FAA: TBM pilots' emergency handbook is basically fake news!
Published Date: 2/12/2025
Rule
Summary
If you fly a DAHER TBM 700 airplane, listen up! The FAA found that some emergency steps in your pilot handbook can’t be done because of equipment you can’t disconnect from the cockpit. So, starting March 19, 2025, you’ll need to update your handbook with new, safer emergency instructions—no big costs, just safer skies!
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Fixes unsafe emergency procedures to improve safety
The AD addresses emergency procedures that could not be fully done from the cockpit because some equipment cannot be disconnected there. The FAA says this could increase flight crew workload during critical phases and lead to reduced control of the airplane, so the POH change is intended to prevent that risk.
Must update POH with TR 30 within 30 days
If you own or operate a DAHER Model TBM 700 airplane (manufacturer serial numbers 687 through 1491 inclusive), you must revise your Pilot's Operating Handbook by inserting Temporary Revision 30, dated July 2023, within 30 days after March 19, 2025. The TR replaces the procedures "Cabin Electrical Fire or Smoke During Flight" and "Smoke elimination" with a single "Fire or Smoke in Flight" emergency procedure.
Estimated compliance cost per airplane
The FAA estimates the cost to revise the POH is 1 work-hour at $85 per airplane. The rule affects 930 U.S.-registered airplanes, giving a total estimated U.S. operator cost of $79,050.
Pilot with private certificate may perform revision
The owner/operator (pilot) holding at least a private pilot certificate may perform the POH revision and must enter compliance into the airplane maintenance records per 14 CFR 43.9(a) and 91.417(a)(2)(v). The AD treats this handbook revision as an allowable pilot-performed action.
Which airplanes are covered
This AD applies to DAHER Model TBM 700 airplanes with manufacturer serial numbers 687 through 1491 inclusive, certificated in any category. Depending on serial number and options, an affected airplane could carry a trade name that includes a "900" designation (for example TBM 900, TBM 910, TBM 930, TBM 940, or TBM 960).
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