This article is based on an official press release from Daher.

Daher, the world’s oldest airplane manufacturer in continuous operation, is aggressively modernizing its footprint in the single-engine turboprop market. Tracing its aviation roots back to the pioneering French company Morane-Saulnier in 1911, the €1.8 billion aerospace industrialist has successfully cultivated two distinct but complementary aircraft families: the high-speed TBM and the rugged Kodiak.

According to a recent company press release and market updates, Daher delivered 76 aircraft in 2025, stabilizing its market presence while preparing for a major product cycle update. The company’s dual-continent manufacturing strategy, producing the TBM in Tarbes, France, and the Kodiak in Sandpoint, Idaho, has allowed it to capture diverse market segments ranging from luxury private aviation to heavy-duty public service operations.

In January 2026, Daher officially unveiled its newest flagship, the TBM 980, signaling a strong push toward advanced automation and passenger connectivity. As the general aviation sector increasingly prioritizes fuel efficiency and operational economy, Daher’s strategic evolution of both the TBM and Kodiak lines positions the manufacturer to compete fiercely against industry giants like Textron Aviation and Airbus.

The TBM Family: Introducing the TBM 980

The TBM series has long been recognized for offering jet-like cruise speeds combined with the operational cost benefits of a single-engine turboprop. Following the acquisition of the product line in 2014, Daher launched the highly successful 900-series, which recently celebrated its 600th delivery in 2025.

Next-Generation Avionics and Safety

In January 2026, Daher introduced the TBM 980. According to the company’s specifications, the new variant is powered by a Pratt & Whitney PT6E-66XT engine paired with a five-blade Hartzell composite propeller. The most significant upgrades, however, are found in the cockpit and cabin.

The TBM 980 integrates the third-generation Garmin G3000 PRIME avionics suite, which utilizes three 14-inch edge-to-edge touchscreens designed to drastically reduce pilot workload. Furthermore, the aircraft features the HomeSafe™ emergency autoland system. In the event of pilot incapacitation, this system can autonomously navigate, communicate with air traffic control, and land the aircraft safely.

Passenger experience has also been a focal point for Daher. The TBM 980 cabin now includes a Starlink Mini satellite internet terminal, high-power USB-C ports, and an upgraded passenger display system. Market reception has been exceptionally strong; Daher reports that production slots are already pushed into 2027. As of April 2026, the company has delivered 10 TBM 980s, including one to long-time customer Dr. Ian Fries, who recently took delivery of his sixth TBM aircraft, a testament to the brand’s high rate of repeat buyers.

The Kodiak Family: Expanding Utility

While the TBM caters to high-speed luxury, the Kodiak family is engineered for remote, off-airport, and amphibious operations. Daher acquired Quest Aircraft in 2019, bringing the unpressurized, 10-seat Kodiak platform into its portfolio.

Scaling Up with the Kodiak 900

Complementing the rugged Kodiak 100 Series III, often described as the ultimate bush plane, Daher launched the Kodiak 900 in 2022, with deliveries commencing in 2023. The Kodiak 900 features a 3.9-foot fuselage extension that increases cabin volume by 20%. Powered by a 900-shaft-horsepower Pratt & Whitney PT6A-140A engine, it achieves a cruise speed of 210 KTAS.

Daher highlights that the Kodiak 900 achieves a 9% reduction in specific fuel consumption compared to its competitors, significantly lowering the cost-per-seat-mile for commercial operators. To support this expansion, Daher recently invested in its Sandpoint, Idaho facility, adding a $2.7 million paint facility and duplicating final assembly stations to build both Kodiak models in parallel.

Speaking on the aircraft’s environmental and operational benefits in the company’s release, Nicolas Chabbert, CEO of Daher Aircraft, emphasized its unique market position:

“This is another answer to the commitment of enhancing sustainability and improving the carbon footprint of general aviation. The Kodiak 900 is in a category of its own: a highly versatile unpressurized utility turboprop airplane that can carry impressive payloads while cruising comfortably at 210 KTS in refined luxury.”

2025 Market Performance and Global Reach

Daher’s 2025 delivery figures, released in early 2026, reflect a stabilized market with strong geographic demand. The company delivered a total of 76 aircraft last year, comprising 51 TBMs (primarily the TBM 960) and 25 Kodiaks.

Delivery Milestones and Multi-Mission Growth

By the close of 2025, Daher’s cumulative deliveries reached 1,294 TBMs and 390 Kodiaks, with the global fleet accumulating approximately 3 million flight hours. Geographic dominance remains heavily skewed toward the Americas, which accounted for over 75% of TBM deliveries in 2025, followed by Europe at 23%. To further capitalize on emerging markets, Daher established a new operational hub in São Paulo, Brazil, in 2025.

Beyond private ownership, Daher is seeing significant growth in the multi-mission segment. In 2025, 30% of Kodiak deliveries were allocated for multi-mission roles, including North American law enforcement. Similarly, the TBM platform is being adapted for public service; the Canadian Conair Group currently utilizes TBM 960s as “birddog” aircraft to coordinate aerial firefighting drops over active wildfires.

Reflecting on the company’s operational resilience, Chabbert noted the dedication of the manufacturing teams:

“Our teams remained fully mobilized through the final days of 2025 with one clear priority: delivering for our customers. Their commitment highlighted our ability to stay focused on execution and customer promises, even as conditions evolved during the year.”

AirPro News analysis

Daher’s strategy of maintaining two highly distinct aircraft lines is proving to be a formidable moat in the single-engine turboprop market. By refusing to blend the TBM and Kodiak into a compromised middle-ground aircraft, Daher effectively captures both the high-net-worth owner-operator seeking jet-like speeds and the commercial/utility operator requiring rugged payload capacity.

The introduction of the TBM 980 is particularly notable for its integration of consumer-grade technology, such as Starlink, alongside advanced safety automation like Garmin’s HomeSafe. This reflects a broader aviation trend where reducing pilot workload and enhancing passenger connectivity are becoming just as critical as raw aerodynamic performance. Furthermore, the 9% fuel efficiency gain in the Kodiak 900 aligns perfectly with the general aviation sector’s increasing pressure to demonstrate sustainability without sacrificing utility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the newest aircraft in the TBM family?
The newest model is the TBM 980, launched in January 2026. It features Garmin G3000 PRIME avionics, Starlink connectivity, and the HomeSafe emergency autoland system.

Where are Daher aircraft manufactured?
Daher utilizes a dual-continent manufacturing footprint. The TBM family is built in Tarbes, France, while the Kodiak family is manufactured in Sandpoint, Idaho, in the United States.

How many aircraft did Daher deliver in 2025?
Daher delivered a total of 76 aircraft in 2025, consisting of 51 TBMs and 25 Kodiaks.

What is the difference between the Kodiak 100 and the Kodiak 900?
The Kodiak 100 is designed as a rugged, short-takeoff-and-landing (STOL) bush plane. The Kodiak 900, introduced in 2022, features a 3.9-foot longer fuselage, a more powerful 900-shp engine, and a faster cruise speed of 210 KTAS, making it better suited for higher-capacity commercial and utility operations.

Sources

• Daher Press Release

This article is based on an official press release from Textron Aviation Inc.

Textron Aviation to Showcase Citation Ascend and Longitude at AERO Friedrichshafen 2026

Textron Aviation Inc., a subsidiary of Textron Inc., has announced its aircraft lineup for the upcoming AERO Friedrichshafen trade show, scheduled for April 22–25, 2026, in Friedrichshafen, Germany. According to the company’s press release, the event will be headlined by the European show debut of the midsize Cessna Citation Ascend and the show debut of the super-midsize Cessna Citation Longitude.

The exhibition at Messe Friedrichshafen highlights Textron’s continued investment in the European business and general aviation market. We note that the manufacturers already maintains a substantial fleet presence in the region, and this showcase aims to present its latest advancements in passenger comfort and pilot-centric technology directly to European operators at Static Display SD-11.

Spotlight on the Citation Ascend and Longitude

The Citation Ascend Makes Its European Debut

The Citation Ascend represents the newest evolution in Cessna’s highly successful 560XL series, which includes the Excel, XLS, and XLS+ models. As detailed in the official release, the aircraft is designed to bring super-midsize comfort to the midsize jet category. A major selling point is its new flat-floor design, which replaces the dropped center aisle of previous models to offer passengers increased legroom and mobility.

Performance-wise, the Ascend is powered by dual Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545D engines equipped with Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC). Textron states the aircraft offers a maximum cruise speed of 441 knots and a four-passenger range of 1,900 nautical miles, with a maximum estimated range of 2,100 nautical miles. The cabin is heavily modernized, boasting 19 standard USB-C ports, wireless smartphone charging at every main seat, electrically actuated window shades, and an unattended Honeywell RE100 [XL] Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) for ground climate control without running the main engines.

“We designed the Citation Ascend by listening to customers, then elevating an iconic platform to deliver more capability, comfort and confidence for every mission,” stated Lannie O’Bannion, Senior Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Textron Aviation.

The Super-Midsize Citation Longitude

Joining the Ascend is the Citation Longitude, currently Textron Aviation’s largest business jet. Competing in the super-midsize market, the Longitude is powered by two Honeywell HTF7700L turbofan engines, each producing 7,665 pounds of thrust. According to the manufacturer’s specifications, it boasts a transcontinental range of 3,500 nautical miles and a maximum cruise speed of 483 knots.

The Longitude accommodates up to 12 passengers and features a full-fuel payload of 1,600 pounds. Its six-foot stand-up, flat-floor cabin is marketed by Textron as the quietest in its class, achieved through exclusive soundproofing techniques. Both the Longitude and the Ascend utilize the Garmin G5000 flight deck, which includes fully integrated autothrottles, synthetic vision, and ultra-high-resolution displays to significantly reduce pilot workload.

A Comprehensive European Strategy

Broader Aircraft Lineup on Display

Beyond the flagship jets, Textron Aviation will showcase a diverse portfolio representing its Cessna, Beechcraft, and Pipistrel brands. The lineup includes the Cessna Citation M2 Gen2 light jet, the twin-engine Beechcraft King Air 260 turboprop, and the Cessna Grand Caravan EX utility turboprop, which will be displayed featuring a new Saddle Sport executive interior and a McCauley propeller.

Additionally, the Cessna Turbo Stationair HD piston aircraft and the Pipistrel Virus SW light aircraft will be present, demonstrating the breadth of Textron’s offerings from electric and light aircraft to heavy utility and business jets.

“At AERO Friedrichshafen, we’re proud to bring the Ascend to Europe and show how its modern avionics, refined cabin and proven performance are purpose-built for operators here and around the world,” O’Bannion added in the company release.

AirPro News analysis

Textron Aviation’s aggressive push at AERO Friedrichshafen 2026 underscores the strategic importance of the European market to the manufacturer. Based on the provided company data, Textron currently has more than 1,700 turbine aircraft based in Europe. This regional fleet includes over 850 Cessna Citation business jets, 450 Beechcraft King Air turboprops, and 175 Cessna Caravan turboprops.

The European debut of the Ascend is particularly significant for regional fleet modernization. The 560XL series is one of the most successful business jet families in history, Textron notes that a 560XL aircraft takes off or lands every two minutes globally. By bringing the Ascend directly to European buyers, we believe Textron is strategically positioning itself to capture operators looking to upgrade aging midsize fleets with modern, tech-heavy, and passenger-centric aircraft that prioritize both cabin comfort and pilot ease-of-use.

Frequently Asked Questions

When and where is AERO Friedrichshafen 2026?
The event takes place from April 22–25, 2026, at Messe Friedrichshafen in Friedrichshafen, Germany. Textron Aviation will be located at Static Display SD-11.

What is the range of the Cessna Citation Ascend?
According to Textron Aviation, the Ascend has a four-passenger range of 1,900 nautical miles, with a maximum estimated range of 2,100 nautical miles.

How many passengers can the Citation Longitude carry?
The super-midsize Citation Longitude can accommodate up to 12 passengers in its six-foot stand-up, flat-floor cabin.

Sources

• Textron Aviation Press Release

This article is based on an official press release from Comlux America.

Comlux America has officially received a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the Airbus ACJ TwoTwenty cabin. According to a company press release issued on April 6, 2026, the certification was achieved in collaboration with DOA21, a Design Organization Approval holder and subsidiary of the Comlux Group.

This regulatory milestone allows DOA21 to certify design modifications for the Airbus ACJ TwoTwenty cabins in full compliance with FAA safety and airworthiness standards. The approval marks a significant step forward for the aircraft program, opening the door for broader adoption in the United States.

With this new FAA certification, Comlux America now holds dual regulatory approval for the ACJ TwoTwenty cabin, having previously secured certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).

Expanding North American Reach

Dual Certification and N-Number Registration

The dual certification from both EASA and the FAA positions Comlux America to offer the ACJ TwoTwenty cabin to a wider client base across North America. In its press release, the company noted that customers can now acquire the cabin and register their aircraft under the FAA’s N-Number Registry, adhering to U.S. aviation requirements.

This development is expected to streamline project execution for North American clients and strengthen the global applicability of Comlux’s certified cabin portfolio.

“The entire philosophy of the Airbus ACJ TwoTwenty program has been to anticipate the customer’s needs and offer a product ready to meet their expectations,” said Adam White, CEO of Comlux America, in the company’s statement.

White added that while no ACJ TwoTwenty is currently on the N register, the FAA certification ensures that future U.S. registrations will be a straightforward process.

Strengthening Certification Capabilities

Building on Previous FAA Successes

The recent STC award represents a crucial extension of Comlux America’s certification capabilities. The company highlighted in its release that this achievement builds upon its previous experience within the FAA approval framework, which includes the certification of the first Boeing BBJ MAX 8 cabin under FAA oversight.

DOA21, a Malta-based EASA-approved Design Organization, played a central role in securing the approval. The subsidiary offers tailored aircraft modifications and repairs across various disciplines, including structural, electrical, and cabin safety.

“This marks yet another significant milestone for the DOA and the whole Comlux team and another first for the ACJ TwoTwenty type,” stated Peter Gaughan, CEO of DOA21, in the press release.

Comlux America, based in Indianapolis, provides cabin outfitting, modifications, and maintenance services to a global clientele, including heads of state and corporate fleet operators.

AirPro News analysis

The FAA certification of the ACJ TwoTwenty cabin is a critical commercial enabler for Airbus and Comlux. The North American market remains the largest and most lucrative region for business aviation. By securing the ability to register these aircraft under the FAA’s N-Number system, Comlux removes a significant regulatory hurdle for U.S.-based ultra-high-net-worth individuals and corporate flight departments.

Based on industry specifications published by Airbus and Comlux, the ACJ TwoTwenty, an executive variant of the Airbus A220 commercial-aircraft, offers a range of up to 5,650 nautical miles and can accommodate up to 18 passengers in a 73-square-meter cabin. Comlux serves as the exclusive completion partner for the first 15 to 17 of these aircraft. We believe the ability to offer a fully FAA-compliant, turnkey cabin solution from its Indianapolis facility gives Comlux a distinct competitive advantage in the heavy business jet segment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC)?

An STC is an approval issued by an aviation authority, such as the FAA, modifying an aeronautical product’s original design. In this case, it allows Comlux to install and certify its custom VIP cabin interiors in the Airbus ACJ TwoTwenty.

Who is DOA21?

DOA21 is a Malta-based subsidiary of the Comlux Group. It is an EASA-approved Design Organization that collaborates with Comlux America to engineer and certify aircraft cabin modifications.

Why is FAA certification important for the ACJ TwoTwenty?

FAA certification allows the aircraft to be placed on the U.S. N-Number Registry. This is essential for U.S.-based owners and operators who require their aircraft to meet American safety and airworthiness standards.

Sources

• Comlux America