Boise, Idaho-based Aviation Specialties Unlimited (ASU) has obtained an STC from the FAA for night vision imaging system (NVIS) use on the Pilatus PC-12. This STC is the 14th that ASU has received for fixed-wing aircraft.

“This STC is important because it will allow us to give operators of this highly-versatile aircraft the ability to perform safer nighttime operations with night vision,” says ASU repair station manager Chris Reber. “Because of the PC-12s ability to take off and land from undeveloped runways and fly in terrain that is less developed, adding NVIS capability just adds to the aircraft's already robust capabilities.”

In addition to the PC-12, ASU holds NVIS STCs for several other fixed-wing aircraft including the AT-402, AT-802A, AT-602, Cessna 208 Caravan, Casa C-212, C-206, DHC-4, DHC-6-300, DHC-7, DHC-8 100/200 Dash-8, Dornier 228-202, G550 and PZL M18A.

ASU works closely with operators to continually get new STCs. Its in-house drafting, parts manufacturer approval, travelling NVIS installers and streamline STC approval process minimise the aircraft downtime to get them back in operation quickly.

The Pilatus PC-12 is a highly versatile fixed-wing aircraft that is used for VIP transport, cargo transport, law enforcement, search and rescue, and emergency medical transportation. The PC-12 does not require long runways, can utilise unpaved runways, has a range of more than 1,800 nautical air miles with an 800-pound payload and four passengers, and can fly at an altitude of up to 30,000 feet. The large cargo door makes it easy to unload and load cargo. There are more than 1,800 PC-12s in use around the world today.