Book a Socata TBM 700
Socata TBM 700
Light jet
The TBM 700 is the original high-performance single-engine turboprop that redefined personal and business aviation. Combining impressive cruise speeds with exceptional range and short-field capability, it delivers jet-like performance with turboprop efficiency. Its pressurized cabin, robust PT6A engine, and versatile design make it ideal for business travel, private ownership, or connecting remote destinations.
The Aircraft That Started It All
Overview
Launched in 1990 by the French manufacturer Socata (now Daher), in collaboration with Mooney Aircraft, the TBM 700 was the first production model of the TBM family and a genuine game-changer in general aviation.
The name “TBM” comes from “Tarbes-Mooney”, reflecting the partnership between Socata (based in Tarbes, France) and Mooney (Texas, USA). The TBM 700 was conceived to combine the speed and altitude performance of a light jet with the efficiency, simplicity, and short-field capability of a turboprop.
Powered by a Pratt & Whitney PT6A-64 engine producing 700 shp, the TBM 700 offered a maximum cruise speed of around 300 KTAS and a range exceeding 1,500 NM, making it one of the fastest single-engine turboprops of its time.
Its pressurized cabin, robust construction, and single-pilot certification opened new possibilities for private owners, corporate travelers, and regional operators, establishing the TBM line’s reputation for performance, reliability, and versatility that continues to this day.
Comfort and Functionality in a Compact Design
Luxury interior
The TBM 700 introduced a new standard of comfort in the single-engine turboprop category. Its pressurized, climate-controlled cabin, ergonomic seating, and practical layout made it ideal for both business and private missions. Combining comfort, simplicity, and functionality, it provided an environment that felt refined yet purpose-driven.
Pressurized Comfort for Every Flight
A fully pressurized cabin allows passengers to cruise at up to 30,000 ft in comfort, protected from turbulence and noise. This innovation brought jet-level altitude performance to a compact, efficient turboprop.
Executive Seating for Up to Six Passengers
The cabin features ergonomic, leather-appointed seats with excellent legroom and visibility. Configured for up to six passengers, it offers a business-class experience suited for corporate travelers or private owners alike.
Practical Layout with Easy Access Storage
Designed for efficiency, the TBM 700’s cabin includes ample baggage capacity and clever storage solutions. The rear access door and modular layout make loading luggage or equipment effortless for both personal and professional missions.
Key Specifications & Performance
Technical Characteristics
The Socata TBM 700 set a new benchmark for performance in single-engine turboprops, offering jet-like speed with the efficiency and accessibility of a turboprop. Powered by the proven Pratt & Whitney PT6A engine, it delivers outstanding climb rates, high cruise speeds, and impressive range. Designed for versatility, the TBM 700 can operate confidently from short runways and regional airports, connecting passengers directly to destinations beyond the reach of most light jets.
Performance
Maximum Cruise Speed
≈ 300 KTAS (556 km/h), delivering jet-like performance in a single-engine turboprop platform.
Maximum Range
≈ 1,585 NM (2,935 km), enabling nonstop travel between major business hubs or remote destinations with exceptional efficiency.
Service Ceiling
≈ 31,000 ft (9,450 m), offering smooth, weather-free operations above most air traffic and turbulence.
Takeoff Distance
≈ 2,100 ft (640 m), short-field capability ideal for small regional airports and private airstrips.
Landing Distance
≈ 2,430 ft (741 m), ensuring confident landings even on shorter or less equipped runways.
Rate of Climb
≈ 2,000 ft/min, excellent climb performance, allowing quick transitions to cruise altitude.
Capacity
Passengers
Typically 4–6 passengers, depending on configuration (executive, utility, or air taxi).
Crew
Certified for single-pilot operation, simplifying operations while maintaining safety.
Cabin Volume
≈ 123 cu ft (3.5 m³), spacious for its class, combining comfort with compact efficiency.
Cabin Dimensions
Length: 13.3 ft (4.05 m)
Width: 3.9 ft (1.19 m)
Height: 4.0 ft (1.22 m)
Fuel & Engines
Fuel Capacity
≈ 1,100 liters (291 US gallons), providing long-range endurance and fuel efficiency for both business and private missions.
Engines
1 × Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-64, renowned for reliability, low maintenance costs, and smooth performance.
Flat-rated for optimal power across various altitudes and temperatures.
Thrust (each)
700 shaft horsepower (shp), delivering strong climb and cruise performance while maintaining excellent fuel economy.
Cargo & Access
Cargo Door Size
Rear cabin access door designed for passenger and light cargo use.
Allows flexible loading and configuration for luggage or mission equipment.
Baggage Compartment
Internal baggage area with capacity for up to six passengers’ luggage.
Smartly designed to balance weight distribution and easy access.
Ideal for business, leisure, or light freight missions.
Performance That Redefined a Category
Key feature
When it first took flight, the Socata TBM 700 introduced a new performance benchmark for turboprops. By blending jet-like speed, remarkable fuel efficiency, and short-field versatility, it proved that a single-engine aircraft could deliver both executive-class comfort and serious operational flexibility. The result was not just an aircraft but the creation of an entirely new aviation category.
Jet-Like Speed
Performance & Technical Excellence
The TBM 700 was a technological breakthrough, achieving cruise speeds approaching 300 KTAS performance once exclusive to small jets. Powered by the Pratt & Whitney PT6A-64 engine delivering 700 shp, it combined rapid climb rates, impressive range, and exceptional fuel economy. With the ability to travel over 1,500 nautical miles nonstop, operators could connect major cities or reach remote regions with unmatched efficiency. This perfect balance of power and economy made the TBM 700 the benchmark for owner-pilots and operators seeking jet-class performance, transforming how people flew privately.
Short-Field Capability with Pressurized Comfort
Safety & Operational Advantage
Beyond its speed, the TBM 700 redefined accessibility. With takeoff and landing distances under 2,500 ft, it could operate from small regional airports and short private runways, allowing passengers to fly directly to their destination instead of relying on congested hubs. Inside, a fully pressurized and climate-controlled cabin offered a smooth, quiet experience up to 31,000 ft, above weather and turbulence. This rare combination of rugged runway capability and high-altitude luxury gave operators the freedom to fly practically anywhere from grass airstrips to executive terminals without compromise in comfort, performance, or safety.
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