Pilatus Aircraft Ltd announced that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Air Force & Air Defense (AF&AD) has entered into a contract in excess of $500 million to procure a fleet of 25 PC-21 turboprop aircraft, together with an integrated ground based training system and comprehensive logistics support.
The UAE is now the third country after Switzerland and Singapore to contract with Pilatus for turbo-trainers Delivery of the aircraft and the complete training system is scheduled to begin in 2011, with basic and advanced flight training in the UAE to be in line with the 4th generation equipment already in service in the front line squadrons.
The decision to select the PC-21 training system was made after a thorough evaluation by the UAE, which looked at all available options. Pilatus considers the contract a major success for the company in the Middle East, and hopes it will encourage other forces in the region and beyond to take a close look at its pilot training program.
As a partner to the UAE AF&AD for more than 25 years, in supporting the existing fleet of PC-7 trainer aircraft, Pilatus says this contract shows the confidence and trust its customer has bestowed on the company for their basic and advanced flight training requirements.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
U.S. BLM Selects PC-12
Pilatus Business Aircraft, Ltd. announced that the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has taken delivery of its first Pilatus PC-12. The aircraft will be put to multirole use performing cargo, passenger, smokejumper, air tactical, aerial supervision and lead plane fire-fighting missions.
BLM said it selected the PC-12 because it is the only aircraft that meets all the mission requirements, and will provide it with significantly enhanced capability at the least annual program cost. BLM estimates that ownership of this aircraft will reduce the direct cost to the government by $1.5 million per year as opposed to contracting for a similar aircraft.
The BLM’s multirole PC-12 features the unique Utility Door option. Capable of being opened in flight, this inward-opening door is mounted within the PC-12’s standard cargo door and enables the aircraft to depressurize and perform specialist parachute work or drop supplies or relief materials, and later re-pressurize and return to high speed cruise at
altitude.
Leonard Luke, Vice President of Homeland Security and Government Business at Pilatus added, “The PC-12 has become increasingly popular as a cost effective multirole solution for government agencies. Strong performance, fuel efficiency, and a rugged airframe suitable for military missions make it the ideal special mission platform for today’s government and law enforcement agencies.”
The BLM is responsible for the management and conservation of resources on 256 million surface acres in the United States. These public lands make up about 13 percent of the total land surface of the country and more than 40 percent of all land managed by the U.S. government. The PC-12 will be based at the BLM’s Fire and Aviation Directorate and National Interagency Fire Center in Boise, Idaho.
BLM said it selected the PC-12 because it is the only aircraft that meets all the mission requirements, and will provide it with significantly enhanced capability at the least annual program cost. BLM estimates that ownership of this aircraft will reduce the direct cost to the government by $1.5 million per year as opposed to contracting for a similar aircraft.
The BLM’s multirole PC-12 features the unique Utility Door option. Capable of being opened in flight, this inward-opening door is mounted within the PC-12’s standard cargo door and enables the aircraft to depressurize and perform specialist parachute work or drop supplies or relief materials, and later re-pressurize and return to high speed cruise at
altitude.
Leonard Luke, Vice President of Homeland Security and Government Business at Pilatus added, “The PC-12 has become increasingly popular as a cost effective multirole solution for government agencies. Strong performance, fuel efficiency, and a rugged airframe suitable for military missions make it the ideal special mission platform for today’s government and law enforcement agencies.”
The BLM is responsible for the management and conservation of resources on 256 million surface acres in the United States. These public lands make up about 13 percent of the total land surface of the country and more than 40 percent of all land managed by the U.S. government. The PC-12 will be based at the BLM’s Fire and Aviation Directorate and National Interagency Fire Center in Boise, Idaho.
McClellan: The Eternal Turboprop
Mac McClellan extols the virtues of turboprops in his “Left Seat” column in Flying magazine, saying “The fuel efficiency margin is particularly great for the turboprop in the crowded coastal airspace corridors where air traffic control constraints prevent the jets from reaching high fuel efficiency altitudes quickly, or even at all. In other words, a turboprop in real world flying can come closer to its perfect day brochure performance numbers than most jets.” Read the whole thing.
Skytech Expands, Opens New Service Center
Skytech, Inc., one of the world’s premier authorized dealers for new and pre‐owned, high‐end, owner‐flown and business‐level aircraft, has opened a new state‐of‐the‐art, Baltimore‐Washington metro area facility to serve a rapidly expanding customer base.
The new 10,000 square‐foot Service Facility is technically considered a “highly‐renovated” site –given that Skytech kept the original cement floor and existing steel substructure. But aside from that, most everything else is new, including an attached 7,000‐square‐foot Service building that houses the avionics department, back shops for parts, sheet metal work, battery rooms, aircraft interior storage, service offices and employee locker rooms/lounge.
Meanwhile, the Aircraft Sales Department is housed in another 12,500‐square‐foot, fully renovated 10‐year‐old hangar that features heated floors and a private ramp. The FBO, itself, features a newly renovated (again, Skytech kept the original cement and – in this case – the steel roof) and furnished passenger and pilot lounge, weather briefing facility with WSI, Conference Room, and pilot “quiet” room. The FBO includes two storage hangars totaling 20,000 square feet and is capable of housing larger jets from the Cessna / Gulfstream / Bombardier / and Dassault product lines.
The new 10,000 square‐foot Service Facility is technically considered a “highly‐renovated” site –given that Skytech kept the original cement floor and existing steel substructure. But aside from that, most everything else is new, including an attached 7,000‐square‐foot Service building that houses the avionics department, back shops for parts, sheet metal work, battery rooms, aircraft interior storage, service offices and employee locker rooms/lounge.
Meanwhile, the Aircraft Sales Department is housed in another 12,500‐square‐foot, fully renovated 10‐year‐old hangar that features heated floors and a private ramp. The FBO, itself, features a newly renovated (again, Skytech kept the original cement and – in this case – the steel roof) and furnished passenger and pilot lounge, weather briefing facility with WSI, Conference Room, and pilot “quiet” room. The FBO includes two storage hangars totaling 20,000 square feet and is capable of housing larger jets from the Cessna / Gulfstream / Bombardier / and Dassault product lines.
Skytech Appoints Michael Myers, Director of Service
Skytech has appointed Michael Myers as director of service for the company’s Baltimore-area maintenance location. Myers comes to Skytech with more than 30 years of experience in the aviation maintenance field, most recently serving 15 years as director of maintenance for Landmark Aviation in Leesburg, Va. In addition, Myers has held positions with the former Beech Aerospace Services, as well as with various Cessna, Piper and Mitsubishi dealerships.
Timmins Gets Ornge PC-12
Ornge, Ontario's air ambulance service, announced yesterday the permanent deployment of one of its new Pilatus PC-12 airplanes to Timmins, Ontario. Timmins is the third location for Ornge to base its PC-12s, which are used for advanced and critical care during transport. Deployment of the PC-12 fleet began in Thunder Bay this summer, followed by Sioux Lookout at the beginning of October.
Dr. Chris Mazza, Ornge president and CEO, called Timmins an extremely important base for transport medicine operations in the North. "We are committed to delivering a high-quality service to residents of Timmins and throughout Northern Ontario, and to providing them with the freedom to live and work where they choose without worrying about access to health care," Mazza said.
Dr. Chris Mazza, Ornge president and CEO, called Timmins an extremely important base for transport medicine operations in the North. "We are committed to delivering a high-quality service to residents of Timmins and throughout Northern Ontario, and to providing them with the freedom to live and work where they choose without worrying about access to health care," Mazza said.
Monday, November 2, 2009
PC-12 NG Makes Progress in Tough Market
At the 2009 National Business Aircraft Association (NBAA) Convention in Orlando, Florida, Pilatus reported that its flagship PC-12 NG program is a continued success story despite the challenges in the world economy. The PC-12 NG was certified in the spring of 2008, and Pilatus has delivered more than 140 examples of this latest generation model worldwide. Corporate flight departments, owner-pilots, fractional providers, air ambulance companies, and government agencies operating the fleet have accumulated more than 27,000 flight hours on the PC-12 NG during that time.
At the company’s indoor NBAA exhibit, which features an actual PC-12 NG which is the largest real aircraft inside the main exhibit hall, Pilatus Business Aircraft, Ltd. President and CEO Thomas Bosshard said, “The PC-12 NG represents a significant evolution of our flagship business turboprop, and it continues to prove itself to be the right aircraft at the right time. Some have even called it the best kept secret in business aviation.”
The single-turbine powered PC-12 NG has become increasingly popular as a cost effective and defensible solution for business travel. Companies striving to operate as quickly and efficiently as possible have found the PC-12 NG to be an ideal tool to increase productivity. Its low acquisition and operating costs combined with a large cabin, standard cargo door, and ability to fly into short and unimproved airfields, uniquely distinguish the PC-12 NG from other aircraft.
Bosshard continued, “Pilatus has worked quietly and consistently to refine the PC-12 NG and offer the most versatile, highest quality, best supported aircraft in the industry, and the program’s success is not something we take for granted. Our customers always come first and we do our best to continually improve our products and earn their business.”
At the company’s indoor NBAA exhibit, which features an actual PC-12 NG which is the largest real aircraft inside the main exhibit hall, Pilatus Business Aircraft, Ltd. President and CEO Thomas Bosshard said, “The PC-12 NG represents a significant evolution of our flagship business turboprop, and it continues to prove itself to be the right aircraft at the right time. Some have even called it the best kept secret in business aviation.”
The single-turbine powered PC-12 NG has become increasingly popular as a cost effective and defensible solution for business travel. Companies striving to operate as quickly and efficiently as possible have found the PC-12 NG to be an ideal tool to increase productivity. Its low acquisition and operating costs combined with a large cabin, standard cargo door, and ability to fly into short and unimproved airfields, uniquely distinguish the PC-12 NG from other aircraft.
Bosshard continued, “Pilatus has worked quietly and consistently to refine the PC-12 NG and offer the most versatile, highest quality, best supported aircraft in the industry, and the program’s success is not something we take for granted. Our customers always come first and we do our best to continually improve our products and earn their business.”
Pro Star Pilatus Center Sells PC-12 NG at NBAA
Pilatus Aircraft Ltd is delighted to announce that Pro Star Pilatus Center has signed a contract with Polymer Resources Ltd. for the sale of the PC-12 NG factory demonstrator currently on exhibit at the 2009 National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) convention in Orlando, Florida.
The Chairman of Polymer Resources, Mr. Les Klein was on hand to accept the keys to his new aircraft. Founded in 1974 and based in Stamford, Connecticut, Polymer Resources will use the aircraft for corporate travel nationwide. Speaking from the Pilatus booth at the Orange County Convention Center, Mr. Klein commented: “We examined a number of candidate aircraft for our company and it was very obvious that the PC-12 NG captured the greatest number of key mission requirements. Our senior management and technical personnel will put the aircraft to good use in support of our growing customer base. In the end the Pilatus reputation for product support in addition to excellent operating economics made the PC-12 NG a clear choice. We look forward to a long association with Pro Star Pilatus Center as we prepare for entry in to service of our new PC-12 NG.”
Thomas Bosshard, CEO of Pilatus Business Aircraft, Ltd. commented: “Having Mr. Klein here with his new aircraft inside the exhibit hall is a great honor and one of those special moments in life. With our partner Pro Star Pilatus Center, we look forward to a long term relationship supporting Polymer Resources and their new PC-12 NG for many years to come.”
Pro Star Pilatus Center is the factory authorized PC-12 sales and service center for the PC-12 NG in New England, New York, New Jersey, Delaware and Michigan.
The Chairman of Polymer Resources, Mr. Les Klein was on hand to accept the keys to his new aircraft. Founded in 1974 and based in Stamford, Connecticut, Polymer Resources will use the aircraft for corporate travel nationwide. Speaking from the Pilatus booth at the Orange County Convention Center, Mr. Klein commented: “We examined a number of candidate aircraft for our company and it was very obvious that the PC-12 NG captured the greatest number of key mission requirements. Our senior management and technical personnel will put the aircraft to good use in support of our growing customer base. In the end the Pilatus reputation for product support in addition to excellent operating economics made the PC-12 NG a clear choice. We look forward to a long association with Pro Star Pilatus Center as we prepare for entry in to service of our new PC-12 NG.”
Thomas Bosshard, CEO of Pilatus Business Aircraft, Ltd. commented: “Having Mr. Klein here with his new aircraft inside the exhibit hall is a great honor and one of those special moments in life. With our partner Pro Star Pilatus Center, we look forward to a long term relationship supporting Polymer Resources and their new PC-12 NG for many years to come.”
Pro Star Pilatus Center is the factory authorized PC-12 sales and service center for the PC-12 NG in New England, New York, New Jersey, Delaware and Michigan.
2010 PC-12 NG Cockpit to Feature Cursor Control Device
Pilatus Aircraft announced that the 2010 PC-12 NG cockpit will feature an innovative new Cursor Control Device (CCD) as standard equipment.
Mounted on the pedestal between the crew seats, the new CCD system features an ergonomic palm rest with a conveniently positioned trackball, scroll wheel, and buttons for making selections on the PC-12 NG’s two large multifunction displays. The CCD provides a further option for cursor control in addition to the current joystick mounted on the multifunction display controller in the lower center of the instrument panel.
With its Primus Apex avionics system, the PC-12 NG is uniquely suited to integrate a CCD and will set a new standard in its class of aircraft with ease of use and integration typically only found on intercontinental business jets. The comparison is apt because the Primus Apex software was derived from the Primus Epic system and it shares its INAV (interactive navigation) interface. INAV’s powerful software enables pilots to control their flight plan, moving map, weather, traffic, and aircraft systems using simple point-and-click actions.
“Imagine using a computer today having to enter all your information using buttons or concentric knobs,” said Dietmar Bretscher, Pilatus’s Head of Engineering for Corporate & Utility Aircraft. “It would be a challenge until someone handed you a mouse.”
The PC-12 NG was the first aircraft to feature the technologically advanced Primus Apex avionics system. It is mated to an airframe and engine that delivers low acquisition and operating costs, a large cabin, standard cargo door, and ability to fly into short and unimproved airfields, making the PC-12 NG a unique solution for a wide variety of transportation needs.
Mounted on the pedestal between the crew seats, the new CCD system features an ergonomic palm rest with a conveniently positioned trackball, scroll wheel, and buttons for making selections on the PC-12 NG’s two large multifunction displays. The CCD provides a further option for cursor control in addition to the current joystick mounted on the multifunction display controller in the lower center of the instrument panel.
With its Primus Apex avionics system, the PC-12 NG is uniquely suited to integrate a CCD and will set a new standard in its class of aircraft with ease of use and integration typically only found on intercontinental business jets. The comparison is apt because the Primus Apex software was derived from the Primus Epic system and it shares its INAV (interactive navigation) interface. INAV’s powerful software enables pilots to control their flight plan, moving map, weather, traffic, and aircraft systems using simple point-and-click actions.
“Imagine using a computer today having to enter all your information using buttons or concentric knobs,” said Dietmar Bretscher, Pilatus’s Head of Engineering for Corporate & Utility Aircraft. “It would be a challenge until someone handed you a mouse.”
The PC-12 NG was the first aircraft to feature the technologically advanced Primus Apex avionics system. It is mated to an airframe and engine that delivers low acquisition and operating costs, a large cabin, standard cargo door, and ability to fly into short and unimproved airfields, making the PC-12 NG a unique solution for a wide variety of transportation needs.
New PC-12 NG Sales and Service Center for South-Eastern Europe
Pilatus Aircraft announced the selection of OK Business Aircraft, s.r.o as its new dealership for south-eastern Europe. OK Business Aircraft will be responsible for sales, marketing and service of the PC‑12 NG in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, Montenegro, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, and Albania.
Speaking from Pilatus Aircraft Ltd in Stans, Switzerland, Ignaz Gretener, VP General Aviation commented: “We are very excited to form this new alliance with OK Business Aircraft. Their considerable aircraft sales expertise and local knowledge will certainly benefit PC-12 NG customers in the area and provide them with a valuable local source for the transportation solutions they need.”
Located at Pribram Airport (LKPM), Czech Republic, near Prague, OK Business Aircraft provides an ideal location to promote PC-12 NG sales and to build further brand awareness in the region. Lubomir Cornak, Managing Director of OK Business Aircraft added: “The PC-12 NG is renowned worldwide for its superb performance and craftsmanship, and it has great potential to connect and grow businesses throughout south-eastern Europe. I see this as the beginning of a great and long lasting partnership.”
Speaking from Pilatus Aircraft Ltd in Stans, Switzerland, Ignaz Gretener, VP General Aviation commented: “We are very excited to form this new alliance with OK Business Aircraft. Their considerable aircraft sales expertise and local knowledge will certainly benefit PC-12 NG customers in the area and provide them with a valuable local source for the transportation solutions they need.”
Located at Pribram Airport (LKPM), Czech Republic, near Prague, OK Business Aircraft provides an ideal location to promote PC-12 NG sales and to build further brand awareness in the region. Lubomir Cornak, Managing Director of OK Business Aircraft added: “The PC-12 NG is renowned worldwide for its superb performance and craftsmanship, and it has great potential to connect and grow businesses throughout south-eastern Europe. I see this as the beginning of a great and long lasting partnership.”
Seaport Airlines Launches Service in Arkansas
PC-12 operator Seaport Airlines has launched new scheduled service between Memphis and four Arkansas communities. Seaport will provide three round-trips daily except Saturdays to Jonesboro, Harrison, Hot Springs and El Dorado. The communities have been without regular service since 2008, when Air Midwest, a subsidiary of Mesa Airlines, pulled out of the markets. SeaPort beat out several companies that submitted proposals to the Department of Transportation and signed a two-year contract to provide the service for a $6,047,789 federal subsidy
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Seaport Defies Odds
Despite the recession, Portland-based SeaPort Airlines is continuing to add new service routes — and is now looking at offering flights to special events, beginning with next weekend’s Fresh Hop Ale Festival in Yakima. After surviving its first year in business — a recognized landmark for start-ups — Craford is considering how to best use the company’s aircraft. As an experiment, he scheduled a special round-trip flight to Yakima for its large annual beer festival. The plane will leave Portland at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 3, and return at 12:10 p.m. the next day. The cost is $289 per person. Craford admits he had a selfish reason for making the Yakima trip the company’s first special-event flight. “I want to go and don’t want to drive,” Craford says. “What’s the point of owning an airline if you can’t take advantage of it every so often.”
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
New Ornge PC-12 NGs Ready for Service
Ornge’s new medically-equipped airplanes have begun providing medical transport services out of Thunder Bay. Ornge officials say they've been doing some test runs of their new Pilatus PC-12 NGs, and the first aircraft are now ready for patients needing advanced and critical care transport.
Skytech Appoints New Director of Service
Skytech announced Tuesday the appointment of Michael Myers as Director of Service for the company's Baltimore area maintenance location. The company said the move represents a continued effort to provide the best possible service for aircraft owners and operators.
Myers comes to Skytech with more than 30 years of experience in the aviation maintenance field, most recently serving 15 years as Director of Maintenance for Landmark Aviation in Leesburg, VA. In addition, Myers has held positions with the former Beech Aerospace Service, Inc., as well as with various Cessna, Piper and Mitsubishi dealerships.
"We are extremely pleased to bring someone to Skytech with the level of experience, attention to detail and industry relationships that Michael has," said John K. Foster, President of Skytech Inc. "Michael's expertise not only enhances our capabilities but will provide an enormous benefit to our customers."
Myers holds an Airframe and Powerplant license with an Inspector Authorization, and in addition is a licensed Private Pilot.
Myers comes to Skytech with more than 30 years of experience in the aviation maintenance field, most recently serving 15 years as Director of Maintenance for Landmark Aviation in Leesburg, VA. In addition, Myers has held positions with the former Beech Aerospace Service, Inc., as well as with various Cessna, Piper and Mitsubishi dealerships.
"We are extremely pleased to bring someone to Skytech with the level of experience, attention to detail and industry relationships that Michael has," said John K. Foster, President of Skytech Inc. "Michael's expertise not only enhances our capabilities but will provide an enormous benefit to our customers."
Myers holds an Airframe and Powerplant license with an Inspector Authorization, and in addition is a licensed Private Pilot.
Greenwich Aerogroup Names Daniel Lafrance as VP Sales and Marketing
Jim Ziegler, President and Chief Executive Officer of Greenwich AeroGroup announced the appointment of Daniel Lafrance as Vice President of Sales and Marketing for the company.
Prior to joining Greenwich AeroGroup, Mr. Lafrance was an aerospace executive consultant providing consulting services to domestic and international business aviation companies. Before then, Mr. Lafrance spent 21 years with Canadair and Bombardier in various customer support and service roles including Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Bombardier Aircraft Services where he was responsible for worldwide sales and marketing activities for the service center network during the last 10 years of his tenure.
Prior to joining Greenwich AeroGroup, Mr. Lafrance was an aerospace executive consultant providing consulting services to domestic and international business aviation companies. Before then, Mr. Lafrance spent 21 years with Canadair and Bombardier in various customer support and service roles including Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Bombardier Aircraft Services where he was responsible for worldwide sales and marketing activities for the service center network during the last 10 years of his tenure.
A Mission of Mercy
The SA Red Cross Air Mercy Service (AMS) is nonprofit organization with bases in the Western Cape, Northern Cape, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal and Free State. For more than 43 years AMS has been providing air ambulance services to various communities, with a special focus on rural areas.
During this time the AMS flying doctor service has been transporting medical specialists to remote areas of KwaZulu-Natal and the Northern Cape. The AMS works closely with the provincial departments of health.
Every day the nine-seat Pilatus PC-12 fixed-wing aircraft sets off at 7am and flies to KZN's outlying areas. Pilot Mark Hansen has the responsibility of getting the doctors safely to their destination. He has been flying them since last year. "It's amazing to know that you are flying people who offer scarce and much needed services to some of the poorest communities," he says. AMS volunteer flying doctors service coordinator Ronel Badenhorst is responsible for the smooth running of the program.
"I make all the necessary arrangements for every trip so that the doctors and pilot can focus on the work they are supposed to do," she says. Scarce medical care offered by the program include optometry, obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedics, ophthalmology and psychology. The specialists carry out routine visits to hospitals in Pongola, Kokstad, Matatiele, Nongoma and Hlabisa and other remote settings. A total of 49 hospitals are serviced through this program.
During this time the AMS flying doctor service has been transporting medical specialists to remote areas of KwaZulu-Natal and the Northern Cape. The AMS works closely with the provincial departments of health.
Every day the nine-seat Pilatus PC-12 fixed-wing aircraft sets off at 7am and flies to KZN's outlying areas. Pilot Mark Hansen has the responsibility of getting the doctors safely to their destination. He has been flying them since last year. "It's amazing to know that you are flying people who offer scarce and much needed services to some of the poorest communities," he says. AMS volunteer flying doctors service coordinator Ronel Badenhorst is responsible for the smooth running of the program.
"I make all the necessary arrangements for every trip so that the doctors and pilot can focus on the work they are supposed to do," she says. Scarce medical care offered by the program include optometry, obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedics, ophthalmology and psychology. The specialists carry out routine visits to hospitals in Pongola, Kokstad, Matatiele, Nongoma and Hlabisa and other remote settings. A total of 49 hospitals are serviced through this program.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Business Aviation Celebrated At Oshkosh
“Business Aviation Day” at AirVenture took place on AeroShell Square with about eight business aircraft parked around the Airbus A380. This opportunity to highlighted several business aircraft operators and the important impact business aviation has on the economies of their communities and how they use these business tools to create jobs. The day culminated at on the square with a press conference.
FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt set the tone for the speakers who followed him to the podium. "I can't understate the value of General Aviation," he said. "The manufacturing is critical to the economy. So many high-tech jobs are associated with aviation."
Neal Verfuerth, President and CEO of Orion Energy Systems in Manitowoc, WI, said his Pilatus PC-12 is his "secret weapon", which has allowed him to grow his business from $4 million to $80 million since it's founding in 1996.
Companies operating other business jets and turboprops echoed similar themes. Many of the executives spoke of their business airplanes as "Time Machines", which allow them to travel to remote operations and installations and back in the same day, while allowing the travel time to be productive, and not just as a perk of being a top executive.
The news conference, and Business Aviation Day, served to remind many that business aviation is not well understood by the public, nor many in public office. You can expect to hear a lot more from this segment of the industry, as they stress the importance of business aviation to the overall health of the economy.
FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt set the tone for the speakers who followed him to the podium. "I can't understate the value of General Aviation," he said. "The manufacturing is critical to the economy. So many high-tech jobs are associated with aviation."
Neal Verfuerth, President and CEO of Orion Energy Systems in Manitowoc, WI, said his Pilatus PC-12 is his "secret weapon", which has allowed him to grow his business from $4 million to $80 million since it's founding in 1996.
Companies operating other business jets and turboprops echoed similar themes. Many of the executives spoke of their business airplanes as "Time Machines", which allow them to travel to remote operations and installations and back in the same day, while allowing the travel time to be productive, and not just as a perk of being a top executive.
The news conference, and Business Aviation Day, served to remind many that business aviation is not well understood by the public, nor many in public office. You can expect to hear a lot more from this segment of the industry, as they stress the importance of business aviation to the overall health of the economy.
Phoenix Police Department Selects Pilatus PC-12 Spectre
Pilatus announced that the Phoenix Police Department has selected the PC-12 Spectre for use by the Department’s Air Support Unit over the City of Phoenix, Arizona.
Commander Dave Harvey, Commander of the Phoenix Police Department Tactical Support Bureau, said, “After careful consideration, the PC-12 Spectre was selected in part because it is an economical, single-engine, pressurized aircraft with sufficient cabin space to help accomplish a multi-mission role. It is a proven surveillance platform that will also
assist us in crime suppression, transport of Department Detectives for investigative purposes, and assist with out-of-state extraditions.”
Leonard Luke, Vice President of Homeland Security and Government Business at Pilatus added, “It is a real honor for Pilatus to contribute to the protection and service to the City of Phoenix. The PC-12 Spectre is a force multiplier and will be a powerful tool for the Phoenix Police Department’s high demand operations. The aircraft’s proven durability is backed by the best product support in the industry, which means it will be consistently ready to dispatch on a wide variety of missions.”
The PC-12 Spectre is scheduled to be delivered to the Phoenix Police Department in September and their goal is to have the aircraft operational in 2010. The aircraft will join their fleet of eight helicopters and replace several smaller fixed-wing aircraft that had been operated for decades. The Phoenix Police Air Support Unit provides service to 1.57 million Phoenix residents encompassing an area of more than 500 square miles.
The PC-12 Spectre provides a true multi-mission surveillance aircraft available to meet today’s operational realities and tightening budgets. Featuring a retractable surveillance platform, Primus Apex avionics suite, and a pressurized reconfigurable cabin, the PC-12 Spectre has set a new standard for multi-mission aircraft capability. Strong performance, fuel efficiency, and a rugged airframe suitable for military missions make it the ideal special mission platform for today’s government and law enforcement agencies.
Commander Dave Harvey, Commander of the Phoenix Police Department Tactical Support Bureau, said, “After careful consideration, the PC-12 Spectre was selected in part because it is an economical, single-engine, pressurized aircraft with sufficient cabin space to help accomplish a multi-mission role. It is a proven surveillance platform that will also
assist us in crime suppression, transport of Department Detectives for investigative purposes, and assist with out-of-state extraditions.”
Leonard Luke, Vice President of Homeland Security and Government Business at Pilatus added, “It is a real honor for Pilatus to contribute to the protection and service to the City of Phoenix. The PC-12 Spectre is a force multiplier and will be a powerful tool for the Phoenix Police Department’s high demand operations. The aircraft’s proven durability is backed by the best product support in the industry, which means it will be consistently ready to dispatch on a wide variety of missions.”
The PC-12 Spectre is scheduled to be delivered to the Phoenix Police Department in September and their goal is to have the aircraft operational in 2010. The aircraft will join their fleet of eight helicopters and replace several smaller fixed-wing aircraft that had been operated for decades. The Phoenix Police Air Support Unit provides service to 1.57 million Phoenix residents encompassing an area of more than 500 square miles.
The PC-12 Spectre provides a true multi-mission surveillance aircraft available to meet today’s operational realities and tightening budgets. Featuring a retractable surveillance platform, Primus Apex avionics suite, and a pressurized reconfigurable cabin, the PC-12 Spectre has set a new standard for multi-mission aircraft capability. Strong performance, fuel efficiency, and a rugged airframe suitable for military missions make it the ideal special mission platform for today’s government and law enforcement agencies.
Western Opens New Interior Shop
Western Aircraft, located on Gowen Field in Boise, Idaho, has added a 10,000-sq-ft interior shop that focuses on major interior refurbishments for large business jets and turboprops. “We do interior design and sales for everything from cabinetry to soft goods,” said Ken Hawk, vice president of FBO services. The company is an authorized service center, certified aircraft repair station and distributor of parts and avionics for Dassault Falcon, Pilatus, Hawker Beechcraft, Honeywell and Collins.
PC-12s at Wilson Air
Wilson Air Center’s Memphis, Tenn. FBO hosted the 13th annual Pilatus Owners and Pilots Association meeting in June, AIN reports. There were 35 PC-12s that made the trip to Memphis for classes on PT6 engine operation and avionics, a one-day PC-12 ground school, product demonstrations and exhibits. “This is a special time to exchange technical and operational requirements while visiting with owners, friends and pilots of the great PC-12,” said Wilson Air Center president, founder and PC-12 pilot and owner Bob Wilson.
Porter Arrives in Nepali Skies
Fifty years after the first Pilatus Porter made the long journey from Switzerland to Nepal, the rugged single-engine aircraft is staging a comeback in the Himalaya. By a happy coincidence, that first aircraft was nicknamed ‘Yeti’, and it is Yeti Airlines that has just taken delivery of two brand new latest model Pilatus Porters to re-open roadless areas of the country. “The Pilatus Porter has a proven record of performance for flying to remote areas of Nepal, it has shown it can do the job anytime and almost anywhere,” says Yeti’s Ang Tshiring Sherpa, “it fits nicely between a helicopter and a Twin Otter and we want to use it to open up the far west.” Yeti Airlines, which flies to more destinations than any other airline in Nepal, bought the two Pilatus Porter PC-6s to extend its reach to airfields which can’t take Twin Otters.
In the past 50 years, Pilatus Porters have been flown by the United Nations, the Swiss development agency and Royal Nepal Airlines. In those years, PC-6 have done just about everything: they have dropped live goats by parachute for mountaineering expeditions, carried text books and vaccines to remote villages in western Nepal, ferried grain to Humla during the 1982 food crisis, flown orange saplings for orchards in Jumla and taken international celebrities for new year parties at Syangboche.
In the past 50 years, Pilatus Porters have been flown by the United Nations, the Swiss development agency and Royal Nepal Airlines. In those years, PC-6 have done just about everything: they have dropped live goats by parachute for mountaineering expeditions, carried text books and vaccines to remote villages in western Nepal, ferried grain to Humla during the 1982 food crisis, flown orange saplings for orchards in Jumla and taken international celebrities for new year parties at Syangboche.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Greenwich AeroGroup Names Jim Ziegler CEO
Greenwich AeroGroup, Inc. named Jim Ziegler as President and Chief Executive Officer of the company. Prior to joining Greenwich AeroGroup, Mr. Ziegler was the COO of Jet Aviation, spent 21 years with Learjet and Bombardier Inc. in various senior executive management roles. “I am extremely excited to join Greenwich AeroGroup,” commented Mr. Ziegler. “They have positioned themselves to be a major player in the aircraft MRO service business with their acquisitions of Atlantic Aero, Western Aircraft, Summit Aviation, and recently announced agreement to acquire Banner Aerospace. The next few years present an enormous opportunity to create a worldwide network to support OEM’s and aircraft operators. I look forward to expanding the business and building a world class team.”
Pilatus Centre UK Opens PC-12 Facility
Pilatus Aircraft's distributor for the UK, Ireland and Spain has opened a PC-12 engineering and flight training facility at Bournemouth International airport in southern England. Pilatus Centre UK has invested £425,000 ($696,000) in upgrading and converting a former Second World War and BAC hangar into a one-stop support centre for new and pre-owned PC-12s.
Seaport Airlines Picked to Fly in Arkansas
SeaPort Airlines of Oregon will provide service to four Arkansas airports if the airline accepts a smaller contract from the U.S. Department of Transportation. Transportation officials have selected SeaPort to provide service from Harrison, Hot Springs, Jonesboro and El Dorado to Memphis on a 9-seat Pilatus PC-12. The airline asked for almost $7.1 million in subsidies for three daily flights from each airport. The Transportation Department has offered about $6 million for 18 flights a week with reduced service on the weekend.
Yeti Airlines to Fly PC-6 in More Remote Places
Yeti Airlines is all set to expand its network by launching flights to remote places in Nepal that are unattended by many airline companies. They will soon start chartered flights to Langtang, Jiri, Dhorpatan and Syangboche. Single-engine aircraft, which have short take-off and landing capability, are vital for airlines serving small airfields located in high altitudes. Pilatus Porter was first used in Nepal in May 1960 to ferry transportation and climbing equipment of Swiss Dhaulagiri Himalaya Expedition. Nepal Airlines Corporation, the state-owned airline company, also used three Pilatus Porters from 1961 to 1998.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Pro Star Delivers its First PC-12 NG
Pilatus announced that its newest PC-12 Sales and Service Center, Pro Star Aviation of Londonderry, New Hampshire, has just completed its first customer delivery of a PC-12 NG. This is an important event for Pro Star as it continues to build on the outstanding success of the world’s best-selling business turboprop.
Beginning in January 2009, Pro Star was awarded the exclusive PC-12 sales and service rights to the northeastern United States. Its territory includes Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont.
Henry Laughlin, CEO of Pro Star Pilatus Center commented, “We are delighted to deliver our first PC-12 NG to an important New Jersey based customer. We have no doubt the aircraft will perform all mission requirements flawlessly and we are excited to build upon this important company milestone.”
Thomas Bosshard, President and CEO of Pilatus Business Aircraft, Ltd. added, “Pro Star Pilatus Center is a significant new addition to the worldwide PC-12 Sales and Service Network. Current and future PC-12 owners will certainly benefit from their customer-first attitude and their extensive turbine aircraft expertise. Congratulations on the first of what will soon be many great milestones for Pro Star.”
With strategic locations throughout the northeast including Caldwell, New Jersey and Portland, Maine, Pro-Star Pilatus Center is promoting and supporting PC-12 NG sales and service to build further brand awareness in the region.
Beginning in January 2009, Pro Star was awarded the exclusive PC-12 sales and service rights to the northeastern United States. Its territory includes Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont.
Henry Laughlin, CEO of Pro Star Pilatus Center commented, “We are delighted to deliver our first PC-12 NG to an important New Jersey based customer. We have no doubt the aircraft will perform all mission requirements flawlessly and we are excited to build upon this important company milestone.”
Thomas Bosshard, President and CEO of Pilatus Business Aircraft, Ltd. added, “Pro Star Pilatus Center is a significant new addition to the worldwide PC-12 Sales and Service Network. Current and future PC-12 owners will certainly benefit from their customer-first attitude and their extensive turbine aircraft expertise. Congratulations on the first of what will soon be many great milestones for Pro Star.”
With strategic locations throughout the northeast including Caldwell, New Jersey and Portland, Maine, Pro-Star Pilatus Center is promoting and supporting PC-12 NG sales and service to build further brand awareness in the region.
Dexter to Launch Air Taxi Service in Siberia
Russian air taxi service Dexter plans to launch air taxi services in the Siberian Federal District, Yevgeny Andrachnikov, director of the air taxi project, announced in May. Dexter plans to make customized flights between cities located up to 2,000 kilometers from each other on eight-seat Pilatus PC-12 planes, Andrachnikov said. Dexter was founded in 2004. It was established by Russia’s Industrial Investors Group and aviation holding Kaskol. Dexter currently operates in the Central, Volga and Northwest federal districts and recently started making flights in the Urals Federal District. The company plans to set up a national network with a fleet of 70-80 planes in all of Russia’s big cities and transport centers by 2013.
Yeti Flies the PC-6
Yeti Airlines has selected the PC-6 for operations in Kathmandu, Nepal. Yeti placed an order for two of the type for cargo services, as well as business and tourist flights in the mountainous Himalayan region. It’s difficult to find many half-century-old aircraft designs, although the rugged Pilatus PC-6 just celebrated 50 years in the sky. The PC-6 recorded its maiden sortie on 4 May 1959 and Pilatus hopes to deliver its 1,000th PC-6 in 2012, with between five and 10 built every year.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Delivery of the 900th PC-12
Pilatus Aircraft is pleased to announce a major program milestone on Apr 30 with the delivery of the 900th PC-12. At a celebration at the company’s US headquarters in Broomfield, Colorado, owner Ron Roma accepted the keys to his new aircraft from Pat Epps, President of Epps Aviation, the factory authorized Pilatus Center for the southeastern United States based in Atlanta, Georgia.
Roma, who has owned no less than four new PC-12s previously, not only has the distinction of owning the milestone aircraft, a brand new 2009 PC-12 NG, but also for taking delivery of his 5th new PC-12 from Pilatus.
Roma explained, “Why do I keep coming back? I’ve flown PC-12s for many years now on personal flights with my family and for business. I have flown all over the United States and around the world twice in them. The aircraft is extremely solid and reliable. Pilatus engineering just nailed it when they originally designed it and since then they have made very thoughtful improvements over the years. The PC-12 is just a great thing that keeps getting better, and now I’ll have the latest with the PC-12 NG.”
Thomas Bosshard, President and CEO of Pilatus Business Aircraft, Ltd., added, “Ron has been a tremendous customer to Pilatus and it’s impossible to overstate how much we appreciate his business. The 900th delivery is a very proud moment in the PC-12 program, which is why we are so pleased to deliver this milestone aircraft to him. He will certainly put it to work, and we are anxious to hear about the new adventures he’ll have in his PC-12 NG.”
Roma, who has owned no less than four new PC-12s previously, not only has the distinction of owning the milestone aircraft, a brand new 2009 PC-12 NG, but also for taking delivery of his 5th new PC-12 from Pilatus.
Roma explained, “Why do I keep coming back? I’ve flown PC-12s for many years now on personal flights with my family and for business. I have flown all over the United States and around the world twice in them. The aircraft is extremely solid and reliable. Pilatus engineering just nailed it when they originally designed it and since then they have made very thoughtful improvements over the years. The PC-12 is just a great thing that keeps getting better, and now I’ll have the latest with the PC-12 NG.”
Thomas Bosshard, President and CEO of Pilatus Business Aircraft, Ltd., added, “Ron has been a tremendous customer to Pilatus and it’s impossible to overstate how much we appreciate his business. The 900th delivery is a very proud moment in the PC-12 program, which is why we are so pleased to deliver this milestone aircraft to him. He will certainly put it to work, and we are anxious to hear about the new adventures he’ll have in his PC-12 NG.”
PC-12 NG for Finnish Air Force
Pilatus Aircraft Ltd has been awarded a contract by the Air Force Command Finland for the delivery of 6 PC-12 NG aircraft to the Finnish Air Force to replace their existing Liaison Aircraft. The procurement contract, worth € 22.5 million, was agreed and signed at a ceremony in Tikkakoski on Friday attended by the Commander of the Finnish Air Force, Major General Jarmo Lindberg and Jim Roche, Vice President in charge of Government Aviation at Pilatus. Delivery of the 6 PC-12 NG Liaison Aircraft will be made during the final quarter of 2010.
Following more than 12 months of assessment and an extensive flight evaluation phase in Stans, Switzerland and Iqaluit, Canada, Pilatus was able to prevail against international competition and succeeded in securing this very important contract with its PC-12 NG aircraft.
Commenting on the contract award, Pilatus Chairman and CEO, Oscar J. Schwenk, stated: “We are extremely happy to have been awarded this important contract. This decision is further proof of the versatility of the PC-12 NG, which can fulfil the needs of military operators due to its proven multi-role capabilities. We believe this will encourage other Air Forces in Europe and around the globe to look closer at the performance and capabilities of this unique platform. With ever shrinking military budgets, the durability, efficiency and the life cycle cost of the PC-12 NG are key parameters for today’s decision makers. With more than 860 PC-12 aircraft operating every day – on all five continents – in some of the toughest environmental conditions possible, the PC-12 is fast becoming a legend in its own lifetime. Once again we are proud to have been selected and we welcome the Finnish Air Force in to the ‘Pilatus Family’”.
The decision by the Finnish Air Force to purchase the Pilatus PC-12 is a significant benchmark for Pilatus as it marks the first fleet sale of the PC-12 to a European Air Force. The Finnish Air Force joins 32 other Air Forces around the world operating Pilatus aircraft.
The PC-12 NG aircraft with its outstanding versatility, performance and operational flexibility will be used in a Multi Purpose Liaison Aircraft role to transport Finnish air force personnel and cargo and will ultimately replace the Piper PA-31-350 Chieftain aircraft which has been in service with the Finnish Air Force since 1983.
Following more than 12 months of assessment and an extensive flight evaluation phase in Stans, Switzerland and Iqaluit, Canada, Pilatus was able to prevail against international competition and succeeded in securing this very important contract with its PC-12 NG aircraft.
Commenting on the contract award, Pilatus Chairman and CEO, Oscar J. Schwenk, stated: “We are extremely happy to have been awarded this important contract. This decision is further proof of the versatility of the PC-12 NG, which can fulfil the needs of military operators due to its proven multi-role capabilities. We believe this will encourage other Air Forces in Europe and around the globe to look closer at the performance and capabilities of this unique platform. With ever shrinking military budgets, the durability, efficiency and the life cycle cost of the PC-12 NG are key parameters for today’s decision makers. With more than 860 PC-12 aircraft operating every day – on all five continents – in some of the toughest environmental conditions possible, the PC-12 is fast becoming a legend in its own lifetime. Once again we are proud to have been selected and we welcome the Finnish Air Force in to the ‘Pilatus Family’”.
The decision by the Finnish Air Force to purchase the Pilatus PC-12 is a significant benchmark for Pilatus as it marks the first fleet sale of the PC-12 to a European Air Force. The Finnish Air Force joins 32 other Air Forces around the world operating Pilatus aircraft.
The PC-12 NG aircraft with its outstanding versatility, performance and operational flexibility will be used in a Multi Purpose Liaison Aircraft role to transport Finnish air force personnel and cargo and will ultimately replace the Piper PA-31-350 Chieftain aircraft which has been in service with the Finnish Air Force since 1983.
Pilatus Reports Another Good Year
More record figures at Pilatus Aircraft Ltd in 2008: sales (CHF 661 million), incoming orders (CHF 988 million) and order volume at end of 2008 (CHF 1,197 million), were higher than ever. Other results were also encouraging, with a record number of PC-12 deliveries in 2008 (97). All in all, a total of 114 aircraft left the Stans work halls. And Pilatus is entirely debt-free. In spite of higher sales, operating profit (CHF 55 million) was slightly lower than in 2007 (CHF 59 million), due principally to the weak US dollar.
PC-12 sales remained buoyant. One of the big events of the year was the certification of the new PC-12 NG, which took place on 28 March 2008 in Europe and the USA. Certifications have since also been obtained in Canada, Brazil, South Africa, Australia and Russia. 15 years after the PC-12 was launched, business is still booming, mainly thanks to the new PC-12 NG: 73 of these aircraft have already been delivered to their new owners. Our Business Unit General Aviation contributed 61 percent of total Pilatus turnover in the year under review.
Government Aviation reported a good year too, with orders from the Republic of Singapore Air Force for delivery of 19 PC-21 training systems, and from the Swiss Air Force for delivery of six PC-21 training systems. The company’s Customer Support and After Sales Service team also received an order from South Africa for a new avionics system is to be installed in 35 PC-7 MkIIs. A contract for cockpit refits on a further 10 Swiss Air Force PC-7s was signed in 2008. The workshops in Altenrhein had full order books, too, particularly with the maintenance and modification of DHC-6 Twin Otters made by Canadian manufacturer, Viking Air Ltd.
The Pilatus Porter still offers certain flying characteristics which remain unmatched by any other aircraft. 3 new, and 2 second-hand, Pilatus Porter PC-6s were sold in 2008. Pilatus is now developing a modern glass cockpit for the PC-6.
PC-12 sales remained buoyant. One of the big events of the year was the certification of the new PC-12 NG, which took place on 28 March 2008 in Europe and the USA. Certifications have since also been obtained in Canada, Brazil, South Africa, Australia and Russia. 15 years after the PC-12 was launched, business is still booming, mainly thanks to the new PC-12 NG: 73 of these aircraft have already been delivered to their new owners. Our Business Unit General Aviation contributed 61 percent of total Pilatus turnover in the year under review.
Government Aviation reported a good year too, with orders from the Republic of Singapore Air Force for delivery of 19 PC-21 training systems, and from the Swiss Air Force for delivery of six PC-21 training systems. The company’s Customer Support and After Sales Service team also received an order from South Africa for a new avionics system is to be installed in 35 PC-7 MkIIs. A contract for cockpit refits on a further 10 Swiss Air Force PC-7s was signed in 2008. The workshops in Altenrhein had full order books, too, particularly with the maintenance and modification of DHC-6 Twin Otters made by Canadian manufacturer, Viking Air Ltd.
The Pilatus Porter still offers certain flying characteristics which remain unmatched by any other aircraft. 3 new, and 2 second-hand, Pilatus Porter PC-6s were sold in 2008. Pilatus is now developing a modern glass cockpit for the PC-6.
Pilatus Announces Changes to Senior Management
The Board of Directors of Pilatus Aircraft Ltd has approved the following change to the Senior Management. Bruno Cervia from Buochs (NW) has been elected as the new Head of Research & Development. Mr Cervia, who holds a Masters Degree in Aeronautical Engineering, has worked for Pilatus in various management functions since 1986.
He has been in charge of developing new products over the past 12 years, and made a substantial contribution to the success of the Pilatus PC-21 turboprop training aircraft. Pilatus is delighted to have found a new occupant for this management position from amongst its own ranks.
The new appointment is prompted by the departure of the former job holder, John Senior, and will take effect on 1 May 2009. Pilatus thanks John Senior for his outstanding work over the past 20 years, and regrets his departure and subsequent return to England.
He has been in charge of developing new products over the past 12 years, and made a substantial contribution to the success of the Pilatus PC-21 turboprop training aircraft. Pilatus is delighted to have found a new occupant for this management position from amongst its own ranks.
The new appointment is prompted by the departure of the former job holder, John Senior, and will take effect on 1 May 2009. Pilatus thanks John Senior for his outstanding work over the past 20 years, and regrets his departure and subsequent return to England.
Friday, April 3, 2009
“The Neue Generation”
“The uber turboprop gets a major upgrade in its new NG guise” says an article in the March/April 2009 issue of P1, a new business aviation magazine from the UK. Be sure not to miss this one if you can find a copy. Author Stan Hodgkins says “The immediate impression is that this is one big ship!”The magazine is published by Loop Publishing (UK) Ltd.
“A Titan Among Turboprops”
The PC-12 NG is also featured in Fly Corporate Magazine in a great piece by Jack Caroll.
Read it here:
PlaneSense Expands in Bahamas
PlaneSense, Alpha Flying’s Pilatus PC-12 fractional aircraft ownership program, has added seven airports in the Bahamas to its primary operating area. New airports include: Chub Cay and Great Harbor Cay (Berry Islands), Congo Town (Andros), New Bright (Cat Island), Cockburn Town (San Salvador), Spanish Cay (Abaco) and Stella Maris (Long Island).
SeaPort Begins Newport and Astoria Service
Using PC-12s, SeaPort Airlines began flying daily flights from Portland to Astoria and Newport, giving the Oregon Coast its first daily commercial air service in more than a decade. The airline's nine-seat turbo props will fly to Astoria and Newport five times each day. SeaPort also flies into Seattle, Astoria, and Pendleton through PDX. SeaPort is offered introductory fares as low as $49 each way to and from PDX. In addition to the Oregon Coast, SeaPort airlines also flies daily to Pendleton.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
New wings for Royal Flying Doctors Service
The Central Operations of the Royal Flying Doctor Service plans to modernize its aircraft fleet with five single-engine Pilatus PC-12 aircraft for delivery next year, to replace the five oldest PC-12s in the present fleet. The new aircraft will provide higher take-off weight and longer range than the original aircraft, which arrived in Australia from the Swiss manufacturer during 1995. Central Operations, which covers South Australia and much of the Northern Territory, brought its 11th PC-12 into service at the Alice Springs base last year. Operations manager, Barry Hocking said the latest 47E (new generation) version of the PC-12 would have improved performance, particularly increased take-off weight, which would enable extra fuel to be carried.
SeaPort Airlines to start Astoria service
The Port of Astoria Commission approved an air service revenue guarantee with SeaPort Airlines. Pending approval from the Newport City Council and review by the Oregon Department of Transportation, SeaPort will begin offering passenger flights from the coast to Portland will begin March 15. SeaPort has agreed to provide at least three nonstop flights every day in each direction between Astoria and Portland and at least two daily flights between Newport and Portland in nine-passenger Pilatus PC-12 planes. SeaPort will shuttle passengers arriving at Portland International Airport from the SeaPort terminal to the main terminal.
PC-12 for Air Idaho
Air Idaho will be adding a brand-new, top of the line PC-12 to its rescue team, enhancing the ability to transport patients farther and faster. The plane will be based at the Idaho Falls Airport to ensure rapid response for patients in need.
PlaneSmart adds PC-12 to its fleet
PlaneSmart! Aviation announced that it is adding the Pilatus PC-12 to its fleet of aircraft available to customers. The first of the new line-up of turboprops is scheduled to arrive in early 2Q 2009. As with all its aircraft, PlaneSmart! will professionally manage the new Pilatus and make equity shares available in increments as small as one quarter. The company will coordinate pilot services on behalf of its customers, and provide mentor pilots for shareowners who wish to qualify to fly the airplane themselves. PlaneSmart! President and CEO, Michael Brosler, stated, "We are excited to include the PC-12 in the suite of aircraft available to our clients. This plane offers business class seating for up to 10 passengers and responds to numerous requests from business and individual customers alike. In conjunction with a technologically advanced fleet of Cirrus aircraft, and an Eclipse 500 Very Light Jet, PlaneSmart! offers an efficient transportation solution that satisfies the majority of air travel needs."
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