Oshkosh, WI – July 22, 2026 – The highly anticipated TBM 980, the latest evolution of Daher’s renowned single-engine turboprop family, has experienced an explosive market reception, surpassing all previous delivery benchmarks and projecting a production ramp-up to record levels well into mid-2027. Since its official unveiling and the commencement of deliveries in January of this year, Daher Aircraft has successfully handed over more than 30 TBM 980 units, a testament to the aircraft’s advanced capabilities and the enduring appeal of the TBM legacy.
This remarkable surge in demand has positioned the TBM 980 to potentially set a new record for the highest number of deliveries within a single year for the TBM program. Daher Aircraft CEO Nicolas Chabbert revealed at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh that the company is confidently targeting the delivery of over 60 TBM 980 aircraft throughout 2026. This ambitious goal, if achieved, would solidify 2026 as the most successful year in the TBM program’s illustrious history.
The TBM 980, which made its debut at Daher’s Tarbes, France production facility on January 15, 2026, has quickly captivated the aviation community. Initial delivery figures were strong, with 13 aircraft delivered by the end of April. The subsequent doubling of this number by mid-year underscores the accelerating pace of production and customer acquisition. A significant portion of this success can be attributed to the loyalty of existing TBM owners, with Daher reporting that more than half of the TBM 980 customers taking delivery this year are returning clients who previously owned another TBM model.
"The exceptional response to the TBM 980, including the confidence shown by existing TBM owners, demonstrates how our strategy continues to resonate with customers around the world," stated Chabbert. "This level of repeat business is a powerful validation of our commitment to continuous innovation and delivering an unparalleled ownership experience. It speaks volumes about the trust our customers place in the TBM platform and our dedication to their satisfaction."
A Legacy of Innovation: The TBM 980’s Evolution
The TBM 980 represents the latest iteration of Daher’s highly regarded pressurized, six-seat TBM family, a line of aircraft that has consistently pushed the boundaries of performance and efficiency in the single-engine turboprop segment. Positioned at the pinnacle of Daher’s current product lineup, the TBM 980 succeeds the TBM 960, building upon its robust foundation while introducing significant advancements, particularly in its avionics suite.
At the heart of the TBM 980’s performance remains the proven and powerful Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6E-66XT engine, renowned for its reliability and efficiency. This powerhouse is paired with a five-blade Hartzell composite propeller and a full-authority digital engine control (FADEC) system, ensuring optimal power management and fuel efficiency across a wide range of operating conditions. These core components have been instrumental in the TBM’s reputation for speed, range, and operational flexibility, and their continued presence in the TBM 980 ensures that the aircraft inherits these defining characteristics.
The most transformative upgrade in the TBM 980 lies within its cockpit. Daher has integrated Garmin’s state-of-the-art G3000 Prime flight deck, a sophisticated avionics system that replaces the previous generation’s configuration with three expansive 14-inch, edge-to-edge touchscreen displays. This revolutionary interface offers pilots an intuitive and highly customizable flying experience. The large, vibrant displays provide unparalleled situational awareness and allow for personalized screen layouts and pre-set configurations, significantly reducing pilot workload by streamlining the management of aircraft systems and flight functions. This advanced avionics suite not only enhances operational efficiency but also contributes to a heightened level of safety by presenting critical information in a clear and easily digestible format.
Complementing the advanced avionics are Daher’s sophisticated e-copilot safety systems, which have been seamlessly carried over and enhanced in the TBM 980. These include crucial features such as flight-envelope monitoring, which provides real-time alerts to prevent the aircraft from exceeding its operational limits, and an emergency descent mode, designed to automatically bring the aircraft to a safe altitude in critical situations. The system also incorporates advanced icing protection for enhanced operational safety in challenging weather conditions, and the highly acclaimed Garmin HomeSafe emergency autoland system, capable of autonomously landing the aircraft in the event of pilot incapacitation. These integrated safety features underscore Daher’s unwavering commitment to pilot and passenger well-being.
A Tight Market and Enduring Value
The remarkable demand for the TBM 980 is occurring against a backdrop of extremely limited supply for newer models within the TBM fleet. This scarcity is a significant factor contributing to the aircraft’s strong market performance and the sustained value retention of late-model TBMs. According to Daher, only three of the 218 TBM 960s produced remain available for sale worldwide. Similarly, the market for the TBM 940 is equally tight, with only four of the 124 aircraft built currently listed for sale.
This exceptionally low availability of pre-owned, late-model TBMs has a direct impact on their market value. The company reports that these aircraft are maintaining values remarkably close to their original purchase prices, a testament to the TBM’s inherent desirability, robust build quality, and the ongoing support provided by Daher. This strong residual value proposition makes the TBM an attractive long-term investment for discerning aircraft owners.
The appeal of the TBM 980 is further exemplified by its adoption by prominent operators. Savage Aviation, a company that already operates a TBM 960, has embraced the new model, highlighting the satisfaction and trust it places in the TBM platform. Another notable example of customer loyalty is Dr. Ian Fries, who took delivery of his sixth TBM-family aircraft in March, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to the brand and its continuous evolution.
The TBM program reached a significant milestone in April, with Daher delivering the 1,300th TBM-family aircraft. This landmark aircraft, a TBM 980, was destined for a customer in the United States, underscoring the global reach and popularity of the TBM line. Across the globe, the TBM fleet has amassed an impressive cumulative total of over 2.6 million flight hours, serving a diverse range of operations including private aviation, business travel, and specialized missions. This extensive operational history further solidifies the TBM’s reputation for reliability and versatility.
A Strategic Vision for the Future
Daher’s presence at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, one of the world’s premier aviation gatherings, provides a crucial platform to showcase its latest offerings and engage directly with its customer base. The company is exhibiting the TBM 980 alongside its robust Kodiak line, including the Kodiak 100 and the larger Kodiak 900. This dual showcasing allows attendees to experience the breadth of Daher’s turboprop portfolio, from the high-performance single-engine TBM to the rugged, utility-focused Kodiak aircraft. AirVenture, running through July 26 at Wittman Regional Airport, serves as a vital venue for industry networking, product promotion, and reinforcing Daher’s position as a leading manufacturer in the general aviation sector.
The overwhelming success of the TBM 980, as evidenced by its record-breaking delivery figures and the projected production ramp-up, signifies more than just strong sales numbers. It represents a validation of Daher’s strategic vision, which prioritizes continuous innovation, customer-centric design, and a commitment to delivering exceptional performance and value. The company’s ability to attract new customers while retaining a loyal base of existing TBM owners speaks volumes about the enduring appeal and market relevance of its single-engine turboprop offerings.
The TBM 980’s introduction has undoubtedly revitalized the single-engine turboprop market, setting new standards for avionics, safety, and operational efficiency. As Daher continues to scale production to meet the surging demand, the TBM 980 is poised to redefine expectations and further solidify its place as a leader in its class, promising an exciting trajectory for the TBM program well into the future. The company’s proactive approach to product development, coupled with its deep understanding of pilot needs and market trends, positions Daher Aircraft for sustained growth and continued success in the global aviation landscape.
Evan Lee Salim 
Lina Hope 
Nana 