Business Aviation
Daher TBM 980 Receives Brazil ANAC Certification for 2026 Delivery
Daher Aircraft’s TBM 980 turboprop secures Brazil ANAC certification, enabling deliveries in South America with advanced avionics and safety features.
On March 9, 2026, Daher Aircraft announced that its latest turboprop model, the TBM 980, has officially received airworthiness certification from Brazil’s civil aviation authority, ANAC (Agência Nacional de Aviação Civil). According to the company’s press release, this regulatory milestone clears the path for deliveries to owners and operators across Brazil and the broader South American region.
The TBM 980, which was formally unveiled in Tarbes, France, on January 15 following certifications from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), represents the sixth variant in the TBM 900-series since Daher acquired the program in 2014. Daher confirmed that five units have already been delivered to customers in the United States, with a demonstrator aircraft currently based at the company’s U.S. headquarters in Pompano Beach, Florida.
With the ANAC certification now secured, Daher stated that the first scheduled delivery of a TBM 980 to a Brazilian customer is slated for July 2026. The aircraft is being marketed under the tagline “Fly Differently,” emphasizing significant upgrades in avionics, passenger comfort, and automated safety systems.
Technological Advancements in the TBM 980
Garmin G3000® PRIME Integration
A central feature of the TBM 980 is its flight deck, which Daher notes is equipped with Garmin’s third-generation G3000® PRIME integrated avionics suite. Background research provided by industry reports indicates that this next-generation system offers a massive leap in processing capabilities, featuring twice the CPU power, four times the memory, and gigabit connectivity, making it up to 100 times faster than previous iterations.
The press release highlights that the cockpit features three 14-inch edge-to-edge touchscreen displays. These fingerprint-resistant screens are designed to ensure seamless control of flight functions while significantly improving cockpit ergonomics and reducing pilot workload through customizable presets.
Enhanced Safety with e-copilot® and HomeSafe™
Safety remains a focal point for the TBM 980. Daher’s official statements detail the inclusion of the e-copilot® system, which integrates advanced weather detection, icing protection, and flight envelope monitoring. Furthermore, the aircraft is equipped with Garmin’s Collier Trophy-winning Autoland technology, branded by Daher as HomeSafe™.
In the event of pilot incapacitation, the HomeSafe™ system can autonomously take control of the aircraft, navigate to the nearest suitable airport, communicate with air traffic control, and execute a safe landing. Additional safety tools integrated into the avionics suite include Emergency Descent Mode (EDM) for rapid depressurization events, Electronic Stability Protection (ESP), and a Runway Overrun Awareness and Alerting System (ROAAS).
Performance and Passenger Experience
Powertrain and Range Capabilities
According to Daher’s specifications, the TBM 980 delivers near jet-like performance, boasting a maximum cruise speed of 610 km/h (330 knots) and a maximum range of 3,204 kilometers (1,730 nautical miles). The aircraft is powered by a Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6E-66XT intelligent turboprop engine, which is paired with a five-blade Hartzell Raptor™ composite propeller.
The propulsion system is managed by a dual-channel digital Engine and Propeller Electronic Control System (EPECS). This digital e-throttle simplifies engine management, allowing for single-lever operation and optimizing performance across various flight phases.
The Upgraded Cabin Experience
Daher has also focused on elevating the passenger experience in the TBM 980’s digitally controlled cabin. The press release outlines new features, including an upgraded Passenger Comfort Display (PCD) that provides enroute flight data. Additionally, the aircraft offers a factory-installed interface on the right-side cockpit visor area designed to support satellite-based internet connectivity via the Starlink Mini terminal.
Supplementary industry data notes that the cabin also includes customizable ambient lighting, electrically-dimmable windows, and 100-watt USB-C charging ports to accommodate modern business and personal travel needs.
Strategic Expansion in South America
The certification of the TBM 980 in Brazil aligns with Daher Aircraft’s broader strategic expansion into Latin America. The company reports that approximately 60 TBM aircraft across various versions are currently utilized by owners and operators in Brazil and the surrounding region. To support this growing fleet, Daher established a permanent operational base in São Paulo in late 2025.
This local presence is designed to support both the TBM family and the company’s utility-category Kodiak 100 and Kodiak 900 product lines. In official company statements regarding the expansion, Daher executives emphasized their commitment to the region.
“The TBM 980 is the sixth aircraft launched by Daher in the TBM 900 series since we acquired the product line in 2014. This reinforces our firm commitment to the evolution of the aircraft family through the continuous application of innovation.”, Didier Kayat, President and CEO of Daher
“With a thriving general aviation community and an increasing demand for both high-performance and utility aircraft, our TBM and Kodiak are perfectly aligned with the operational needs across Brazil.”, Nicolas Chabbert, CEO of Daher’s Aircraft Division
AirPro News analysis
We observe that Daher’s aggressive push into the Brazilian market is highly strategic. Brazil represents one of the most dynamic markets for general aviation globally, driven largely by its vast geography and a booming agribusiness sector. Turboprops like the TBM 980 are particularly favored in this environment because they offer the high-altitude, high-speed cruise performance of light jets, while retaining the rugged capability to operate on the short, unpaved, or rough runways frequently found in Brazil’s remote agricultural regions.
By establishing a permanent headquarters near São Paulo’s Congonhas Airport in 2025 and securing ANAC certification early in 2026, Daher is positioning itself to capture a larger share of the Latin American market. The integration of the Starlink Mini terminal is also a highly relevant feature for this demographic, as reliable internet connectivity has historically been a challenge for operators flying over the Amazon basin or deep into the Brazilian interior.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- When will the first TBM 980 be delivered in Brazil?
According to Daher, the initial TBM 980 for a Brazilian customer is scheduled for delivery in July 2026. - What is the maximum speed and range of the TBM 980?
The aircraft has a maximum cruise speed of 610 km/h (330 knots) and a maximum range of 3,204 kilometers (1,730 nautical miles). - What avionics system does the TBM 980 use?
It is equipped with Garmin’s third-generation G3000® PRIME integrated avionics suite, featuring three 14-inch touchscreen displays. - Does the TBM 980 have an autoland feature?
Yes, it features Daher’s HomeSafe™ emergency autoland functionality, which can autonomously land the plane if the pilot becomes incapacitated.
Sources: Daher Aircraft Press Release
Photo Credit: Daher
Business Aviation
Beyond Aero Plans French Riviera Hydrogen Infrastructure by 2030
Beyond Aero and Aéroports de la Côte d’Azur will build hydrogen refueling facilities at three French Riviera airports by 2030.
Beyond Aero and Aéroports de la Côte d’Azur announced a partnership on September 3, 2026, to develop gaseous hydrogen refueling infrastructure across three major French Riviera airports by 2030. The initiative aims to synchronize ground support readiness with the projected entry into service of hydrogen-electric business jets.
In a joint press conference held in Nice, France, the companies detailed plans to equip Nice Côte d’Azur (LFMN), Cannes Mandelieu (LFMD), and Golfe de Saint-Tropez (LFTZ) airports with dedicated hydrogen facilities. According to the official press release and reporting by Aviation International News, the infrastructure will specifically cater to business aviation volumes to support aircraft like Beyond Aero’s in-development BYA-1.
Infrastructure and operational rollout
The operational plan evaluates the use of both fixed dispensers in dedicated parking areas and mobile refueling vehicles. Hydrogen is expected to be produced locally and transported to the airports via tube trailers.
According to Beyond Aero, Cannes Mandelieu is projected to be the first of the three airports to receive the hydrogen refueling equipment. The phased approach is designed to ensure that storage and distribution facilities are fully operational by the 2030 target date.
“With Aéroports de la Côte d’Azur, we are working from practical scenarios tailored to business aviation volumes and based on available technologies. This phased approach is essential to enable safe, viable operations when the first aircraft enter service,” said Eloa Guillotin, Co-founder and CEO of Beyond Aero, as reported by Aviation International News.
Building a hydrogen aviation ecosystem
The partnership on the Mediterranean coast complements Beyond Aero’s existing collaboration with Groupe ADP at Paris-Le Bourget Airport (LBG). As reported by H2Today, these combined initiatives lay the groundwork for a future hydrogen flight corridor between Paris and the French Riviera.
Beyond Aero has been advancing its aircraft technology alongside its infrastructure efforts. The Toulouse-based manufacturer previously achieved Technology Readiness Level 6 (TRL6) for its full-scale hydrogen-electric propulsion system in late 2025.
Guillotin emphasized the necessity of parallel development tracks during the press conference. She noted that infrastructure readiness must advance at the exact same pace as aircraft development to ensure viability.
AirPro News analysis
We view the synchronization of aircraft certification and ground infrastructure as the primary bottleneck for alternative propulsion in business aviation. By securing commitments from major regional operators like Aéroports de la Côte d’Azur and Groupe ADP, Beyond Aero is mitigating the risk of delivering a certified aircraft with nowhere to refuel. The choice of Cannes Mandelieu as the initial testbed is strategic, given its strict noise and emissions regulations and its status as a premier European business aviation hub.
Sources: Beyond Aero
Photo Credit: Beyond Aero
Business Aviation
Thrive Aviation Launches Fractional Program with Honda Subsidiary
Thrive Aviation partners with Honda Aircraft Company subsidiary Arulean Air to launch a fractional jet ownership program.
Las Vegas-based Thrive Aviation has secured a minority investment from Honda Aircraft Company subsidiary Arulean Air to launch a new fractional aircraft ownership program. The Partnerships, announced on September 2, 2026, positions Arulean Air as the aircraft acquisition arm while Thrive Aviation will manage flight operations, program logistics, and client relations.
The collaboration marks a significant expansion for Thrive Aviation, which ranked as the 12th-largest private aircraft operator in the United States in 2025 based on charter and fractional hours, according to ARGUS Traqpak data reported by Forbes. In a press release issued today, Thrive Aviation indicated that full program details will be unveiled at the National Business Aviation Association Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) in Las Vegas from October 20 to 22, 2026.
Fleet expansion and aircraft acquisition
Under the new structure, Arulean Air will purchase the aircraft for the fractional fleet. Thrive Aviation currently operates a fleet of 30 aircraft and plans to scale its offerings significantly through this joint effort.
The initial fractional fleet growth will focus on two specific aircraft types. The companies anticipate adding four to six HondaJet HA-420 light jets and two to four Bombardier Challenger 3500 super-midsize jets to the program annually.
Thrive Aviation Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer Curtis Edenfield stated that the partnership provides the foundation to build the program at scale alongside an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) subsidiary.
“Adding fractional ownership opportunities enables Thrive Aviation to serve a broad spectrum of clients throughout their entire private aviation journey, from private charters to fractional ownership to full ownership,” Edenfield said in the release.
Edenfield noted that the company intends to evolve alongside its clients’ aviation needs, describing the fractional program as a major piece of the Thrive platform designed for long-term scaling.
Strategic alignment with Honda Aircraft Company
The involvement of Arulean Air represents a direct link between an OEM and a charter operator. By utilizing a subsidiary to invest in Thrive Aviation, Honda Aircraft Company secures a dedicated operating partner for its products in the competitive fractional ownership market.
The relationship between the two entities extends beyond the current HondaJet HA-420 production model. Forbes reported that Thrive Aviation holds a Letter of Intent for the HondaJet Echelon, a long-range light jet currently under development by Honda Aircraft Company and projected to enter commercial service in 2028 or 2029.
AirPro News analysis
We view this minority investment as a calculated move by Honda Aircraft Company to guarantee placement and operational utilization of its airframes. As the fractional ownership market continues to consolidate around a few dominant players, OEMs are increasingly looking for ways to ensure their aircraft remain competitive options for fleet buyers. By backing Thrive Aviation, Honda creates a reliable pipeline for both the HA-420 and the upcoming Echelon, while Thrive gains the financial backing and fleet acquisition power necessary to compete with larger, established fractional operators.
Sources: Thrive Aviation
Photo Credit: Thrive Aviation
Business Aviation
Bell 407GXi and 505 Showcased at Salon Prive Concours
Bell Textron exhibits the 407GXi and 505 at Blenheim Palace, targeting VIP buyers after the 505 hits 700 deliveries.
Bell Textron Inc. is targeting the European luxury and corporate travel market by showcasing its Bell 407GXi Designer Series and Bell 505 helicopters at the Salon Privé Concours in Oxfordshire, England.
In a press release issued on September 3, 2026, the manufacturer announced its static display at Blenheim Palace, an exclusive automotive and lifestyle event expected to draw 30,000 guests. The exhibition highlights Bell’s strategy to market its VIP configurations directly to high-net-worth demographics outside of traditional aerospace trade shows.
Expanding the UK corporate footprint
The display of the Bell 407GXi follows a recent milestone for the aircraft type in the region. On July 21, 2026, Bell secured its first United Kingdom order for an Instrument Flight Rules (IFR)-configured Bell 407GXi. The aircraft was purchased by corporate operator Glyn Jones for regional business travel, establishing a new operational capability for the platform in the UK market.
Robin Wendling, Bell’s Managing Director for Europe, noted that the boutique nature of the brands at Salon Privé aligns with the manufacturer’s VIP focus.
“Showcasing the Bell 505 and the Bell 407GXi at Salon Privé highlights Bell’s position as a leader in VIP and high-end helicopter travel,” Wendling stated.
Bell 505 fleet milestones
Alongside the 407GXi, Bell is exhibiting the Bell 505 light-single helicopter. The aircraft’s appearance at Blenheim Palace comes shortly after the manufacturer celebrated a major production milestone at the Farnborough International Airshow. On July 20, 2026, Bell delivered its 700th Bell 505 to a private VIP operator.
Since entering service in 2017, the Bell 505 fleet has accumulated approximately 390,000 flight hours across more than 55 countries. The aircraft features Garmin avionics and utilizes the proven Bell 206L4 rotor system, positioning it as a popular entry-level turbine option for private ownership.
AirPro News analysis
We view Bell’s presence at Salon Privé as a calculated pivot toward direct-to-consumer marketing for its light helicopter lines. While events like Farnborough and HAI Heli-Expo remain critical for fleet sales and operator relations, automotive concours events place VIP-configured aircraft directly in front of end-users who possess the capital for private ownership. By positioning the 407GXi and 505 alongside luxury automobiles, Bell is framing its rotorcraft not just as utility transport, but as premium lifestyle assets.
Sources: Bell Textron Inc.
Photo Credit: Bell Textron Inc.
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