Tradewind Aviation has taken delivery of two PC-12 NGX turboprops directly from Pilatus Aircraft, the second and third deliveries from an order for 20 new aircraft placed with the manufacturer in February 2022.

“The arrival of new aircraft is always an exciting development in the aviation industry and particularly for us as we continue to grow our fleet of Pilatus PC-12 NGX turboprops and strengthen our partnership with a well-respected industry leader,” says co-founder and president Eric Zipkin. “With Citation CJ3 Jet aircraft also part of our fleet, Tradewind is well equipped to broaden our flight options and provide a great experience for guests and crew on short and medium range flights across the map.”

Tradewind now operates 24 PC-12s, including owned and managed aircraft, giving it one of the largest Pilatus fleets in the world as well as the status as a fleet operator to secure direct support from the manufacturer. Tradewind’s growing fleet supports its expansion into the southeast US market, further growth in the northeast and Caribbean, and the upcoming launch of scheduled routes to Newport and Virgin Gorda.

The aircraft were flown in by Tradewind pilots following interior finishing and paint at the manufacturer’s US facility in Broomfield, Colorado, and put directly into service in Tradewind’s northeast region. Subsequent deliveries will follow the same path, arriving at a rate of four aircraft a year over the next five years.

The fourth and fifth aircraft are expected to arrive in October and November 2023. Some of the new fleet will be housed at the company’s 50,000 sq ft hangar complex at Hudson Valley Regional airport in Dutchess County, New York.

The NGX turboprop features efficiency and passenger comfort enhancements. Its engine is computer-controlled, enabling lower fuel burn and lower propeller RPM, which reduces noise in the cabin and makes for more pleasant flights.

The NGX is also a positive for sustainability, which is important for Tradewind’s leadership, further reducing fuel burn and introducing a platform that is approved for sustainable aviation fuel. This aspect complements Tradewind’s Carbon Offset Program, through which the company automatically purchases carbon offsets for all operated flights throughout North America and the Caribbean at no cost to guests.