The latest variant PC-12 NGX from Pilatus, launched at NBAA-BACE, incorporates an improved engine, smarter avionics and a completely redesigned cabin with larger windows.

Pilatius says the aircraft builds on the experience gathered from the worldwide PC-12 fleet of over 1,700 aircraft, more than seven million flight hours and Pilatus support. It is equipped with the PT6E-67XP turboprop engine by Pratt & Whitney Canada. This improved engine features an electronic propeller and engine control system including Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC), a worldwide first in this market segment, and it enables a maximum cruise speed of 290 ktas. In addition, the new propeller low speed mode results in a significant reduction in cabin noise for greater passenger comfort and the aircraft adds advanced features like Prist-free fuel operation.

The PC-12 NGX has a range of new features for the pilot: the Advanced Cockpit Environment (ACE) system by Honeywell, inspired by the PC-24, provides enhanced avionics; and a cursor control device combined with a smart touch screen controller in the flight deck. The digital autothrottle reduces pilot workload for greater safety and ensures automatic power optimisation in every phase of flight.

The cabin windows have been enlarged by ten per cent to deliver more natural light. Their rectangular shape, also adapted from the PC-24, and dark windshield surround trim create a distinctive ramp presence.

The completely redesigned cabin comes in six different BMW Designworks' interiors. Extremely light passenger seats offer optimum ergonomics with full-recline capability if required, and are arranged to provide maximum freedom of movement with more headroom thanks to the redesigned headliner. In addition, the air conditioning system delivers better and quieter air distribution.

With the new PC-12 NGX, scheduled maintenance intervals have been extended to 600 flight hours, which provides cost savings. The time-between-overhaul period has also been increased from 4,000 to 5,000 hours, thereby reducing the operational costs even further.

CEO Markus Bucher says: “To maintain the PC-12's leadership in the general aviation marketplace, we continuously seek innovative solutions which benefit the safety, comfort and productivity of our customers. The PC-12 NGX is a showcase for the advanced technology collaboration between Pilatus, Pratt & Whitney Canada and Honeywell. Together, we took the best and made it even better. What's more, our customers do not have to wait years to enjoy these benefits; the PC-12 NGX is here today.”

The base price in 2020 is US$4,390,000, with a typically equipped executive-configured aircraft priced at US$5,369,000. The PC-12 NGX is certified, and customer deliveries will begin in the second quarter of 2020.