Purely Fascinating

Pilatus PC-12 PRO is a masterpiece born from Innovation

Issue: BizAvIndia 3/2025By Rohit Goel Photo(s): By Pilatus
THE NEW PC-12 PRO: THE LATEST PC-12 IS THE MOST PROFESSIONAL, PROVEN, AND PROGRESSIVE VERSION EVER

With the PC-12, Pilatus created an icon that has fascinated aviators and passengers alike for many years. The secret to this success lies in a harmonious overall concept combined with timeless design. It is an aircraft that approaches perfection in its technical and aerodynamic execution. With more than 2,000 aircraft sold worldwide and operating in some of the most challenging and remote conditions, attention now turns to the new PC-12 PRO – The Most Advanced Single.

The latest generation of the PC-12 is both the culmination of its predecessors and a vision of the future. Since 1939, Pilatus has blazed new trails in aviation, overcoming unique engineering challenges to enable operators to achieve the impossible and access environments beyond the reach of other aircraft. True leaders never stop progressing, and Pilatus has once again raised the bar. The result is the most advanced and modern version of the PC-12 yet – a perfect blend of experience and innovation, offering new possibilities for single-engine turboprop travel. The latest PC-12 is the most professional, proven, and progressive version ever.

PC-12 “PRO”

  • PROgressive Cockpit: Powered by the Garmin G3000 Prime, the PC-12 PRO is more powerful than ever before. The fully redesigned flight deck features new-style yokes and five large, high-resolution touchscreen displays.
  • PROfound Design: With short and rough field capability, the PC-12 PRO can take passengers where most business aircraft cannot. A large standard cargo door allows unique cargo to accompany every mission.
  • PROtective Safety: Safety in the air and on the ground includes Emergency Autoland, Electronic Stability Protection, Emergency Descent Mode, and Surface Watch.
  • PROven Concept: More than 2,000 PC-12s have been sold globally, with over eleven million flight hours backed by the ultra-reliable Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6 engine. Experience makes the difference.
  • PROductive Cabin: An interior designed to take productivity to new heights, tailored for modern professionals and combining elegance with comfort and functionality.
  • PROfitable Investment: Independent aftermarket research confirms that PC-12 owners enjoy the highest value retention in business aviation, significantly lowering the total cost of ownership.
  • PROfessional Service: Pilatus customer support has consistently ranked number one in the business turboprop market. Pilatus Class service comes standard.
  • PROminent Manufacturer: Since 1939, every Pilatus aircraft has been designed and manufactured with legendary Swiss quality and craftsmanship. The PC-12 PRO continues that proud heritage.
THE CABIN REFLECTS BOTH ELEGANCE AND INDIVIDUALITY AND CAN BE RECONFIGURED FOR CARGO, COMBINATION, OR AIR AMBULANCE MISSIONS

ADVANCED COCKPIT TECHNOLOGY

Designed for unmatched control and precision, the PC-12 PRO leads the way with advanced features that reinforce its reputation. At its core is the new Advanced Cockpit Environment – ACE – powered by the Garmin G3000 Prime. Three large, highresolution flight displays, two touch screen smart controllers, and Pilatus’ proprietary Cursor Control Device combine to place full control of every phase of flight at the pilot’s fingertips.

The fully redesigned flight deck also introduces new crew yokes, modern interior finishing, and improved exterior visibility with the removal of the Direct Vision window. Personalised profiles allow pilots to tailor the cockpit to their preferences and recall settings even when multiple pilots operate the same aircraft.

WITH MORE THAN 2,000 AIRCRAFT SOLD WORLDWIDE AND OPERATING IN SOME OF THE MOST CHALLENGING AND REMOTE CONDITIONS, ATTENTION NOW TURNS TO THE NEW PC-12 PRO – THE MOST ADVANCED SINGLE

With millions of PC-12 flight hours informing their work, Pilatus engineers ensure every new technology earns its place only if it strengthens safety and efficiency. A unique touch screen controller, exclusive to the PC-12 PRO, exemplifies this philosophy. Designed with gripping edges and stabilising contours, it ensures accuracy even in turbulence. A Cursor Control Device on the center pedestal further enhances precision in challenging conditions.

Autoland activates automatically if the system detects the pilot is unable to control the aircraft. Passengers can also press an activation button. During navigation to the nearest suitable airport, Autoland avoids dangerous terrain, obstacles, and adverse weather. It selects the optimal runway, performs the landing, and brings the aircraft safely to a stop, ready for emergency services. This makes the PC-12 PRO the safest version ever produced.

EXECUTIVE CABIN

Inspired by the PC-24 Super Versatile Jet, the PC-12 PRO’s executive seats offer full recline, taller backrests, and increased headroom. Upholstered in fine European leather with custom handstitching, the cabin reflects both elegance and individuality.

Enhanced ergonomics, refined finishing, and upgraded lighting combine to elevate productivity and comfort. The cabin delivers superior quiet and relaxation, ensuring passengers arrive refreshed.

Minimalistic and modern, yet responsibly sourced, the interior represents the perfect fusion of form and function. Six new executive design lines from BMW Designworks provide seating for up to eight passengers, complemented by large windows and improved cabinet layouts.

AUTOLAND PERFORMS THE LANDING AND BRINGS THE AIRCRAFT SAFELY TO A STOP. THIS MAKES THE PC-12 PRO THE SAFEST VERSION EVER PRODUCED.

A private, fully enclosed forward lavatory improves usability and comfort. Unlike many aircraft in its class, the lavatory is dedicated to its purpose rather than doubling as a passenger seat. Its forward placement also allows greater flexibility in configuring the aft cabin for seating or cargo.

The PC-12 PRO’s adaptability is unrivaled. Owners can select executive layouts, add or remove commuter seats, or configure the cabin for cargo, combination, or air ambulance missions. The hallmark cargo door makes reconfiguration simple and efficient.

FROM SHORT RUNWAYS TO GRASS AND GRAVEL

Pilots of twin turboprops and business jets often take pride in operating from airports with runways of 3,500 feet (1,067 meters). The PC-12 PRO requires just 2,485 feet (758 meters) at maximum gross weight, while also operating from grass, gravel, or dirt strips. This performance opens access to thousands more destinations worldwide.

Whether transporting oversized parts, supporting field operations, or accommodating up to nine passengers, the PC-12 PRO is designed for flexibility. A pallet-sized cargo door, flat floor, and forward lavatory provide more usable space than any other single-engine turboprop.

Cargo remains within the pressurised, temperature-controlled cabin and is accessible in flight. Additional baggage space in the aft compartment further enhances practicality.

A DEPENDABLE ENGINE FOR A SINGLE

In any single-engine aircraft, the engine is paramount. The PC-12 PRO is powered by the newest evolution of the world’s most reliable power plant: the Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6. With over 64,000 units in service and more than one billion flight hours, its record is unmatched. On the PC-12 alone, the PT6 has logged more than eleven million flight hours with a safety record superior to many twin-engine business jets.

The PT6 E-Series engine offers a 5,000-hour overhaul interval, reinforcing its dependability. At the core of the PC-12 PRO is the PT6E-67XP, producing 1,200 shaft horsepower for takeoff and climb. The aircraft incorporates second-generation, dual-channel Electronic Propeller and Engine Control along with a digital auto throttle, reducing workload and preventing exceedance issues. Pilots can also select a low-speed propeller mode for reduced noise. The single-lever power control with flight-phase detents further optimises efficiency across all stages of flight.

TRUSTED PARTNER FOR EVERY FLIGHT

When operators join the Pilatus family, they benefit from a support system unmatched in the industry. Safety, comfort, and reliability remain the highest priorities, reinforced by 24/7/365 customer care and a global network of Authorized Service Centres.

With more than eleven million flight hours in the harshest environments, Pilatus has earned a reputation for outstanding service, consistently winning customer-voted awards for excellence. Pilatus Class service goes beyond first-class – it is truly unique in business aviation.

The CrystalCare programme eliminates uncertainty in maintenance costs by covering virtually all expenses and even includes Mobile Recovery Service. Once enrolled, operators can have maintenance actions billed directly to Pilatus through Authorized Service Centres, ensuring worry-free operations worldwide.

SUSTAINABILITY AND RESPONSIBILITY

Pilatus continues to increase the use of sustainable energy throughout its production process, streamlining operations to reduce waste and energy consumption. The PC-12 PRO exemplifies this commitment by delivering lower carbon emissions than comparable twin-engine aircraft, proving that innovation and responsibility can go hand in hand.