[timd]

The Meridian is probably a nice airplane and a fine first choice for someone wanting to step up to turbines. It does have a few of the limitations left over from the Mirage but on the whole I think it is OK. I am very impressed with the Pilatus in spite of the fact that I own and fly a King Air. It is beautifully and solidly constructed and gives every appearance of being a fine airplane. I suspect the design philosophies behind the Meridian, TBM-700 and the Pilatus are different in each case which is not a negative comment but simply and expression about their respective end uses might be.