Certificated in 1994, the Pilatus PC-12 is the largest civil single-engine turboprop being produced today. Pilatus has a long history of building rugged, military aircraft in Switzerland. Early versions were certificated at 8,200 pounds (4.1 tons) but later versions are all certificated to a higher gross weight of 9,920 pounds (4.5 tons); however, early versions can be upgraded. Pilatus selected the Pratt & Whitney PT6A-67 engine to power this aircraft.
The PC-12 Next Generation is an upgrade to the big singles engine and avionics. The engines have been upgraded to the PT6A-67P variant with 1,744 shp. A Honeywell Primus Apex avionics suite is standard.
In addition to the Swiss workmanship, the PC-12’s selling points are its cabin size, versatility and operating cost. The PC-12 cabin is approximately the size of the King Air B200 and seats from eight to nine passengers comfortably. The PC-12 also has a standard rear cargo door, which makes loading and unloading of baggage and cargo a snap. The aircraft is in use as executive transport, cargo, combo (i.e., cargo and passengers together), EMS and commuter operations.
