PC-12

PC-12

The PC-12 is a single-engine turboprop passenger and cargo aircraft manufactured by Pilatus Aircraft of Switzerland. The main market for the aircraft is corporate transport and regional airliner operators. The United States Air Force's designation for the PC-12 is the U-28A.

Design and Development

The PC-12 was designed as a versatile, robust, and high-performance aircraft. It is powered by a single Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6 turboprop engine, which is known for its reliability and efficiency. The aircraft's design allows it to operate from short and unimproved runways, making it suitable for a wide range of environments.

The aircraft features a pressurized cabin with seating for up to nine passengers. The cabin can be configured for different roles, including passenger transport, cargo transport, air ambulance, and other special missions.

Operational History

The PC-12 entered service in 1994 and has since been used by a variety of operators around the world. It has proven popular with corporate transport operators due to its versatility, performance, and comfort. The aircraft has also been used by regional airlines, air ambulance services, and military operators.

In the military role, the PC-12 has been used for a variety of missions, including personnel transport, light cargo transport, and special operations. The United States Air Force operates a fleet of PC-12s under the designation U-28A.

Variants

Several variants of the PC-12 have been produced, including the PC-12/45, PC-12/47, and PC-12 NG. The different variants feature improvements in performance, avionics, and comfort.

Specifications

The PC-12 has a maximum speed of 285 knots, a range of 1,845 nautical miles, and a service ceiling of 30,000 feet. It can carry a maximum payload of 2,450 pounds.

File:Pilatus PC-12 NG.jpg

A Pilatus PC-12 NG

See Also

• Pilatus Aircraft
• Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6
• Turboprop