We meet the Pilatus PC-24, as it gets ready to take off
This week we’re at EBACE in Geneva, Europe’s premier gathering for the business aviation industry. While it’s a great opportunity to meet up with operators, partners and media, it’s the aircraft themselves that are (rightly) grabbing everyone’s attention.
And one that’s got everyone talking this year is the Pilatus PC-24.
The new PC-24 is currently in the final stages of its certification process, and Swiss manufacturer Pilatus has brought one of its three test aircraft here to EBACE. Luckily for us, we’ve had VIP access at the static display to film a video tour (coming soon) of the ‘Super Versatile Jet’.
What makes the Pilatus PC-24 so special?
After the PC-24 was unveiled at EBACE three years ago, its first production run of 84 aircraft sold out within hours. The order book is currently closed and due to reopen again after certification.
The PC-24’s hangar mate, the Pilatus PC-12 propeller aircraft, has already proved a big success story for the Swiss manufacturer over the past few years. And for the PC-24, Pilatus has taken the same durability and versatility and wrapped it up in a bigger, twin-engined jet.
Key to the appeal of the rugged and reliable PC-12 has been its STOL (short take off and landing) ability. The PC-24 has the same attributes – meaning it can access unpaved and even grass runways – but with the extra speed and wider appeal of a jet aircraft.
Another feature Pilatus have retained from the PC-12 is the large cargo door, by the aircraft’s reinforced left wing. This is a first for a business jet, and will be a major marketing differentiator.
The PC-24’s large cabin can be configured as a 6-seat luxury corporate jet – as this test aircraft at EBACE is – with sizeable baggage area and fully-enclosed lavatory. It can also be configured as a 4-seater executive jet, with expanded cargo area.
And of course, its flexible landing capabilities and cargo door will make it an excellent choice for air ambulance and governmental flights – which will use a more open interior.
When will the Pilatus PC-24 be available for charter?
EASA certification and service entry are due in the fourth quarter of 2017, with deliveries planned to follow within two weeks. So we’d expect the PC-24 to become available for charter in the first half of 2018.
With new single-engine turboprop regulations giving greater commercial advantage to the PC-12, and the PC-24 coming to market, 2018 is set to be an exciting year for Pilatus.
To charter a PC-12 or compare aircraft, our 24-hour expert Flight Team are available for advice and pricing. Contact us or call +44 (0)20 7100 6960.
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