Daher Aircraft today announced the delivery of a new TBM 980 to Ian Blair Fries, M.D., representing the sixth consecutive TBM family aircraft acquired by this long-time owner during a relationship that spans more than two decades.
Dr. Fries is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon and an FAA-qualified HIMS (Senior Human Intervention Motivational Study) aviation medical examiner.
He utilises the TBM in travel to his offices in Vero Beach, Florida and Brick, New Jersey, as well as for patient consultations, speaking engagements and his ongoing commitment to advancing aeromedical education, flying with his wife, Susan, who manages his professional offices.
Recognised for the red carnation that he wears in honour of his patients, Dr. Fries once again selected a distinctive paint scheme for his newest aircraft, which was designed by Craig Barnett, the CEO of Scheme Designers.
The carnation motif is featured on the aircraft’s nose: an emblem that has become closely associated with Dr. Fries’ TBM aircraft and the dedication to his profession.
Nicolas Chabbert, the CEO of Daher Aircraft, said: “Dr. Fries is a highly valued member of the Daher Aircraft aviator community, and his acquisition of the latest TBM 980 version reflects the confidence he places in our airplanes, as well as the strength of our relationship.
“Additionally, his professional insights and passion for aviation continue to inspire our entire team.”
The TBM 980’s delivery to Dr. Fries followed the airplane’s transatlantic ferry flight from Daher Aircraft’s headquarters in Tarbes, France. It marked the 10th TBM 980 to arrive in the United States since the company’s official unveiling of this new version on January 15.
“Having owned TBMs with the previous-generation Garmin 1000 and Garmin 3000 avionics, I’m excited about the Garmin G3000 PRIME as the next significant step in further enhancing a single pilot’s ability to fly the aircraft,” Dr. Fries explained.
