Blackhawk Aerospace is developing a supplemental type certificate (STC) to re-engine the Daher TBM 700 series with 150 more shaft horsepower, in partnership with sister company and TBM-authorized sales and service center Avex Aviation. The STC will replace the 700-shp Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-64 on the TBM 700A, 700B, and 700C2 with the 850-shp PT6A-66D.
Performance of the re-engined TBM 700 will be boosted to that of the TBM 850, according to Blackhawk. Time to climb to FL310 for the PT6A-66D-powered TBM 700 drops to 14 minutes from 16 minutes and 39 seconds, and maximum cruise speed ranges from 287 to 307 ktas, improving overall efficiency and adding to safety margins.
AirVenture visitors can see N590JL, the TBM 700C2 that Blackhawk is modifying, at the company’s show exhibit. Avex’s Camarillo, California team has already refurbished this TBM with a new interior and LED interior lighting, fresh paint by ArtCraft Paint, and a full panel of Garmin avionics. These include dual 10-inch G600 TXi displays with engine indication system; a GCU 485 keyboard controller; GFC 600 digital autopilot with envelope protection; GI 275 standby indicator; dual transponders; and GWX 75R digital color radar.