15 September 2023: In this month’s ‘Smart: Tried and Tested’ we’re taking a look at the Pilatus PC-12 NGX, the ‘world’s greatest single-engine turboprop’ and one of the most desired private business jets on the market. Known as the ‘lean machine’, sustainability is a very important attribute. 

The PC-12 has proven itself to be the most versatile and valued business aircraft in the world, boasting over seven million flight hours. The aircraft leads the pack with its next level of efficiency and technological advancement.

The PC-12 is highly trusted for its safety operations and valued for low operating costs. There are over 1,700 PC-12’s in the industry today.

The maximum passengers the PC-12 can fly is 8 plus two pilots and maximum payload if 2,236lbs. 

The PC-12 has a maximum cruise speed of 333 mph (537km) and a maximum range of 2974 miles (with four passengers) and 1804 miles (with six passengers). Its maximum operating altitude is 30,000 ft.

The overall length of the plane is 47 ft 3 in (14.40 m) and it is 14 ft 0 in (4.26 m) high. The wingspan is 53 ft 4 in (16.28 m).

Sustainability is important to Piltaus and the PC-12 uses up to 74% less emissions and only fully approved sustainable aviation fuel. 

The interior cabin has been inspired by BMW Designworks, offering a comfortable and modern cabin including full recline executive seats, taller seat backs and increased headroom. The seats are made from fine European leather with custom hand stitching and only the latest in WiFi, entertainment and connectivity technologies will be found onboard.

The safety features on the PC-12 are on par with a twin engine aircraft with regards to safety. Using the latest technology in navigation, safety and situational awareness, features includes enhanced graphical displays, weather on the vertical situation display, full ADS-B IN functionality, 3D audio, detailed 2D airport moving maps, SmartLanding and SmartRunway awareness and advisory system, flight path guidance for visual approaches, controller-pilot datalink communications, and even an optional digital autothrottle system.

Smart’s VIP Charter Broker, Kacper Wojtaszek, said: “The PC-12 is extremely versatile and whilst we use it frequently for private jet bookings, it has a reputation for being unrivalled in surveillance, cargo and even search and rescue missions. The PC-12 was originally developed for tough terrain in the Alps, as it can land on unpaved runways. There is the perception that single turboprop planes are not as safe but that is not correct. You would struggle to find a safer aircraft, as it still has a pressurised cabin so it is able to fly above the weather. Our clients love it because it is comfortable and cost effective.” 

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