Pilatus’ PC-12NG, the upgraded version of its venerable single-engine turboprop, is making its Farnborough debut. The first NG was delivered in May in the US and the UK’s first aircraft arrived in late June. EASA and FAA certification was awarded in March this year.
At the heart of the NG upgrade is Honeywell’s Primus Apex integrated avionics, an upgraded 1,200shp P&WC PT6A-67P engine as well as a redesigned cockpit interior by BMW Group Designworks USA.
Bob Berry, chairman of British distributor Pilatus UK says: “Demand will only grow for this aircraft. We do not have a competitor - that’s not arrogance but there’s nothing equal to the PC-12 and what it does. It can use 700m strips and 2,000nm range at 28,000ft with 8 people.”
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Berry is convinced that if or when the regulations on single-engined commercial operations in Europe change, he could sell aircraft into commercial operations. “The PC-12NG has taken us into the 21st century. The difference is huge: you are going from King/Bendix equipment to pure glass. You can just call in so much information from that cockpit,” adds Berry. Berry expects the next UK-bound NG to be delivered in November this year.
Source: Flight International
