Business Aviation
Daher Advances Single-Engine Turboprops with TBM 980 and Kodiak 900
Daher delivered 76 aircraft in 2025 and launched the TBM 980 with advanced avionics and the Kodiak 900 utility plane, strengthening its market presence.
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
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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