The Pilatus PC-24—described by its manufacturer as a sui-generis “super versatile jet”—took a step closer to entering active service in the UK this week, as distributor Oriens Aviation brought two examples for a familiarization and demonstration tour.
As with the PC-12, operators say they expect the PC-24 to become considerably more capable as post-certification development continues. It’s off to a strong start, and it can only get better.
By William Garvey, Jessica A. Salerno, Molly McMillin
In late June, the Pilatus PC-24 twinjet made its first landing on an unpaved runway as part of a test program by the Swiss manufacturer to obtain "Rough Field" certification in the fourth quarter 2018.
PC-24's ACE flight deck, powered by Honeywell Epic 2.0 avionics, features 12-in. screens, point-and-click graphic user interface and several advanced features.
The Pilatus PC-24 twin-engine business jet under development is on track for certification by year’s end, said Michael Kolman, regional director of Pilatus aircraft sales for KCAC Aviation, based in Olathe, Kansas.