Socata TBM 700 vs. Pilatus PC-12

[mainah]

I was wondering if anyone out there can give me real world numbers for TAS of long and short range cruise for both these aircraft. I already have all the rosy numbers provided by both manufacturers but are looking for what I can expect. Specifically what you typically get over a 100, 500, and 1000 nautical mile trip. Any info would be appreciated.

 

[Benny Hill]

No numbers for the TBM, but here are the basics for the PC-12:
Flight plan for 255 KTAS, 500 lbs for the first hour, 400 lbs for every hour after that.
It will do 250-260 every day of the week- the propoganda from Pilatus says 270 KTAS and it will do it if you run 760 ITT. I like720 ITT better.
I ALWAYS tried to run at Max cruise numbers- I don't have the need to sit in an airplane for more than 6+ hours to see what the range for best economy is....it is quicker to stop for fuel if needed on a really long trip.

We looked at both airplanes and the TBM was nice if we were moving one or two people with no bags; any more than two and the cabin started to get tight. The aft cargo door and tha lav on the PC-12 were GREAT features and selling points.

Support from Socata has been reported as poor at best, Pilatus and the service centers that I've dealt with were fantastic.

TBM will tell you that the 700 is a 300 KTAS airplane. We flew the airplane on two separate demo flights (both 300+ nm) and never saw better than 275.

Clearly, I am very happy with the PC-12 and am biased in my response.

Feel free to PM if you have any other questions.

Good luck

 

[sstearns2]

....

The newest TBMs have a significant useful load increase. The 300 KTAS number is for a light, clean airplane without the radar dome. I've only been up front once up high, but we saw high 280s KTAS with the radar dome. It's a really nice flying airplane, like an F33 bonanza.

Scott

 

[NEDude]

I can't remember specific numbers from the PC-12, it has been a while. But my old company could run them non-stop from Manchester, NH (MHT) to Naples, FL (APF) most of the time. The trip would run about 6-7 hours.

I loved the PC-12, a great airplane. A nice ride in back as well. Would buy one of those before a lot of light jets - if I ever won the lottery.

 

[mainah]

Thanks for the info. Hopefully this plus the company info will help make the decision. Sounds like the PC-12 is the way to go.

 

[Flying Illini]

I've always been a fan of the PC-12 (I think it looks better too!) but after reading about the new TBM 700C I think that it may be worth a second look. I believe the article was in Flying magazine.