Daher-Socata’s target of formally launching a new eight- to 10-seat or equivalent weight twin-engine business airplane sometime next year is still planned, but it depends on the company continuing to seek investment partners to fund the NTx New Twin program, unveiled at last year’s NBAA Convention. The program was expected to launch late this year, but has already slipped with the question of whether the aircraft will be a bigger and faster version of the six-seat single-engine TBM 850 turboprop or a turbofan.
Despite the financial crisis, the company (Booth No. 1065) is proceeding with the estimated $365 million (?250 million) NTx development program. The projected next-generation airplane will have a greater useful load, more payload capability and a larger cabin than the $3 million TBM 850. It is also expected to offer a larger scope of multi-role applications, including possible replacements for customs-service aircraft.
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