Pilatus Aircraft is bringing the PC-12 PRO to market as the latest version of its popular single-engine turboprop. The new model combines enhanced operational capability with modern avionics and improved passenger comfort while retaining the flexibility for which the PC-12 family has long been known.
Garmin G3000 Prime and Emergency Autoland
The most significant cockpit change is the introduction of Garmin G3000 Prime. The new avionics suite expands flight automation and provides the crew with three large 14-inch touchscreens and two additional displays. Faster processors, advanced terrain depiction and smart checklists are designed to make essential information easier to access and the aircraft more intuitive to operate.
Emergency Autoland is among the most advanced new safety features. If the pilot becomes unable to continue the flight, the system can take control, select a suitable airport and complete an automatic landing. The PC-12 PRO also features Emergency Return, improved taxiway guidance and connected tools that support aircraft systems monitoring.
Weather radar and connected aircraft management
The equipment includes Garmin’s GWX 8000 digital weather radar, designed to help detect conditions including rain, hail and turbulence. Garmin PlaneSync can automatically update databases, record flight and engine data, and allow operators to check selected aircraft information remotely, including fuel and systems status.
Greater useful load and a redesigned cabin
Compared with the previous generation, the PC-12 PRO gains 100 pounds, or approximately 45 kilograms, of useful load. This provides greater flexibility when planning missions, particularly when balancing passengers and baggage.
The 330-cubic-foot, or 9.34-cubic-metre, cabin introduces PC-24-inspired seats with taller backs, full recline and quick-removal hardware. Rectangular windows are approximately 10 percent larger, giving passengers better visibility and more natural light. Pilatus has also improved soundproofing, air conditioning, LED lighting, storage and the lavatory.
Proven power and operational flexibility
Power continues to come from the well-established Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6 engine family. Combining a proven powerplant with the new avionics suite is intended to deliver strong safety and reliability while preserving access to smaller airports that many light jets cannot use.
A typically equipped Pilatus PC-12 PRO is priced at approximately US$6.8 million, positioning it in the premium business aircraft segment. The model is designed to meet growing demand for comfort, safety and performance without sacrificing the route flexibility that has made the PC-12 so widely used.
Source: Skies Magazine ↗