A high-performance, pressurized single-engine turboprop combining 330-knot cruise capability, digitally controlled turbine power, and advanced cockpit automation for personal and business transportation.
Aircraft Photo by Radim Koblzka
The TBM 960 represents the most comprehensive modernization of the TBM 900-series platform since its introduction. Building on the automation introduced with the TBM 940, Daher incorporated a new PT6E-66XT engine with full-authority digital engine control, a five-blade composite propeller, and an updated integrated flight deck. These changes refined the aircraft’s operating characteristics while preserving the speed and range that established the TBM as a leading high-performance personal turboprop.
The 960 occupies a specialized position among owner-flown turbine aircraft. The Epic E1000 offers comparable high-speed performance through a different airframe and systems philosophy, while the Pilatus PC-12 provides substantially greater cabin volume and utility at lower cruise speeds. The TBM emphasizes efficient transportation for smaller passenger groups, combining jet-like cruise speeds with the operational flexibility of a single-engine turboprop.
Introduced in April 2022, the Daher TBM 960 succeeded the TBM 940 as the flagship of the TBM family. The aircraft retained the established TBM 900-series airframe while introducing a Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6E-66XT engine, Hartzell Raptor five-blade composite propeller, and Daher’s updated e-copilot architecture.
The new engine incorporates a dual-channel electronic engine and propeller control system, allowing coordinated management of power and propeller operation. A single power lever replaces the separate engine and propeller controls found on earlier TBM models. The Garmin G3000 avionics suite integrates autothrottle, emergency autoland, electronic stability protection, and automated icing protection.
Together, these systems are a substantial evolution in how the aircraft manages propulsion, flight conditions, and pilot workload.
330 kts
1,730 nm
7,615 lbs
Source: Daher Aircraft
The TBM 960 is particularly well suited to experienced owner-pilots and professionally operated flight departments requiring fast regional and cross-country transportation. Its pressurized cabin, high-altitude capability, and advanced automation make it practical for frequent business travel and longer personal missions.
The electronically controlled PT6E engine introduces a different maintenance and operating environment from earlier mechanically controlled PT6 installations. Engine monitoring, manufacturer service programs, avionics updates, and specialized technical expertise are important considerations. The aircraft’s relatively recent introduction also places much of the fleet within a modern equipment and maintenance framework.
The original TBM 960 introduced the PT6E-66XT engine, electronically controlled propulsion system, and five-blade Hartzell Raptor composite propeller. The aircraft retained the Garmin G3000 flight deck while integrating engine management more closely with the existing autothrottle and e-copilot functions. Cabin refinements included redesigned environmental controls, updated interior materials, and improved passenger amenities. This configuration established the current TBM platform around integrated propulsion management and advanced automation.
Introduced in 2025, the updated TBM 960 incorporates Garmin G3000 PRIME avionics with larger touchscreen displays, revised cockpit interfaces, and expanded system integration. The redesigned flight deck changes how pilots interact with navigation, aircraft systems, and flight-management functions while retaining the PT6E-powered airframe and established performance characteristics. The update represents a substantial avionics evolution within the 960 family, particularly for operators transitioning from earlier Garmin-equipped TBM models.
The TBM 960 is designed for fast transportation across regional and longer-distance routes, with a maximum published cruise speed of 330 knots and a service ceiling of 31,000 feet. Its 1,730-nautical-mile published maximum range provides considerable reach when operated at appropriate long-range cruise settings, although higher cruise speeds reduce endurance.
The aircraft’s relatively compact cabin and useful-load limitations require attention to passenger count, baggage, and fuel requirements. Its combination of turbine power, pressurization, and advanced automation makes it particularly effective on missions where speed and single-pilot operation take priority over cabin volume.
Garmin G3000 integrated avionics incorporate touchscreen controls, autothrottle, emergency autoland, electronic stability protection, and automated flight-management functions. Later aircraft introduce the G3000 PRIME interface.
The Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6E-66XT produces 850 shaft horsepower and incorporates electronic engine and propeller control. A five-blade Hartzell Raptor composite propeller provides improved operating refinement and reduced cabin noise.
The modern production fleet emphasizes manufacturer-approved equipment updates, connectivity improvements, cabin options, and avionics enhancements rather than extensive aftermarket modifications.
A pressurized six-seat cabin provides executive-style seating, refined environmental controls, passenger connectivity, and updated interior materials within the established TBM fuselage.
Electronic engine management, integrated diagnostics, and manufacturer maintenance programs provide a modern framework for monitoring engine condition and aircraft systems. Specialized technical expertise remains important for maintaining mission readiness.
High-speed personal and business transportation, regional and cross-country travel, and single-pilot turbine operations requiring advanced automation and high-altitude performance.
The TBM 960 represents a significant development in the relationship between propulsion and flight-deck automation. Earlier TBM models established the aircraft’s performance capabilities, while the 940 introduced increasingly sophisticated pilot-assistance systems. The 960 extends that approach into the engine itself, integrating electronic power management with the aircraft’s existing automation architecture. Its performance remains in keeping with the preceding generation, but the operating experience reveals a more integrated aircraft. The result is a mature high-performance turboprop platform that places increasing emphasis on managing workload, improving consistency, and refining the demands of single-pilot transportation.
Aircraft commonly cross-shopped for similar missions or ownership priorities.
KTYR
Tyler Pounds Airport
309 Airport Drive
Tyler, Texas 75704
(903) 705-4523
Mailing Address
PO Box 663
Bullard, TX 75757
Based in Texas. Serving aircraft owners nationwide.
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