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"The Most Advanced Single-Engine Turboprop Aircraft of all Time" The PC-12 Pro From Pilatus is Here

Source: Press release | Translated by AI 3 min Reading Time

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Developments such as an entirely new cockpit and innovative safety features, combined with the proven engine, make the new PC-12 Pro the most technologically advanced, efficient, and reliable aircraft in its class, according to the manufacturer.

Delivery of the already certified PC-12 Pro will begin in the fourth quarter of 2025.(Image: Pilatus Aircraft Ltd)
Delivery of the already certified PC-12 Pro will begin in the fourth quarter of 2025.
(Image: Pilatus Aircraft Ltd)

At the heart of the new PC-12 Pro is the completely redesigned cockpit "Pilatus Advanced Cockpit Environment" (ACE), based on the Garmin G3000 Prime. Three high-resolution 14-inch "Primary Flight Displays" and two 7-inch secondary displays—all touchscreens—and the Pilatus-developed "Cursor Control Device" give the pilot full control over every phase of the flight, ensuring an unparalleled user experience.

The cockpit is also equipped with ergonomic control yokes inspired by those of the PC-24 and offers a refined cockpit interior. Thanks to the elimination of the "Direct Vision" cockpit window frame, it also provides even better visibility outside.

"Autoland" Function as Standard

By integrating Garmin's comprehensive portfolio of advanced safety features—including the emergency landing function "Autoland"—the PC-12 Pro offers the highest level of safety. Improvements to the integrated "Stall Warning & Protection System" and "Electronic Stability & Protection" further contribute to safety. The weather radar is supported by a new, larger antenna, which further enhances situational awareness in the cockpit. The Autoland functionality will be standard and available in all PC-12 Pro from 2026.

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Proven Engine

In a single-engine aircraft, the most important component is a proven engine. The PC-12 Pro is equipped with the latest version of the Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6 aircraft engine. With over 60,000 engines in operation and more than 400 million flight hours, the PT6 engine family has an unmatched track record. The PT6 engine has already been successfully tested in the PC-12 with over eleven million flight hours.

The digital thrust control, known as the "Autothrottle System," combined with the fully automatic electronic engine and propeller control system (EPECS), reduces the pilot's workload, optimizes performance, enhances fuel efficiency, ensures a smoother flight experience, and protects against engine overloads. The PC-12 Pro is also certified for "Sustainable Aviation Fuel" (SAF), enabling more sustainable flying with consistent performance.

The French Air Force buys 22 PC-7 MKX

PC-7 MKX(Image: Pilatus Aircraft Ltd)
PC-7 MKX
(Image: Pilatus Aircraft Ltd)

The French procurement agency Direction Générale de l'Armement (DGA) has selected the PC-7 MKX as the new training system for the French Air Force. The fleet of 22 PC-7 MKX will be used for the military basic training of pilots, with delivery planned for 2027.

The prestigious "Mentor 2" tender was concluded at the beginning of 2025 with the award of a 17-year contract to Babcock France for the provision of training services based on the PC-7 MKX.

In addition to the 22 aircraft, the package also includes ground-based training components, some of which will be provided in collaboration with the French industry. As part of the ground-based training system, Pilatus will supply simulators, computer-based training, and equipment for the mission planning and debriefing system.

Since 2018, the Armée de l’Air et de l’Espace has been conducting its advanced pilot training on the Pilatus PC-21 and the associated training system at Base Aérienne 709 in Cognac-Châteaubernard. In the meantime, pilots are training on 26 PC-21s, procured in two batches. With the introduction of the PC-7 MKX for basic training, France now exclusively uses Pilatus training aircraft for all phases of training.

Markus Bucher, CEO of Pilatus, on the contract signing: "It is a great honor to be chosen again by our esteemed customer France, and we are very proud. The PC-7 MKX will also be equipped with a head-up display. This additional feature ensures high compatibility between the PC-7 MKX and the PC-21. Moreover, the newly developed, state-of-the-art Ground Based Training System, which includes simulators, meets the highest standards and offers a cost-efficient basic training for the military pilots of the 'Grande Nation'."

Ioannis Papachristofilou, VP Government Aviation at Pilatus, adds: "The Armée de l’Air et de l’Espace will be, alongside the Royal Netherlands Air Force, one of the first operators to use the new PC-7 MKX. We look forward to close collaboration with Babcock France in the delivery and operation of the new training system and are confident of achieving the same success as with the PC-21."

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