The Pilatus PC-12, manufactured by Pilatus Aircraft of Switzerland, is a highly versatile and reliable single-engine turboprop aircraft designed for both passengers and cargo transportation. Since its inaugural flight in 1991, the PC-12 has earned a strong reputation for its exceptional performance and operational flexibility. Let’s explore some important features of the Pilatus PC-12.
Design and Features
For an aircraft of its class, the pressurized cabin of the PC-12 is surprisingly spacious. In a standard executive configuration, it can hold six to nine passengers; however, it can also hold ten passengers. The cabin’s adaptability allows it to be promptly rearranged for cargo, medevac, or a combination of passenger and cargo use.
Performance
The PC-12, with its powerful Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-67P turboprop engine, is renowned for its outstanding performance. With a range of roughly 1,800 nautical miles (3,330 km) and a maximum cruise speed of about 280 knots (520 km/h), it can be used for a number of missions, such as executive transport, cargo, air ambulance, and government operations.
Avionics
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Over the years, the avionics on the PC-12 have undergone several upgrades. A lot of models come with sophisticated avionics suites like the Honeywell Primus Apex avionics system, which has features like improved communication, sophisticated navigation, and synthetic vision.
Safety Record
The PC-12 is renowned for its excellent safety track record. Its design includes several safety features, such as a sturdy landing gear that enables it to take off and land on short and rough runways.
Operational Flexibility
The PC-12 stands out for its impressive capability to take off and land on short and uneven runways, making it a top choice in areas lacking well-established airport facilities. Its flexibility is further enhanced by its spacious cargo door, which simplifies loading and unloading cargo.
Variants and Upgrades
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Over the years, Pilatus has released multiple versions of the PC-12, each with comfort, performance, and technology enhancements. These include the PC-12 NG (Next Generation) and the PC-12 NGX, which has an even more powerful engine, advanced avionics, and improved cabin comfort.
Price
The price of a Pilatus PC-12 can vary significantly based on the model year, configuration, and any additional features or customizations. The price of a brand new Pilatus PC-12, such as the latest PC-12 NGX model, typically starts at around $5 million and can go higher depending on the level of customization and additional features. This price includes the base model along with standard avionics and interior fittings.
The used Pilatus PC-12 aircraft market is quite active, and prices can range widely depending on the aircraft’s age, condition, flight hours, maintenance history, and avionics upgrades. Older models might be found in the range of $2 million to $4 million, while more recent models or those with significant upgrades and low flight hours can be closer to the price of new models.
Comparisons
The PC-12 is frequently compared to other single-engine turboprops in its class, such as the Cessna Caravan and Beechcraft King Air, even though it usually has a longer range and a spacious cabin than many of its rivals.
The Pilatus PC-12 is truly exceptional due to its impressive performance, incredible versatility, and outstanding safety features. These qualities make it the preferred option for various applications in the single-engine turboprop category.