Pilatus PC-12 PRO Unveiled The latest iteration of Pilatus's flagship turboprob model - the PC-12- has been unveiled. It is called the PC-12 PRO and is billed as the most advanced single in the industry. At the heart of a number of the upgrades made to the PC-12 for this latest variant surrounds what Pilatus calls ACE (Advanced Cockpit Environment). At the heart of ACE is the Garmin G3000 PRIME Integrated Flight Deck. Fully customized by Pilatus, features such as Pilatus’ proprietary Cursor Control Device, track-based synthetic vision, and exclusive visual customization provide Pilatus pilots with superior solutions for ease of operation in all flight conditions. Three large, high-resolution touchscreen flight displays, supported by two 7” secondary touchscreen displays, provide twice the processing power four time the Random Access Memory (RAM) capacity as the original G3000. The completely redesigned cockpit also features ergonomic control yokes inspired by those in the PC-24, as well as a more sophisticated cockpit interior. Exterior visibility has been improved by removing the “Direct Vision” cockpit window frame.
In combination with the fully automatic electronic engine and propeller control system (EPECS), the digital thrust control, or “Autothrottle System”, reduces the pilot’s workload, optimizes performance, increases fuel efficiency, ensures a quieter flying experience and protects against engine overlimit events. The PC-12 PRO also generates fewer CO2 emissions and is additionally ready for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), enabling a greener future without sacrificing performance.
There are some other updates to the PRO in the cabin for the passengers. The cabin was reworked and all-new cabinetry provides additional storage space and aesthetics. Entirely fresh PC-12 PRO color schemes are also available tying together exterior and interior freshness on a plane type that has been flying since the early '90's. Back in the cockpit there is the “Autoland” function. Additionally, the PC-12 PRO provides heightened levels of safety with enhanced improvements to the integrated “Stall Warning & Protection System” and the “Electronic Stability and Protection” function. The weather radar features a new and larger antenna to provide even greater situational awareness in the cockpit.
The aircraft is still powered by the Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6 engine but the latest iteration of it. Combining this with the ability to utilize SAF is a win for those who think about the environment everytime they fly. The Pilatus PC-12 PRO is already certified but Pilatus will commence deliveries of the latest variant to customers in the 4th quarter of this year. For more information: Pilatus Aircraft Ltd Stans, Switzerland www.pilatus-aircraft.com ***
