Aero-TV Checks Out The Newly Certified Pilatus PC-12 NG

Upgraded Workhorse Includes More Powerful PT-6, Stylish Interior

Part of ANN and Aero-TV's spring-time rites included covering one of the first public outings of the new Pilatus Aircraft PC-12 NG.

Announced at NBAA 2006, Pilatus says the Next Generation program is the latest progression of the popular PC-12 turboprop. Receipt of joint EASA and FAA certification will allow deliveries of the PC-12 NG to begin immediately.

Featuring a number of significant improvements -- including a fully integrated Honeywell Primus Apex avionics system, a completely new cockpit designed by BMW Group DesignworksUSA, and a more powerful Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-67P engine -- the PC-12 NG sets the tone for the market sector, and is expected to broaden the appeal of the stylish workhorse turbine single.

"Since original certification was achieved, the PC-12 has proven itself as a thoroughly reliable and robust aircraft," said Thomas Bosshard, CEO of Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. "With the arrival of the PC-12 NG we are witnessing the natural evolution of a product which continues to lead the field in both operating efficiency and performance."

With the worldwide fleet numbering over 780 aircraft, the PC-12 NG continues to generate strong interest from operators worldwide. As businesses strive to operate as competitively as possible, the PC-12 NG's versatility and low direct operating costs are more pertinent than ever before.

Pilatus Aircraft Ltd was founded in 1939 and is currently world market leader in the manufacture and sale of single-engine turboprop aircraft. It is the only Swiss company that develops and produces private and training aircraft.

FMI: www.pilatus-aircraft.com

Copyright 2008, Aero-News Network, Inc., ALL Rights Reserved.

Category:

News & Politics

Tags:

• nbaa
• bizav
• pilatus
• pc12
• pratt
• whitney
• turboprop
• pilot
• aero-news
• aerospace
• space
• aviation
• aerotv

[SlamDuncDrummer]

@wobano

300+ MPH at 54 gallons per hour and a 2300+ nautical mile range at 28,000 feet for less than half the cost of a CJ3.

It fills a niche and is not hard on the eyes either.

I guess that is why there are other planes out there for people like yourself.

[wobano]

Ugly plane, looks like a platypus

[sky8ryder642]

one of the best aircraft ever

[SaulBasley]

@SlamDuncDrummer you'll find a CJ even though it is a great aircraft hasnt got the same load carrying capability as the PC-12 (or B200) and wont get into the smaller strips that the tubo prop can do. Also i think a CJ1 (which only has 4 seats in the back) isnt that much faster than a PC-12.

[SlamDuncDrummer]

BTW - I LOVE the PC-12, sexy plane. Just was curious.

[SlamDuncDrummer]

Not trying to be rude but what does this offer over something like a CJ? They are priced not too far apart and there is a fairly significant performance differential.

[ALB437]

Könnte man sich den PC-12 in einer ISR Ausführung vorstellen, ein bischen wie der Beechcraft King Air 350?

[youngfart40]

I have heard the NG cockpit is always crashing like windows. There seems to be a software problem.

[tomsolomedia]

We took a PC-12 in 60 days around the world, very nice plane, even for crossing the pacific. It was a little risky though. :-) I look for PC-12 owners doing another worldtrip. See my slideshow.

[calessassracer]

Flat panels finally! Plus 15% more power.