Arriving in Germany from Daher Aircraft’s U.S. production facility in Sandpoint, Idaho, the Kodiak 900 is displayed at the company’s AERO Friedrichshafen exhibit (Hall A3, Stand #305), where it is joined by the latest member of its fast, efficient TBM product line: the TBM 980, built in Tarbes, France.

The Kodiak 900’s presence at AERO Friedrichshafen marks the start of a multi-month European tour, with planned stops to demonstrate the Kodiak product line’s unique combination of short takeoff and landing (STOL) performance, payload capacity, operational flexibility and low operating costs.

Designed for demanding environments, the turboprop-powered Kodiak 900 and the cornerstone Kodiak 100 are tailored for a full spectrum of operations, especially at low and medium altitudes. Their ability to operate from short runways, off-airport sites and unimproved strips further enhances deployability.

“The Kodiak 900 and Kodiak 100 bring a new level of capability to operators who require both performance and versatility,” said Nicolas Chabbert, the CEO of Daher Aircraft. “Bringing the Kodiak 900 to Europe provides an opportunity to introduce customers to an aircraft that can operate where others cannot – including many grass fields – delivering the reliability and efficiency that the Kodiak family is known for.”

Showcased on Daher AERO Friedrichshafen exhibit stand is the company’s Kodiak 900 Multi-Mission Aircraft (MMA), underscoring the airplane’s adaptability for a full range of multi-role applications.

Launched in 2022 as a larger and faster evolution of the Kodiak 100, the Kodiak 900 features a 3.9-foot (1.18 meter) fuselage stretch, a cruise speed of 210 KTAS and increased useful load, along with a maximum range of approximately 1,130 nautical miles. Operating economics also are improved, with a nine percent reduction in specific fuel consumption – equating to a double-digit advantage compared with competing aircraft.

A distinguishing feature of both the Kodiak 900 and Kodiak 100 are their “discontinuous leading edge” wing design that enhances handling across all flight regimes and provides strong resistance to aerodynamic stalls, including at low speeds and during maneuvering. Their tight turn performance enables operation within a small Area of Responsibility (AOR), comparable to that of a helicopter.

Daher Aircraft continues sustained production of the Kodiak 900 and Kodiak 100 on a shared final assembly line in Sandpoint, Idaho. To support growing demand, a new final assembly line for both the Kodiak and TBM product families will be established at Daher’s facility in Stuart, Florida.

Key features of the Kodiak aircraft family include:

Operability

• 45-foot wingspan for access to narrow airstrips
• Robust landing gear for operations on unprepared terrain
• Up to 10-hour flight duration at 30 gallons per hour (113.5 liters/hour)
• Stable, controllable slow flight down to 75 KTAS

Reliability and efficiency

• Among the lowest direct operating costs in its class
• Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A turboprop engine family
• Garmin G1000 NXi integrated avionics suite

Mission flexibility

• Cruise speeds up to 210 KTAS (Kodiak 900)
• Operational ceiling of 25,000 ft. (7,620 meters)

Cabin and payload

• Spacious interior for mission equipment and crew
• Large cargo door accommodating palletized loads
• High-wing design and large windows for excellent visibility
• Rapid reconfiguration for cargo, passengers or mission systems

Editors’ note: During AERO Friedrichshafen, being held April 22-25, Daher Aircraft is present in Hall A3, Stand #305 at Friedrichshafen Airport.

About Daher (www.daher.com)
As an aircraft manufacturer, industrial company, industrial services provider, and logistics specialist, Daher currently employs 14,500 people, with a revenue of €1.9 billion in 2025. Backed by its family ownership, Daher has been innovation-driven since its founding in 1863. With operations in approximately 15 countries across Europe, North America and Asia, Daher designs and develops value-added solutions for its aerospace and industrial customers and partners.

About Daher Aircraft (www.tbm.aero / www.kodiak.aero)
Daher Aircraft manufactures two families of single-engine turboprop airplanes: the fast, very efficient pressurized TBM in Tarbes, France; and the Kodiak utility aircraft in Sandpoint, Idaho, USA.

These digital solutions for the Kodiak and TBM airplane families provide operators with real-time aircraft data, seamless access to documentation, and direct connectivity with Daher’s support ecosystem.

“With the Me & My Kodiak application’s introduction, and the continued evolution of the Me & My TBM app, Daher Aircraft is advancing its digital resources to enhance connectivity, simplify operations, and support safe flying for the growing Daher aviator community,” explained Nicolas Chabbert, the CEO of Daher Aircraft.

Speaking at Daher Aircraft’s show-opening press conference at the SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo, Chabbert added: “These applications underscore our long-term strategy of integrating advanced digital technologies into aircraft operations, ensuring that pilots and operators benefit from real-time information and direct access to expert support – anytime and anywhere.”

Me & My Kodiak: The new digital companion

Now available in its V1 version, the Me & My Kodiak app offers an initial suite of features:

• Remote Aircraft Status: Real-time remote access to key aircraft parameters, including oil temperature, battery and essential bus voltage, TKS deicing fluid levels, fuel quantity, oxygen pressure, door status, aircraft location and database status. This capability is enabled via Garmin’s PlaneSync connected aircraft management system and the GDL 60 datalink, allowing the Kodiak’s “wake up” from anywhere – enabling pilots to focus on essential preflight inspections when arriving at the aircraft.
• My Docs: Full access to Kodiak technical publications – both online and offline – including Airplane Information Manuals, checklists, maintenance manuals, service bulletins, and more. This ensures that Kodiak operators always have the latest documentation available.
• Direct Support Access: The integrated contact functionality enables immediate connection to the Daher Care customer support team, including rapid Aircraft on Ground (AOG) reporting.

Me & My TBM Version 8: Expanding the application’s capabilities

Originally launched in 2018, the Me & My TBM application has become a widely adopted tool among TBM operators worldwide, with more than 400 users today. In addition to the application’s post-flight data analysis functionality with its focus on stabilized approaches, the new V8 version introduces several significant enhancements:

• Remote Aircraft Status: As with the Me & My Kodiak application, the latest version of the Me & My TBM app incorporates real-time remote monitoring of aircraft data via PlaneSync and the GDL 60 datalink, including fuel levels, oxygen, outside air temperature, battery status, door status, location and database updates.
• Aircraft totals improvements: Enhanced readability and functionality for tracking flight hours, including differentiation between total aircraft hours and ownership-specific hours, as well as pilot-specific usage tracking.
• Enhanced PDF Viewer: A newly embedded PDF viewer improves performance and usability, particularly for large technical documents, thereby delivering a faster and more seamless reading experience.
• Bug fixes and performance enhancements: Continuous improvements have further optimized reliability and user experience.

“The Me & My TBM and Me & My Kodiak applications provide operators with a comprehensive digital environment that supports them before, during, and after each flight,” said Marie Souffez, the Customer and Digital Support Coordinator at Daher Aircraft. “By combining real-time aircraft insights, continuous access to up-to-date documentation, and direct connectivity with Daher’s support teams, these tools enhance operational awareness while simplifying day-to-day aircraft management.”

She noted that the applications are fully integrated in Daher’s Safe Horizons program, applications reflecting the continued commitment to improving safety, efficiency and the overall ownership experience for TBM and Kodiak operators worldwide.

• Editors’ note: Daher Aircraft is present on exhibit stand #MD022-B during the SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo, being held April 14-19 at Florida’s Lakeland Linder International Airport.

About Daher (www.daher.com)
As an aircraft manufacturer, industrial company, industrial services provider, and logistics specialist, Daher currently employs 14,500 people, with a revenue of €1.9 billion in 2025. Backed by its family ownership, Daher has been innovation-driven since its founding in 1863. With operations in approximately 15 countries across Europe, North America and Asia, Daher designs and develops value-added solutions for its aerospace and industrial customers and partners.

About Daher Aircraft (www.tbm.aero / www.kodiak.aero)
Daher Aircraft manufactures two families of single-engine turboprop airplanes: the fast, very efficient pressurized TBM in Tarbes, France; and the Kodiak utility aircraft in Sandpoint, Idaho, USA.

As a long-standing partner in Daher’s global Network, Columbia Aircraft Sales and Columbia Air Services are among the most experienced authorized distributors and service providers for TBM aircraft – a relationship that began in 1990 with the distinction of being the very first TBM distributor.

With this latest agreement, its portfolio expands to include sales and full-service support for the Kodiak in North America across the following territory: Connecticut; Delaware; Maine; Maryland; New Hampshire; New Jersey; New York; Pennsylvania; Rhode Island; Vermont; Virginia; Washington, D.C.; and West Virginia. The announcement was made during Daher Aircraft’s show-opening press conference at the SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo in Lakeland, Florida.

“Columbia Aircraft Sales and Columbia Air Services have consistently set the standard for TBM customers, which is fully aligned with our strategy of delivering long-term value for the growing base of Kodiak and TBM owners/operators,” said Nicolas Chabbert, the CEO of Daher Aircraft. “Adding the ‘go anywhere’ Kodiak multi-mission product line to its portfolio builds on this – pairing our highly capable utility aircraft with a Network partner defined by expertise, reliability and strong customer relationships.”

The approval now enables Columbia Air Services to provide comprehensive factory-authorized support for both Kodiak and TBM aircraft at its Groton, Connecticut headquarters (Groton-New London Airport/KGON), and at the new expansion facility in Martinsburg, West Virginia (Eastern West Virginia Regional Airport/KMRB). This includes maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), avionics upgrades and parts support.

“Expanding our relationship with Daher to include the Kodiak is a natural progression for us,” said Melissa Düzgüner, the CEO and Director of Sales at Columbia Aircraft Sales and Columbia Air Services. “We’ve built a strong foundation supporting the TBM for decades, and we’re excited to bring this same level of service and commitment to Kodiak operators. Daher’s reputation and the strength of its product line give us tremendous confidence as we introduce the Kodiak to our customers.”

She added that the organization’s recently established Martinsburg operation – featuring approximately 19,000 square feet of hangar space – was developed in part to support the new services for Kodiak. This location complements the company’s Groton campus, which includes two hangars of approximately 12,000 square feet each, along with offices and ramp space. Together, they provide comprehensive geographic coverage across Columbia’s U.S. territory – which also extends into Eastern Canada for the TBM. For the TBM/Kodiak distributorship responsibilities, a Columbia Aircraft Sales representative has been relocated from Groton to Martinsburg to provide an on-site presence.

In addition to Columbia Air Services’ maintenance, repair and overhaul capabilities, it operates a full-service avionics shop at the Groton location – and plans are underway to further expand these services to the Martinsburg facility. Columbia Air Services also is in the process of adding float certification to its FAA Part 145 approval, enabling full support for Kodiak aircraft operating on floats.

For the distributorship, Columbia Aircraft Sales has taken delivery of its initial Kodiak 100 from Daher – a Kodiak 100 Series III version. The first of Daher’s larger, faster Kodiak 900s will be received later this year.

• Editors’ note: Daher Aircraft is present on exhibit stand #MD022-B during the SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo, being held April 14-19 at Florida’s Lakeland Linder International Airport.

About Daher (www.daher.com)
As an aircraft manufacturer, industrial company, industrial services provider, and logistics specialist, Daher currently employs 14,500 people, with a revenue of €1.9 billion in 2025. Backed by its family ownership, Daher has been innovation-driven since its founding in 1863. With operations in approximately 15 countries across Europe, North America and Asia, Daher designs and develops value-added solutions for its aerospace and industrial customers and partners.

About Daher Aircraft (www.tbm.aero / www.kodiak.aero)
Daher Aircraft manufactures two families of single-engine turboprop airplanes: the fast, very efficient pressurized TBM in Tarbes, France; and the Kodiak utility aircraft in Sandpoint, Idaho, USA.

Both the TBM 980 and Kodiak 100 to be displayed at SUN ‘n FUN (exhibit stand #MD022-B) will serve as Daher Aircraft’s customer demonstrator airplanes, and are configured in the company’s latest custom paint scheme – named Tehuano after a powerful mountain wind in southern Mexico.

They represent Daher Aircraft’s two complementary in-production product lines: the fast and efficient TBM 980 and TBM 960, built in Tarbes, France; along with the Kodiak 100 Series III and the larger Kodiak 900 version, produced in the U.S. at Sandpoint Idaho.

TBM 980: advanced avionics and passenger comfort

The TBM 980 confirms Daher Aircraft’s continued leadership in the single-engine turboprop general aviation and business aviation segments. Unveiled in January at the company’s Tarbes headquarters and final assembly line, this latest member of the pressurized six-seat TBM aircraft family is a confirmed commercial success – with production slot availability in 2027, and 10 aircraft already delivered to the U.S. market.

Living up to its “Fly Differently” tagline, the TBM 980 integrates Garmin’s third-generation G3000® PRIME avionics suite, delivering a next-generation piloting experience with enhanced processing power and improved ergonomics. The touchscreen-controlled flight deck with three 14-inch edge-to-edge interactive displays ensures seamless control of flight functions, with significant improvements in screen and image quality. Pilot workload is reduced through customizable presets and a streamlined user interface.

In addition to its cockpit innovation, the TBM 980 incorporates a range of cabin refinements designed to elevate passenger comfort, including 100-watt USB-C ports for the charging of mobile devices, an upgraded passenger display with enroute flight data, and a factory-installed terminal interface for Starlink Mini satellite-based internet connectivity.

The TBM 980 is the sixth aircraft in the TBM 900-series launched by Daher since acquiring the product line in 2014.

Kodiak 100: versatility and multi-mission capability

Joining the TBM 980 at SUN ‘n FUN is one of the latest Kodiak 100 Series III airplanes from Daher Aircraft’s Sandpoint final assembly line and production facility, representing the Kodiak’s renowned ability to perform reliably and efficiently in even the most challenging environments.

The Kodiak family – comprised of the 10-seat unpressurized Kodiak 100 and the larger, faster Kodiak 900 – continues to evolve with ongoing enhancements introduced by Daher Aircraft for its avionics and systems. Recognized for its ability to support diverse operations, the Kodiak is utilized worldwide in assignments from humanitarian support and multi-mission operations to corporate/regional transportation and in private ownership.

After acquiring the Kodiak program in 2019, Daher Aircraft made significant investments in the Sandpoint operation, strengthening capabilities and resources for its parallel production of Kodiak 100s and Kodiak 900s.

SUN ‘n FUN press conference and digital innovation launch

Daher Aircraft will officially open its SUN ‘n FUN participation with a press conference on Tuesday, April 14 at 10:00 a.m. on its exhibit stand. The briefing, led by CEO Nicolas Chabbert, is to include the latest program updates for the TBM and Kodiak product lines.

It also will serve as the venue for Daher Aircraft’s introduction of the new “Me & My Kodiak” cloud-based application. This digital platform extends the company’s connected aircraft ecosystem, building on its “Me & My TBM” app – which will be showcased at SUN ‘n FUN in the latest V8 version, further advancing the user-focused digital experience that Daher Aircraft launched in 2018.

Additionally, a status report will be provided during the press conference on the construction of Daher Aircraft’s new North American final assembly line (FAL) for the TBM and Kodiak, which will be co-located at the Daher Group’s existing aerostructures facility in Stuart, Florida.

Editors’ note: Daher Aircraft will be present on exhibit stand #MD022-B during the SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo, being held April 14-19 at Florida’s Lakeland Linder International Airport.

About Daher (www.daher.com)
As an aircraft manufacturer, industrial company, industrial services provider, and logistics specialist, Daher currently employs 14,500 people, with a revenue of €1.9 billion in 2025. Backed by its family ownership, Daher has been innovation-driven since its founding in 1863. With operations in approximately 15 countries across Europe, North America and Asia, Daher designs and develops value-added solutions for its aerospace and industrial customers and partners.

About Daher Aircraft (www.tbm.aero / www.kodiak.aero)
Daher Aircraft manufactures two families of single-engine turboprop airplanes: the fast, very efficient pressurized TBM in Tarbes, France; and the Kodiak utility aircraft in Sandpoint, Idaho, USA.

Exhibiting at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta during the March 10-12 event, Daher Aircraft is to highlight how its turboprop-powered Kodiak serves as a “force multiplier” for helicopter-focused operations, significantly enhancing mission capability while reducing overall operational costs.

“As agencies increasingly seek greater endurance, along with extended coverage and more adaptable missions, the Kodiak 100 and Kodiak 900 offer compelling solutions with their persistent surveillance capabilities,” explained Nicolas Chabbert, the CEO of Daher Aircraft.

Daher acquired the multi-role Kodiak in 2019, making a long-term commitment to this product line by enhancing production resources at the Sandpoint, Idaho industrial facility/ final assembly line; as well as significantly evolving and improving the airplane family – backed by reinforced customer support through a global network already established for the company’s TBM turboprop-powered aircraft.

Since the acquisition, Daher Aircraft introduced the improved Series III variant of the cornerstone Kodiak 100 version, and launched the larger, faster Kodiak 900. The company also intensified its focus on multi-mission markets, including law enforcement and public service customers, supported by the development of in-house systems integration capabilities. Today, approximately one-third of annual Kodiak sales are to multi-mission customers.

The Kodiak’s ability to accommodate a full range of equipment for its air support role is underscored by Daher’s Kodiak 900 Multi-Mission Aircraft (MMA) demonstrator, integrating a wing strut-mounted system capable of supporting up to a 15-inch-class sensor turret, which is controlled from a full-scale operator’s console in the cabin.

Kodiak 900 MMA operations that supported back-to-back felony arrests

Daher Aircraft validated the Kodiak 900 MMA’s capabilities during an on-site briefing at a law enforcement agency in the western United States, which led to two felony arrests on the same day.

Paul Carelli, Daher Aircraft’s Senior Director of Multi Missions and Business Development for the Americas, said this began when the visiting Daher Aircraft flight crew was asked to assist in an urgent call for support. Rapidly deploying with one of the agency’s officers aboard the airplane, the Kodiak 900 MMA located the suspect vehicle within 52 seconds and maintained visual contact until the successful apprehension. Midway through this operation, the agency’s own helicopter returned to its home base for refueling, while the Kodiak maintained uninterrupted surveillance.

Later the same day, the Kodiak 900 MMA provided persistent overwatch during a high-speed vehicle pursuit involving a felony suspect. The Kodiak 900 MMA once again delivered precise visual support and tracking, remaining on-station when the agency’s helicopter needed to break off for refueling.

The Kodiak 900 MMA’s operating altitude at 7,000-10,000 feet during these two flights ensured its discretion, while reducing the need for complex airspace coordination that is typical of low altitude helicopter operations in congested metropolitan areas. The higher operating altitudes also enabled the Kodiak 900 MMA to fly over such areas as airport runway approach/departure corridors, where the presence of rotorcraft often is restricted.

“This experience was a real eye-opener for the law enforcement agency,” Carelli added.

Excellent endurance and low hourly operating costs

The Kodiak aircraft family’s endurance of seven to eight hours – and up to 9.5 hours in certain configurations – offers significantly longer on-station time than helicopters. Its excellent handling qualities throughout the flight envelope, particularly at slower speeds of 85-110 knots, are combined with a tight turning radius to provide a highly effective, steady platform that can be flown by aviators ranging from higher-time flight officers to those with less piloting experience.

From a cost perspective, the Kodiak offers meaningful advantages. Average direct operating costs are approximately $400 per hour, including fuel, with potential for lower costs under certain Part 91 maintenance programs. This is substantially less than the typical hourly expense for helicopters.

“Operationally and economically, the Kodiak 100 and Kodiak 900 are extremely effective aircraft,” Carelli said. “They provide agencies with extended surveillance capability at a fraction of the cost of helicopters, while integrating seamlessly into their existing aviation units’ ground infrastructure.”

Daher Aircraft’s expanding customer base of multi-mission operators

During the VERTICON 2026 show, Daher Aircraft will outline the growing number of law enforcement and public service customers for the Kodiak aircraft family, including:

• New York State Police: Acquiring four Kodiak 100s to join the agency’s helicopter fleet beginning this summer, the aircraft will feature advanced mission equipment – including night vision capability;
• Virginia State Police: Operating three Kodiak 100s within the agency’s aviation unit, joining its helicopter resources;
• Missouri Highway Patrol: In addition to its distinction of becoming the first Kodiak 900 multi-mission operator, the Highway Patrol’s aircraft marked Daher’s initial in-house system integration for a public safety customer;
• Maine Marine Patrol bureau: Equipped with amphibious floats for operations from both water and land, its Kodiak 100 is deployed in missions that vary from commercial fishing regulatory enforcement, maritime security details and search & rescue to the offshore monitoring of endangered Northern Right Whales.

Editors’ note: Daher Aircraft will be present at VERTICON 2026 on the show’s “VERTICON Connect” exhibit stand (Booth #B2002).

About Daher (www.daher.com)
Daher is an aircraft manufacturer, industrialist, industrial services provider, and logistics specialist, employing more than 14,000 people with revenues of €1.8 billion in 2024. With a family shareholding structure, Daher has been innovation-driven since its founding in 1863. With operations in about 15 countries across Europe, North America, and Asia, Daher designs and develops value-added solutions for its aerospace and industrial clients and partners.

About Daher Aircraft (www.tbm.aero / www.kodiak.aero)

Daher Aircraft manufactures two families of single-engine turboprop airplanes: the fast, very efficient pressurized TBM in Tarbes, France; and the Kodiak utility aircraft in Sandpoint, Idaho, USA.

A total of 76 airplanes were delivered by Daher Aircraft during the year: 51 TBM 960s were from the Tarbes production site in southwest France; while 25 Kodiaks were provided from the company’s U.S. industrial facility at Sandpoint, Idaho, with this total involving both the cornerstone Kodiak 100 and the larger Kodiak 900 versions.

“Our teams remained fully mobilized through the final days of the year with one clear priority: delivering for our customers,” explained Daher Aircraft CEO Nicolas Chabbert. “Their efforts underscored Daher Aircraft’s capacity to stay focused on execution and customer commitments, especially as conditions evolved during the year.”

Among the 2025 highlights was the 600th delivery of a TBM 900-series aircraft, confirming this category’s distinction as the most popular since the TBM airplane family’s service entry in 1990. The current top-of-the-line TBM 960 version benefits from Daher’s application of digital power, featuring a dual-channel digital Engine and Propeller Electronic Control System (EPECS); as well as the TBM e-copilot® functions with an icing protection system; flight envelope monitoring, and the HomeSafe emergency autoland system.

Daher Aircraft’s 2025 deliveries included key achievements in the multi-mission segment for both the TBM and Kodiak. The Canadian-based Conair Group received its second and third TBM 960s as “birddog” airplanes for support operations to fight wildfires. In the highly demanding “birddog” role, the TBM 960s are continuously flown over a fire to monitor the affected area, assess risks, and strategize airtanker drops of water/retardant. During the introductory service in the 2025 fire season, the TBM 960s demonstrated their capability and reliability while deployed by Conair for aerial firefighting in British Columbia.

Overall, the top geographical markets for TBM deliveries continued to be North and South America, with more than 75 percent of the total going to these regions during 2025. Europe accounted for 23 percent of the 2025 volume, with 12 aircraft delivered.

During the previous 12 months, Kodiak deliveries by Daher Aircraft once again confirmed the significant demand for these airplanes in multi-mission roles, representing 30 percent of the year’s total. The majority was for law enforcement agencies, with customers taking deliveries of Kodiak 100s that included the Virginia State Police, New York State Police, and San Jose Police Department. A Kodiak 900 was delivered to the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office in the state of Arizona, while the first Kodiak 900 version for firefighting support operations was accepted by the Montana Department of Natural Resources.

The Kodiak 100 entered service in 2008 and currently is produced by Daher Aircraft in the enhanced Kodiak 100 Series III version. The larger and faster Kodiak 900 was introduced by Daher in 2022.

Daher Aircraft expanded its international presence during 2025 with the establishment of a Brazilian operation based in São Paulo, marking a key step in the long-term strategy to support and expand the presence of TBM and Kodiak aircraft in Brazil and across Latin America.

As of December 31, 2025, a total of 1,294 TBMs and 390 Kodiaks had been delivered worldwide, with the global fleet accumulating approximately three million flight hours.

About Daher (www.daher.com)
Daher is an aircraft manufacturer, industrialist, industrial services provider, and logistics specialist, employing more than 14,000 people with revenues of €1.8 billion in 2024. With a family shareholding structure, Daher has been innovation-driven since its founding in 1863. With operations in about 15 countries across Europe, North America, and Asia, Daher designs and develops value-added solutions for its aerospace and industrial clients and partners.

About Daher Aircraft (www.tbm.aero / www.kodiak.aero)
Daher Aircraft manufactures two families of single-engine turboprop airplanes: the fast, very efficient pressurized TBM in Tarbes, France; and the Kodiak utility aircraft in Sandpoint, Idaho, USA.

This trans-Atlantic initiative offers hands-on experience for four selected students – two from North America and two from Europe – by providing industry exposure with a leading manufacturer of general aviation airplanes through direct interaction with managers, workers, pilots and aircraft owners/operators.

The selected students will have eight-week assignments in their areas of identified interest at two Daher Aircraft facilities: North American interns will be assigned to the company’s Tarbes, France headquarters and production facility for TBM airplanes; while the European interns are to be based at the company’s Sandpoint, Idaho operation in the U.S., where Kodiak airplanes are produced.

All four students will then support Daher’s team during the company’s participation at the annual summertime EAA AirVenture gathering in Oshkosh, Wisconsin – gaining exposure to all aspects of aviation while attending the world’s largest fly-in and air show event.

Travel, living expenses and lodging costs are covered by the internship.

“General aviation continues to evolve rapidly, and it’s essential that we inspire the next generation to chart its future,” said Daher Aircraft CEO Nicolas Chabbert. “Whether it’s advancing sustainability, rethinking global supply chains, or cultivating a broader pool of skilled talent, today’s students will shape tomorrow’s solutions. The internship with GAMA provides an exceptional insight into an industry in transformation.”

James Viola, the GAMA President and CEO, added: “Our joint internship’s success demonstrates the value of exposing students to the breadth of careers in general aviation. The professionalism and drive shown by the past years’ interns – including one who has now joined Daher Aircraft as an apprentice – underscores how immersive experiences can help strengthen the sector’s global talent pipeline.”

Internship applicants should be 21 to 24 years of age, with U.S., Canadian or European citizenship, and enrolled as a full-time student pursuing an associate, undergraduate or graduate degree. They will need to demonstrate an interest in an aeronautical career for engineering, flying, maintenance, manufacturing or marketing – among other areas. Selections will be based on the following submittals from the internship candidates:

• A resume and a mandatory cover letter explaining why the applicant is the optimum candidate for the experience, supported by examples of interests and achievements; and
• A 40-second video introducing the candidate and describing his/her expectations for the internship.

Interested students can apply via the following links: the GAMA-Daher French internship experience for North American students, or: the GAMA-Daher U.S. internship experience for European students; or via e-mail to: w.ferreira@daher.com.

Deadline for submissions is December 28, 2025. The selections for this year’s internship will be announced by Daher and GAMA at the SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo on April 14 in Lakeland, Florida.

About GAMA – www.gama.aero
GAMA is an international trade association representing over 140 of the world’s leading manufacturers of general aviation airplanes and rotorcraft, engines, avionics, components and related services. GAMA’s members also operate repair stations, fixed based operations, pilot and maintenance training facilities and manage fleets of aircraft.

About Daher – www.daher.com / www.tbm.aero / www.kodiak.aero
Daher is an aircraft manufacturer, industrialist, industrial services provider, and logistics specialist, employing more than 14,000 people with revenues of €1.8 billion in 2024. With a family shareholding structure, Daher has been innovation-driven since its founding in 1863. With operations in about 15 countries across Europe, North America, and Asia, Daher designs and develops value-added solutions for its aerospace and industrial clients and partners.

Daher’s Aircraft Division manufactures two families of single-engine turboprop airplanes: the fast and efficient pressurized TBM in Tarbes, France; and the Kodiak utility aircraft in Sandpoint, Idaho, USA.

The Kodiak 900 retains the Kodiak 100’s remarkable qualities as a “go anywhere” airplane, while marking a further evolution through its fuselage length extension of 1.19 m (3.9 ft) for more passenger room and cargo space, a cruise speed increase to 210 KTAS, a greater useful load, and a range extension to 1,129 nm (2,090 km).

Operating economics of the Kodiak 900 also have been improved, with a nine percent reduction in specific fuel consumption – a double-digit gain when compared to competitors. These improvements reduce the cost-per-seat-mile and direct operating costs for commercial operators.

“With Brazil’s airworthiness certification, the Kodiak 900 now joins our Kodiak 100 to meet the country’s full scope of transportation needs,” explained Daher Aircraft CEO Nicolas Chabbert. “These aircraft are perfectly suited for everything from serving the agriculture, farming, construction and public safety sectors to corporate travel, regional airline modernization and utility missions such as humanitarian operations and parachute jumping.”

Chabbert noted that a growing fleet of Kodiak 100s already are operating in Brazil, along with an established customer base for Daher Aircraft’s fast and efficient TBM airplane family.

“Both the Kodiak 900 and Kodiak 100 share the same sturdy design and excellent handling characteristics – including their short takeoff and landing capabilities – as well as resistance to stalls and spins,” said Paulo C. Olenscki, the Executive Director of Daher Aircraft’s Executive Brazilian operation. “Equipped with a robust fixed landing gear, the Kodiak 900 and Kodiak 100 are designed to operate from off-airport sites ranging from remote backcountry strips to grass and gravel runways.”

The Kodiak 900’s stretched fuselage provides a total cabin volume increase of 20 percent to 309 cubic feet (8.75 cubic meters). It features a 10-seat layout that couples Daher’s expertise in refined, luxurious interiors for its TBM aircraft family with the Kodiak’s rugged heritage, creating a cabin that is both versatile and well-appointed.

With new multi-directional Summit+ passenger seats, the Kodiak 900’s interior can be arranged in various configurations: from a double club layout to an all-forward-facing orientation. The seats are easily removable to maximize cabin space and payload capacity.

The Kodiak 900 is powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada’s 900-shaft horsepower PT6A-140A turboprop engine, which is tailored for the utility aircraft market and optimized for highly demanding conditions. This engine delivers the best “hot and high” performance in its class, and powers a five-blade Hartzell composite propeller with a low 1,900 rpm setting that enables operations in strictly regulated noise sensitive areas.

Garmin’s G1000 NXi integrated avionics suite – standard on both the Kodiak 900 and Kodiak 100 – features high-resolution glass displays and an advanced autopilot. The GDL 60 datalink and PlaneSync technology introduce a fully connected-aircraft capability, enabling rapid wireless downloads of navigation and database updates, automatic database logging for simplified flight and engine-performance tracking, and remote aircraft “wake-up” functionality.

The Kodiak 900 was certified by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration in 2022, and received its European Aviation Safety Agency validation in 2023.

Sustained production of the Kodiak 900 and Kodiak 100 is continuing in parallel at Daher Aircraft’s Sandpoint, Idaho industrial facility. Since acquiring the Kodiak product line in 2019, the company has invested millions of dollars to enhance manufacturing resources as well as to evolve the aircraft family’s avionics and systems. Daher Aircraft established a Brazilian operation in São Paulo earlier this year to support and expand the presence of the TBM and Kodiak aircraft families in Brazil and across Latin America.

About Daher (www.daher.com)
Daher is an aircraft manufacturer, industrialist, industrial services provider, and logistics specialist, employing more than 14,000 people with revenues of €1.8 billion in 2024. With a family shareholding structure, Daher has been innovation-driven since its founding in 1863. With operations in about 15 countries across Europe, North America, and Asia, Daher designs and develops value-added solutions for its aerospace and industrial clients and partners.

The Daher Aircraft division manufactures two families of single-engine turboprop airplanes: the fast, very efficient pressurized TBM in Tarbes, France; and the Kodiak utility aircraft in Sandpoint, Idaho, USA.

The airlift utilized a Daher Aircraft-owned Kodiak 100 to transport equipment along with two U.S. Forest Service (USFS) contractor engineers and three Recreational Aviation Foundation (RAF) volunteers during flights to a total of seven locations across Idaho.

Staged out of the historic Moose Creek Ranger Station airstrip (1U1), these missions involved 14 landings at backcountry locations that serve as critical access points for the USFS in firefighting, forest health monitoring, search & rescue, and recreational oversight.

“Our Kodiak aircraft family is uniquely designed to meet the rigorous demands of such deployments, bringing short takeoff and landing performance, robust cargo capacity and excellent low-speed handling qualities together with rugged reliability,” said Daher CEO Nicolas Chabbert while speaking to journalists today at the NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) in Las Vegas, Nevada.

According to Chabbert, this latest collaboration with the Recreational Aviation Foundation is the eighth such joint effort during the past four years, underscoring Daher Aircraft’s dedication to supporting backcountry aviation in the United States.

The Kodiak’s large and easily reconfigurable cabin played an important role in the mission’s success, with its passenger seats removed and reinstalled as necessary when carrying the USFS contract engineers and RAF volunteers, along with a total of 12 firepits sourced by the Forest Service – each weighing approximately 80 pounds.

The four-day deployment involved airstrip surveys, surface condition assessments and deliveries of the fire pits with flights performed from the Moose Creek field base to Cayuse Creek (C64), Dixie (A05), Fish Lake (S92), Magee (S77), Orogrande (75C) and Wilson Bar (C48).

“We flew to extremely remote locations where high elevations, short field lengths and blind approaches require an airplane that guarantees both performance and flexibility,” explained Paul Carelli, Daher Aircraft’s Senior Director of Multi-Mission Aircraft and Business Development for the Americas. “The Kodiak’s short takeoff and landing capabilities, slow approach speeds, and the designed-in resistance to stalls and spins make it ideal for these missions.”

Carelli added that the Kodiak 100 – along with Daher’s larger, faster Kodiak 900 – are perfectly suited for such challenging airfields (several of which are labeled on the navigation charts as “hazardous”), even when the aircraft are fully loaded with personnel and equipment.

“These 10-seat turboprop-powered airplanes are in the 7,000-8,000-lb. maximum takeoff weight categories, and they handle such 1,500-foot airstrips as Wilson Bar with no problem,” he noted. “The Kodiak 100 and Kodiak 900 carry much higher payloads into the backcountry than smaller aircraft, and there are no others in their category that can match them.”

In citing an example of the challenging operating conditions faced during the recent deployment, Carelli said the Fish Lake airstrip has a posted sign warning that five aircraft have crashed into the lake in past takeoff accidents.

Editors’ note: Daher Aircraft is present at the NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE), on October 14-15, where the company is exhibiting the TBM 960 and Kodiak 100 in the static display area of Nevada’s Henderson Executive Airport (Exhibit #AC23).

About Daher (www.daher.com)
Daher is an aircraft manufacturer, industrialist, industrial services provider, and logistics specialist, employing more than 14,000 people with revenues of €1.8 billion in 2024. With a family shareholding structure, Daher has been innovation-driven since its founding in 1863. With operations in about 15 countries across Europe, North America, and Asia, Daher designs and develops value-added solutions for its aerospace and industrial clients and partners.

The Daher Aircraft division manufactures two families of single-engine turboprop airplanes: the fast, very efficient pressurized TBM in Tarbes, France; and the Kodiak utility aircraft in Sandpoint, Idaho, USA.

Joining the Network are Silver Sky Aviation in Wasilla, Alaska for the Kodiak; along with Victory Lane Aviation in North Carolina and Synergy Flight Center in Bloomington, Illinois for the TBM.

“Expanding our customer support Network and reinforcing its capacity are strategic priorities as TBM and Kodiak fleets continue to grow,” said Nicolas Chabbert, the CEO of Daher Aircraft. “By partnering with experienced service providers, we’re strengthening our ability to support U.S. operators where and when they need it.”

Silver Sky Aviation’s capabilities range from airframe inspections to heavy structural repairs and complex modifications for commercial operators and government agencies across Alaska. From its operation at Wasilla Airport (PAWS), situated north of Anchorage, this service center offers maintenance and repair support for Kodiak 100s and Kodiak 900s operating in Alaska – as well as for Kodiaks that transit the state, including U.S. government agency aircraft which perform wildlife surveys and environmental monitoring

Among the current activities at Silver Sky Aviation are an annual inspection for the first Kodiak 900 to be based in Alaska, along with warranty-related work on an earlier production Kodiak 100.

Victory Lane Aviation has operations in North Carolina at Concord-Padgett Regional Airport (KJQF) as well as Charlotte Douglas International Airport (KCLT), with a coverage area that spans North and South Carolina, Virginia, Tennessee and Georgia. It provides comprehensive maintenance from repairs to major inspections and overhauls. Daher Aircraft brought Victory Lane Aviation into the customer support Network after this Service Center demonstrated its responsiveness – including the capability to handle AOG (Aircraft on Ground) situations for TBM owners/operators.

Synergy Flight Center at Central Illinois Regional Airport (KBMI) is an authorized TBM Service Center that operates under Muncie Aviation. It brings additional maintenance and repair capacity for Muncie Aviation, which has a coverage area that includes the states of Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, Ohio and Kentucky – and is one of the longest-standing members in Daher Aircraft’s Network of service centers for both the TBM and Kodiak.

Editors’ note: Daher Aircraft is present at the NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE), on October 14-15, where the company is exhibiting the TBM 960 and Kodiak 100 in the static display area of Nevada’s Henderson Executive Airport (Exhibit #AC23).

About Daher (www.daher.com)
Daher is an aircraft manufacturer, industrialist, industrial services provider, and logistics specialist, employing more than 14,000 people with revenues of €1.8 billion in 2024. With a family shareholding structure, Daher has been innovation-driven since its founding in 1863. With operations in about 15 countries across Europe, North America, and Asia, Daher designs and develops value-added solutions for its aerospace and industrial clients and partners.

The Daher Aircraft division manufactures two families of single-engine turboprop airplanes: the fast, very efficient pressurized TBM in Tarbes, France; and the Kodiak utility aircraft in Sandpoint, Idaho, USA.

This entity will provide business development and operational support for Daher Aircraft’s TBM and Kodiak airplanes – both of which offer modern and highly efficient solutions for business, regional transportation and personal travel needs in the dynamic Brazilian market. “The establishment of Daher Aircraft in Brazil strengthens our ability to directly support customers and grow our footprint in the region,” said Nicolas Chabbert, CEO of Daher’s Aircraft Division, during the company’s press briefing at the NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) in Las Vegas, Nevada. “With the appointment of a highly experienced leadership team, we are well-positioned to serve our TBM and Kodiak aircraft operators and build new partnerships throughout Brazil.”

Chabbert announced the naming of Paulo Cesar Olenscki as the Executive Director for Daher Aircraft’s Brazilian operation, along with Rodrigo Cendon as the Customer Relations Director. Together, they bring decades of experience in the Brazilian aviation sector, with expertise in management, certification, technical operations, sales, business development and customer engagement.

Paulo Olenscki developed his expertise while serving in executive positions and with operational responsibilities for aircraft engineering, certification, flight testing and aircraft modification, as well as working with Brazilian and international airworthiness authorities on defining and establishing certification standards.

His career included the role as the Executive Director at Algar Aviation, where Olenscki implemented a new business strategy using management tools that resulted in a significant improvement in the sales of TBM aircraft in Brazil.

At Brazil’s Embraer aerospace company, his role involved coordinating multiple certification programs, such as the E-Jet airliner project – playing a significant part in expanding Embraer’s market reach. Furthering his role in the global regulatory sphere, Olenscki represented Embraer at the FAA ExCom (Federal Aviation Administration Executive Committee) and in such high-level advisory committees as the FAA Aviation Regulatory Advisory Committee (ARAC) and the European Safety Standards Consultative Committee (SSCC), helping shape future aviation regulations. He acted as a consultant in the creation of Brazil’s ANAC national civil aviation agency, which was a fundamental step for the development of Embraer and the entire Brazilian aviation industry.

In the field of flight testing, he conducted a wide range of critical tests on various aircraft, logging more than 1,000 flight test hours – including serving as Flight Test Engineer and Certification Program Coordinator at the Brazilian ANAC civil aviation authority on crucial development projects for both the Brazilian government and Embraer. Olenscki participated in highly complex certification campaigns and projects, such as the complete flight test certification for the Embraer 145 regional jet and the inflight investigations of icing conditions on the Embraer 120 turboprop-powered commuter airliner, along with definition of the Embraer ERJ 170-series regional jet’s innovative fly-by-wire control system.

Rodrigo Cendon brings more than 20 years of experience in Brazil’s executive aviation industry, with a solid background in customer support, budgeting, and billing. Throughout his career, he developed deep expertise in the executive aviation and agribusiness sectors, combining strong technical knowledge in aircraft management with a proven ability to build lasting client relationships and drive business development across leading aerospace organizations.

At Algar S.A., Cendon was the Sales Manager for Brazil, where he was responsible for sales and after-sales operations of TBM aircraft. At this previous dealer for the TBM product line in Brazil, he played a key role in promoting the brand, managing an extensive client portfolio, and overseeing the Embraer Authorized Service Center. His work with major clients in the Brazilian agribusiness segment helped strengthen Daher’s presence in one of the country’s most strategic aviation markets.

Cendon later joined TAM Aviação Executiva, where he served as the Customer Support Manager in managing a portfolio of over 100 corporate clients. Previously, he built a strong foundation at Embraer, spending more than a decade managing post-sale operations for executive aviation customers and supporting a fleet of over 120 aircraft across Brazil.

Daher Aircraft’s pressurized six-seat TBM is ideally suited for business and personal travel throughout the Latin American continent, providing the ultimate turboprop-powered airplane for business and personal travel across Brazil and beyond. Recognized for both its speed and efficiency, the latest TBM 960 version has a maximum cruise speed of 610 km/h (330 kts.) and a maximum 3,204-kilometer (1,730-nautical mile) range.

The 10-seat Kodiak 100 and Kodiak 900 airplanes from Daher Aircraft also are perfectly tailored for the Brazilian market, offering modern, rugged, comfortable and simple-to-fly platforms that are flexible and sustainable – while featuring easy convertibility to accommodate passengers, cargo and mission systems. The large pallet-sized door facilitates the loading/unloading of passengers, stretchers and cargo.

Editors’ note: Daher Aircraft is present at the NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE), on October 14-15, where the company is exhibiting the TBM 960 and Kodiak 100 in the static display area of Nevada’s Henderson Executive Airport (Exhibit #AC23).

About Daher (www.daher.com)
Daher is an aircraft manufacturer, industrialist, industrial services provider, and logistics specialist, employing more than 14,000 people with revenues of €1.8 billion in 2024. With a family shareholding structure, Daher has been innovation-driven since its founding in 1863.

With operations in about 15 countries across Europe, North America, and Asia, Daher designs and develops value-added solutions for its aerospace and industrial clients and partners.

The Daher Aircraft division manufactures two families of single-engine turboprop airplanes: the fast, very efficient pressurized TBM in Tarbes, France; and the Kodiak utility aircraft in Sandpoint, Idaho, USA.

“Being recognized as the best – not only in our category, but across the various airframe manufacturers – is a testament to the dedication of our Daher Care global support teams and the unwavering focus on operational excellence,” said Nicolas Chabbert, the CEO of Daher Aircraft. “I personally want to thank our customers for their continued loyalty, and we are committed to earning this trust every year.”

In the Pro Pilot assessment, Daher Aircraft topped the turboprop category for the fifth consecutive year. It netted first place ratings in all seven categories: company response time, spares availability, cost of parts, speed in AOG (Aircraft on Ground) service, technical manuals, technical representatives, and service satisfaction.

The Pro Pilot survey marked its 35th year in 2025, and this latest evaluation was the third time that both the TBM and Kodiak airplane families were judged by operators. Daher acquired the utility/multi-mission Kodiak product line in 2019, joining the fast and efficient TBM.

Operators’ feedback quoted in the 2025 Pro Pilot survey included: “Daher staff has been very responsive to AOG issues and provides fantastic overall support for our TBM 850;” and: “Have received outstanding support from Daher and its service center network. The product support team is highly responsive and very competent.”

For the AIN survey, 2025 was the first year that Daher Aircraft qualified for inclusion in this publication’s product support evaluation. Daher Aircraft’s mark of 9.65 in aircraft reliability was the highest in any of AIN’s survey categories this year, and the company also led the turboprop-powered airplane segment in parts availability, cost of parts, AOG response, technical manuals, and technical representatives.

In reviewing the 2025 survey’s results, AIN’s writeup on Daher Aircraft noted that the company continues to innovate and invest in applications for users, including its “Me & My TBM” and “Me & My Kodiak” apps – which collect and process flight data to enhance aircraft monitoring, diagnostics and maintenance. AIN’s review also highlighted the introduction of Daher Aircraft’s Safe Horizons flight safety program – including e-learning – as part of the emphasis on providing owners/operators with the knowledge and tools to maintain and fly their aircraft at the highest levels of safety.

Raphaël Maitre, the Vice President of Customer Support at Daher Aircraft, stated: “The AIN and Pro Pilot survey results are a direct outcome of Daher Aircraft’s long-term strategy to invest in digital tools, training initiatives and global infrastructure to support our aircraft in the field.”

He added: “Through the expertise and commitment of our authorized service centers, along with the scope of AOG support and user-centric innovations such as the Aviator Marketplace, our goal is simple: deliver unmatched service quality to each owner and operator, while striving for continual improvement.”

About Daher (www.daher.com)
Daher is an aircraft manufacturer, industrialist, industrial services provider, and logistics specialist, employing more than 14,000 people with revenues of €1.8 billion in 2024. With a family shareholding structure, Daher has been innovation-driven since its founding in 1863. With operations in some 15 countries across Europe, North America, and Asia, Daher designs and develops value-added solutions for its aerospace and industrial clients and partners.

The Daher Aircraft division manufactures two families of single-engine turboprop airplanes: the fast, very efficient pressurized TBM in Tarbes, France; and the Kodiak utility aircraft in Sandpoint, Idaho, USA.