dynamically tested to more than 20 g, Honeywell ECS/VCS environmental control and air-conditioning systems and an additional luggage compartment behind the pressurized cabin. The C2 prototype is currently under active testing, and Debrun said that FAA certification–expected this fall–“should present no problem.” Deliveries of the first TBM 700C2 are aimed for the end of the year. Debrun said that Socata also is working to increase the ceiling from 31,000 ft to 33,000 ft.