TBM 850 Aircraft Technical Description

The TBM 850 is a high-performance single-engine turboprop business aircraft developed by the French company DAHER-SOCATA (formerly SOCATA). This sophisticated aircraft represents an enhanced version of the TBM 700 model and stands out for its unique combination of jet-like speeds with the economy of a turboprop engine.

Powerplant and Performance Specifications

• Engine: Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-66D
• Power Output: 850 shp for takeoff (compared to 700 shp in the TBM 700)
• Propeller: Hartzell five-blade composite constant-speed
• Maximum Cruise Speed: 320 KTAS (592 km/h) at 26,000 feet
• Economy Cruise Speed: 252 KTAS (467 km/h)
• Stall Speed (with flaps extended): 65 KIAS (120 km/h)
• Maximum Range: 1,585 nautical miles (2,935 km) with reserves
• Service Ceiling: 31,000 feet (9,450 meters)
• Rate of Climb: 2,380 ft/min (725 m/min)
• Time to Climb to 31,000 feet: approximately 18-20 minutes

Takeoff and Landing Performance

• Takeoff Roll Distance: 2,840 feet (865 m)
• Landing Roll Distance: 2,430 feet (741 m)
• Takeoff Distance over 50-foot obstacle: 4,600 feet (1,400 m)
• Landing Distance over 50-foot obstacle: 3,707 feet (1,130 m)

Dimensions and Weight

• Length: 34.9 feet (10.65 m)
• Height: 14.3 feet (4.36 m)
• Wingspan: 41.6 feet (12.68 m)
• Wing Area: 193.8 sq ft (18.0 m²)
• Maximum Takeoff Weight: 7,394 lbs (3,354 kg)
• Maximum Landing Weight: 7,000 lbs (3,175 kg)
• Basic Empty Weight: approximately 4,623 lbs (2,097 kg)
• Maximum Useful Load: approximately 2,771 lbs (1,257 kg)
• Maximum Fuel Weight: 2,425 lbs (1,100 kg), 291 US gallons (1,360 liters)

Cabin and Configuration

• Cabin Configuration: typical 1+5 (pilot + 5 passengers)
• Cabin Length: 13.3 feet (4.05 m)
• Cabin Width: 4.0 feet (1.21 m)
• Cabin Height: 4.0 feet (1.22 m)
• Baggage Compartment Volume: 34.6 cubic feet (0.98 m³)
• Oxygen System: integrated with individual masks

Avionics

• Suite: Garmin G1000 NXi with dual 10.4-inch LCD displays
• Autopilot: Garmin GFC 700 with altitude pre-select
• Navigation Systems: dual GPS/WAAS receivers
• Radar Altimeter: integrated
• Weather Radar: color, with windshear detection capability
• Collision Avoidance System: TCAS I
• Ground Proximity Warning System: TAWS-B
• Electronic Charts: integrated into Garmin system

Operational Data

• Fuel Consumption at Cruise: approximately 50-55 US gallons/hour (190-210 liters/hour)
• Maintenance Interval: 200 hours or 12 months
• Engine Time Between Overhaul: 3,500 hours
• Ice Protection Certification: yes
• Maximum Endurance: approximately 5.5 hours
• Runway Requirements: minimum 2,790 feet (850 meters) of paved surface

Operational Limitations

• Maximum Operating Speed (VMO): 266 KIAS (493 km/h)
• Maximum Mach Number (MMO): 0.64
• Maximum Operating Altitude: 31,000 feet (9,450 m)
• Load Factors: +3.5g / -1.5g
• Maximum Operating Temperature: ISA +35°C
• Minimum Operating Temperature: -45°C

The TBM 850, manufactured from 2006 to 2014 before being superseded by the TBM 900, features improved aerodynamic characteristics compared to its predecessors. This, combined with its powerful engine, makes it one of the fastest single-engine turboprop aircraft in its class. Its ability to operate from relatively short runways (approximately 850 meters) makes it accessible for use at smaller regional airports, offering exceptional versatility for private owners and business operators.