TBMOPA convention draws record number of aircraft, attendees

TBM owners from all over the world met September 22-26 at the Bishops Lodge Resort & Spa in Santa Fe (NM). This event quickly became the largest TBM owner convention to date with over 200 attendees and 70 aircraft on location. In the past, EADS Socata hosted the event, but this is the first year that the convention was hosted by the TBM Owners and Pilots Association with sponsorship from EADS Socata. Previous conventions were held at the Bahamas; Paris, France; Los Cabos, Mexico and Montreal.

The weekend-long event included presentations by EADS Socata and several vendors, with the intent of updating owners about their products, maintenance, fleet status and insurance. Owners hosted seminars on several topics and were able to voice their opinions. A silent auction was held to raise money for the operation of the owners' group.

Stephane Mayer, EADS Socata CEO, was in attendance. "The annual owner's convention is a terrific venue for us to meet directly with our customers and learn first-hand about their ownership experience," said Mayer. "The TBM Owners and Pilots Association has done an outstanding job of promoting and organizing the event this year, carrying on the tradition that started at EADS Socata."

The location for the 2005 TBM Owners convention was announced at Santa Fe. It will take place at Hilton Head (SC) from October 12-14.

FMI: www.tbm700.com