The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued the type certificate for the Piper M600 single-engine turbo-prop last Friday.
Piper's new flagship is a PT-6A-powered six-seater that will reach a max cruise speed of 274 KTAS, putting it into the market below the TBM 900/930 and the Cirrus SF50 Vision jet.
"We are delighted to announce the certification of the M600 by the FAA," said Simon Caldecott, Piper Aircraft President and CEO. "With unique and innovative safety features for the single engine turbo prop segment, the competitiveness of the M600 is further enhanced by the aircraft's performance and industry leading operating and acquisition costs."
The M600 maximum range – originally expected to be 1200 nm with IFR reserves – has been increased to a maximum range of 1484 nm at intermediate cruise settings. The target maximum cruise speed of 260 knots has also been extended to 274 KTAS.
The M600 is expected to sell at around US$2.8 million.