This article is based on an official press release from Daher and verified industry data.

Daher Unveils TBM 980: The First Turboprop with Garmin G3000 PRIME

Daher has officially launched the TBM 980, the newest flagship in its high-performance single-engine turboprop family. Unveiled today at the company’s production facility in Tarbes, France, the aircraft introduces significant technological upgrades, most notably the integration of Garmin’s third-generation G3000® PRIME avionics suite. According to the manufacturers, deliveries are scheduled to begin immediately following EASA certification and FAA validation.

The launch event, attended by customers and streamed globally, highlighted the aircraft’s new motto, “Fly Differently.” Nicolas Chabbert, CEO of Daher Aircraft, emphasized that the updates focus on intuitive operation and enhanced connectivity for both pilots and passengers. The TBM 980 replaces the TBM 960 as the top-tier offering in the lineup, with a reported price point of approximately $5.82 million.

A New Era of Avionics: Garmin G3000 PRIME

The defining feature of the TBM 980 is its flight deck. It is one of the first aircraft to feature the Garmin G3000® PRIME, a system designed to reduce pilot workload through improved ergonomics and processing power. The system utilizes three 14-inch edge-to-edge touchscreen displays that offer higher resolution and faster response times than previous generations.

According to Daher, the user interface has been overhauled to resemble modern mobile applications. Pilots can now access essential functions, such as radios, flight plans, and transponder settings, via “slide-out” menus and shortcuts, eliminating the need to navigate through deep sub-menus.

A significant physical change in the cockpit is the removal of the traditional checklist button. It has been replaced by a four-position joystick located on the yoke. This allows pilots to scroll through checklists and mark items as complete without removing their hands from the controls, a feature aimed at maintaining situational awareness during critical phases of flight.

“Its touchscreen-controlled flight deck truly revolutionizes the interface between pilots and the avionics, while the passenger experience is further elevated in the six-seat cabin.”

, Nicolas Chabbert, CEO of Daher Aircraft

Cabin Connectivity and Passenger Comfort

Beyond the cockpit, the TBM 980 addresses the growing demand for in-flight connectivity. The cabin is factory-ready for the installation of a Starlink Mini terminal, enabling high-speed satellite internet access. This upgrade aligns with the aircraft’s target market of owner-pilots and corporate operators who require consistent connectivity.

Additional cabin enhancements include:

• Power: New 100-watt USB-C ports capable of charging laptops and high-draw mobile devices.
• Monitoring: An upgraded “Passenger Comfort Display” that provides real-time enroute flight data.

Performance and Safety Systems

While the avionics and cabin have seen major updates, the TBM 980 retains the propulsion and airframe characteristics of its predecessor, the TBM 960. It is powered by the Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6E-66XT intelligent turboprop engine, paired with a five-blade Hartzell composite propeller. Both are managed by a dual-channel Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) system.

Safety Automation

The aircraft incorporates Daher’s “e-copilot®” safety suite. This includes the HomeSafe™ emergency autoland system, which can automatically guide the aircraft to a landing if the pilot becomes incapacitated. Other automated protections include:

• Ice Protection: Automated de-icing systems and flight envelope monitoring.
• Weather Radar-Systems: The Garmin GWX™ 8000 all-digital radar with StormOptix technology, which automatically adjusts settings to profile storm cells in 3D.
• Emergency Descent Mode (EDM): Automatically descends the aircraft to a safe altitude in the event of cabin depressurization.

Daher also noted that the TBM 980 is approved for “PRIST-free” operations, meaning it does not require anti-icing fuel additives, simplifying logistics for operators.

AirPro News Analysis

The introduction of the TBM 980 signals a shift in the single-engine turboprop market where raw performance gains (speed and range) are plateauing due to aerodynamic and engine limitations. Instead, manufacturers like Daher are competing on “digital luxury” and ease of operation.

By being the launch platform for the Garmin G3000 PRIME, Daher reinforces its reputation for aggressive technological adoption. The shift to app-based interfaces and Starlink integration suggests that the next battleground for turboprops will be user experience (UX), making complex aircraft feel as intuitive as a high-end car or business jet. This strategy directly targets the owner-pilot demographic, who are often willing to pay a premium for reduced workload and cutting-edge interfaces.

Market Context and Availability

The TBM 980 represents the sixth iteration of the TBM 900-series since Daher acquired the product line in 2014. Didier Kayat, Daher Chairman and CEO, stated that the launch underscores the company’s commitment to “continual application of innovation.”

According to industry data, the TBM 980 enters the market with a price tag of roughly $5.82 million, while the TBM 960 remains available for order at approximately $5.62 million. With EASA certification already issued and FAA validation complete, Daher expects to begin deliveries in January 2026.

Sources

• Daher

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

Signature Aviation Adds San José and Pavas to Network via Aerologística Partnerships

Signature Aviation, the world’s largest network of private aviation terminals, officially announced on January 15, 2026, that it is expanding its footprint in Costa Rica with two new network destinations. Through an exclusive partnership with Aerologística, a leading local aviation services provider, Signature will now offer services at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José and Tobías Bolaños International Airport (SYQ) in Pavas.

This announcement marks a significant acceleration of the company’s strategy in Central America. It comes just one week after Signature revealed plans to construct a new General & Business Aviation Terminal (G&BAT) at Guanacaste Airport (LIR), scheduled to open later in 2026. By securing a presence at the country’s primary international gateway (SJO) and its key regional hub (SYQ), Signature Aviation has effectively established a comprehensive network across Costa Rica’s most critical aviation nodes.

According to the press release, the partnership with Aerologística allows Signature to leverage over two decades of local expertise. Aerologística will act as the strategic local partner, handling flights and ground support under Signature’s service standards. The expansion covers all permitted aircraft types, including business jets, cargo, and military transport.

Strategic Partnership and Executive Commentary

The collaboration with Aerologística is described by Signature Aviation as a move to combine global service standards with established local operational capability. Aerologística, founded in San José, is recognized for its flight support and supervisory handling across the region.

In the company’s official statement, Derek DeCross, Chief Commercial Officer of Signature Aviation, emphasized the alignment between the two organizations:

“This expansion is a natural extension of our mission to elevate the guest journey. By partnering with Aerologística, we are combining our global standards with their trusted local expertise to deliver a seamless experience for our customers in Costa Rica.”

Juan Portela, CEO of Aerologística, characterized the agreement as a transformative step for his company:

“This partnership is a defining moment for Aerologística. It evolves our organization from a high-end local provider to a strategic partner with a global platform, allowing us to serve a wider array of international clients with the backing of Signature’s network.”

Market Context and Tourism Growth

Costa Rica has increasingly become a focal point for Private-Jets, driven by a surge in high-net-worth eco-tourism and real estate investment. Data from the Central Bank of Costa Rica indicates that the tourism sector generated a record $5.43 billion in 2024. The influx of luxury travelers has created a higher demand for reliable, standardized private aviation services.

While the new locations at SJO and SYQ will operate through the partnership model, Signature’s commitment to the region also includes hard infrastructure investment. The previously announced terminal at Guanacaste Airport (LIR) will feature a VIP lounge, conference rooms, and a private indoor garage. That facility is being designed with sustainable materials to align with Costa Rica’s environmental reputation.

AirPro News Analysis

We view this expansion as a calculated “asset-light” entry into the highly competitive San José market. By partnering with Aerologística rather than building new infrastructure from scratch at SJO and SYQ immediately, Signature Aviation gains instant operational capacity. This is particularly significant given the competitive landscape; Universal Aviation has operated a General Aviation Terminal at SJO since 2019 and holds a strong market position.

This hybrid approach, building a proprietary terminal at the leisure-heavy Guanacaste airport while partnering at the capital’s busy commercial hubs, allows Signature to capture traffic across the entire country rapidly. It also enables them to funnel their massive loyalty program members into Aerologística’s hands, potentially shifting market share away from established competitors by offering a unified network experience.

Community Engagement

The press release also highlighted Signature’s intention to extend its philanthropic efforts to the region through “Signature Serves.” While specific local projects were not detailed in the January 15 announcement, the initiative generally focuses on workforce development, education, and environmental sustainability. The company stated that the expansion would create local jobs, both in operations at the new partner locations and in the construction of the upcoming Liberia terminal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Airports are included in this expansion?

Signature Aviation is adding Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José and Tobías Bolaños International Airport (SYQ) in Pavas to its network. This is in addition to the upcoming terminal at Guanacaste Airport (LIR).

Who is Aerologística?

Aerologística is a Costa Rican aviation services provider with over 20 years of experience in flight support, ground handling, and logistics. They are Signature’s exclusive local partner for SJO and SYQ.

When does the new service begin?

The partnership and network inclusion were announced as effective immediately regarding the strategic agreement, with the network destinations slated for 2026 operations. The Guanacaste terminal is also scheduled to open later in 2026.

Will Signature build new terminals at SJO and SYQ?

Currently, the operations at SJO and SYQ are structured as a partnership with Aerologística, utilizing existing capabilities. The new construction of a General & Business Aviation Terminal is specifically confirmed for Guanacaste Airport (LIR).

Sources

• Signature Aviation Press Release (Yahoo Finance)
• Central Bank of Costa Rica (Market Data)

This article summarizes reporting by Business Airport International.

International Flight Center Debuts Luxury FBO Terminal at Miami Executive Airport

International Flight Center (IFC) has officially opened a new 10,500-square-foot luxury terminal at Miami Executive Airport (KTMB), marking the culmination of a significant multi-year expansion strategy. According to reporting by Business Airport International, the new facility is positioned to serve high-net-worth individuals and corporate flight departments traveling to one of the world’s busiest business aviation destinations.

The opening follows the 2024 debut of a massive hangar complex, solidifying IFC’s footprint on the southwest side of the airfield near the U.S. Customs office. As the company celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2026, this expansion aims to address the critical demand for premium infrastructure in the South Florida market.

A Boutique Approach to Ground Handling

The newly constructed terminal replaces an older facility and is designed to offer a “boutique” experience that differentiates IFC from larger corporate chains. Business Airport International reports that the terminal features a contemporary lobby with warm tones and sleek accents, intended to provide a welcoming atmosphere for passengers and crew alike.

Key amenities incorporated into the new design include:

• Crew Comfort: Private “snooze rooms” with en-suite bathrooms to allow pilots to rest between flights.
• Business Capabilities: A 10-seat conference room equipped with full audio-visual technology.
• VIP Services: Dedicated guest lounges, a refreshment bar, and concierge services.

In addition to passenger services, the terminal houses an FAA Part 145 repair station, providing on-site maintenance capabilities that streamline operations for based and transient aircraft.

In a statement regarding the opening, Wilfredo Valle, President and Co-founder of IFC, emphasized the focus on customer experience:

“We couldn’t be more excited to welcome guests to our new facility. Every detail has been meticulously planned to create the ultimate private flying experience…”

, Wilfredo Valle, President of IFC (via press release)

Infrastructure Expansion and Hangar Capacity

While the terminal serves as the front door for passengers, the operational core of the expansion is the hangar complex completed in 2024. Data from the International Flight Center indicates the complex totals 84,000 square feet, divided into three separate 28,000-square-foot hangars.

These facilities were specifically engineered to accommodate ultra-long-range business jets, such as the Bombardier Global 8000. The hangars feature 28-foot high doors and foam-free fire suppression systems, addressing modern safety and size requirements. With this addition, IFC now manages approximately 550,000 square feet (over 12.5 acres) of ramp space, providing substantial parking capacity for transient aircraft.

AirPro News analysis

The expansion of International Flight Center comes at a pivotal moment for the South Florida aviation market. Miami Executive Airport (KTMB) serves as a primary reliever for Miami International Airport (MIA), absorbing a high volume of private traffic that seeks to avoid commercial congestion. However, the region has historically faced a severe shortage of hangar space capable of housing large-cabin jets like Gulfstreams and Globals.

By adding 84,000 square feet of hangarage, IFC is directly targeting this supply gap. Furthermore, the move strengthens IFC’s competitive position against established rivals at KTMB, including Signature Flight Support and Reliance Aviation. While competitors leverage global network scale, IFC appears to be betting on a “family-owned” and “boutique” service model to attract operators who prefer personalized attention over corporate standardization.

Strategic Partnerships and History

Founded in the mid-1980s, IFC is a family-owned business that has operated at KTMB for four decades. The company maintains a strategic partnership with Avfuel, operating as an Avfuel-branded FBO. This allows them to offer contract fuel and loyalty rewards, which remain significant drawcards for flight departments managing operating costs.

Joe Taravella, a Regional Manager for Avfuel, commented on the long-term vision of the Valle family in a public statement:

“It isn’t often you are able to see someone accomplish a lifelong dream. Watching the Valle family bring this beautiful FBO to life has been inspiring.”

, Joe Taravella, Avfuel Regional Manager

The owners also operate sister companies Corporate Air Charter and Propel Aviation, creating a vertically integrated service environment that includes charter, maintenance, and sales alongside the new FBO terminal.

Sources

Sources: Business Airport International, International Flight Center