Pilatus PC-24

Following the PC-12 single-engine turboprop program, Pilatus Aircraft initiated the PC-24 program in 2007 to develop a twin-engine jet with greater range and speed while retaining rough-field capability. The development was funded using existing company resources and the program was publicly mentioned in Pilatus' May 2011 annual report. The PC-24 was formally introduced on 21 May 2013, at the European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE) in Geneva. The first of three prototypes, P01, was rolled out on 1 August 2014. Prototype P01 was used for exploring the flight envelope, P02 for avionics and autopilot integration testing, and P03 served as a representative production model incorporating improvements. The first flight occurred on 11 May 2015, from Buochs Airport, Switzerland. The PC-24 received EASA and FAA type certification on 7 December 2017. The first customer delivery to PlaneSense was on 7 February 2018.

Design

The Pilatus PC-24 is a low-wing cantilever monoplane powered by two Williams FJ44-4A turbofans mounted on the rear fuselage sides. It features a T-tail and retractable tricycle landing gear. The wing incorporates a double-slotted flap system, contributing to a stall speed of 81 knots at maximum landing weight. The trailing link landing gear has a long stroke, and the dual-wheel main wheels operate at 70 psi pressure. The wing flaps feature replaceable, abradable surfaces. The high-mounted engines are positioned to minimize debris ingestion. Pilatus collaborated with Honeywell on the Advanced Cockpit Environment, utilizing the Honeywell Primus Epic 2 avionics system, designed to support single-pilot certification. The cabin accommodates up to ten passengers and one or two pilots and has three exits: a front left passenger door, overwing emergency exits, and a rear left cargo door.

The PC-24's primary function is passenger and cargo transport. Its design facilitates operation from short and rough airstrips. The aircraft has a maximum payload capacity of 1,406 kg (3,100 lb) and a large cargo door.

Operational History

The PC-24 has seen diverse operational use. The Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia operates PC-24 aircraft as air ambulances, equipped with medical interiors. The Qatar Emiri Air Force operates two PC-24s for governmental transport. Sweden's Svenskt Ambulansflyg operates six PC-24s for medical evacuation.

Variants

Main Variants:

• PC-24: The baseline production model, capable of operating from short and unpaved runways.

• PC-24 medevac: Configured as an air ambulance, capable of accommodating three beds and medical equipment.

• PC-24 (modified): Features updated designs with lighter seats, touchscreen-controlled avionics, and optional galleys.

• PC-24 steep approach certified: Approved for steep approaches, including operations at a 5.5° approach angle.

• PC-24 rough field operation certified: Certified for operations on grass, wet earth, and snow-covered surfaces.