Pilatus Aircraft has enjoyed its most successful year for the PC-12 since the programme began in 1994. The company delivered 80 business turboprops, including 10 to European customers.

"In 2005 we were fortunate to see extremely strong demand for the PC-12," said president and ceo Oscar Schwenk. "The strong economies in nearly all regions of the world helped set a new production and sales record for Pilatus."

Citing data released by the General Aviation Manufacturers Association, the company reports that the PC-12 was the top-selling turbine-powered business aircraft for the third consecutive year.