EADS Socata RVSM Upgrade Program takes TBM700 customers to a Higher Level.
Turnkey, factory certified RVSM solution for all TBM owners
Oshkosh, WI, 26 July 2005
EADS Socata announced today that almost 10% of its TBM 700 fleet has now been upgraded to allow RVSM operation since the program was launched early this year. The TBM 700 RVSM upgrade (which is available not only via EADS Socata maintenance locations, but also though its worldwide distributor network) includes RVSM hardware, installation, validation test flight together with full customization of the aircraft’s documentation. Also included in the program is project management of the entire process with the FAA through to issuance of the all-important “Letter of Authorization” which allows the aircraft owner to actually enter RVSM airspace.
“RVSM unlocks the full potential of the TBM 700 allowing owners to fly higher, increasing range, decreasing operating costs and allowing operators more options to top the weather” said Stephane Bernard, President and CEO of Socata Aircraft (EADS Socata’s US subsidiary). “We felt it important that EADS Socata provide the factory solution that our owners were asking for. We also felt it equally important that we manage complete installation process for them as well as providing a guaranteed in-shop turnaround time of just two weeks. I believe this is the lowest-cost RVSM upgrade offered by any manufacturer for an aircraft in this class and is a sign of our commitment to our customers he added.”
“RVSM is essential for most of my trips since I’m located in Wyoming and travel frequently to the East Coast” said Jerry Fussell, TBM owner. “I surveyed the market and Socata’s RVSM turn-key package was the most cost effective solution on the market. They project managed the whole process and I obtained the LOA in record time. I’m really pleased with Socata’s customer support for this solution.”
RVSM approval covers the complete range of TBM 700 models and allows upgraded aircraft with suitably trained pilots to have access to the TBM’s maximum certified altitude of 31,000 feet in areas where RVSM airspace exists.
EADS Socata is one of the world’s leading general aviation manufacturers with more than 6,000 aircraft flying in 65 countries, continuing a tradition initiated by Morane-Saulnier in 1911, which includes the MS 760 ParisJet, the world’s first business jet. EADS Socata manufactures the TBM700 high-speed turboprop and the TB GT range of piston-engined touring and training aircraft, as well as being an industrial partner of Airbus airliners (including the new Airbus A380), the A400M military transport, the Dassault Falcon 7X as well as Eurocopter helicopters and Embraer regional jets.
Based in France, with North American headquarters at Pembroke Pines, Florida, EADS Socata is a wholly-owned subsidiary of EADS, the second largest aerospace and defense company in the world.
