New Pilatus PC-24 features increased range, payload

The new Pilatus PC-24 has arrived, with an array of new features and amenities and new aircraft deliveries beginning in 2024. The new and improved PC-24 has a 600-pound increase in full fuel payload and payload capacity. The extended payload-range capability allows for a maximum range with six passengers of 2,000 nautical miles, a 200 nm improvement. The PC-24 has a full fuel payload of a single pilot plus 1,315 pounds, featuring a class-leading maximum payload capacity of 3,100 pounds. "The payload increase was achieved by refining both wing and fuselage structural elements to reduce the airframe empty weight while simultaneously increasing the maximum gross take-off weight limit," Pilatus VP of Engineering Bruno Cervia said. "It's simply Swiss engineering at its best." The team of Pilatus engineers conducted extensive flight testing to expand the whole envelope for the higher design weights. At the PC-24's maximum takeoff weight, the balanced field length at sea level is only 3,090 feet, which allows for the use of short and even unpaved runways. The PC-24 already offers the largest cabin volume in its class and the new model has certain enhancements to improve the overall passenger flight experience. Ambient sound levels are reduced through the optimization of the passenger service unit ducting, noise-absorbing panels and tuned engine accessory air intake ducts. Cabinetry, storage areas and the Welcome Center have been refined to optimize the cabin space in the PC-24. Pilatus partnered with Lufthansa Technik to incorporate a new integrated Cabin Management System that features a 10-inch touchscreen controller with a 3D moving map, four high-fidelity speakers with a sub-woofer option, USB ports, mood lighting and a media storage server. As a first for its class of business aircraft, the PC-24 is offering the option for a large side-facing divan, measuring six feet and six inches in length, and can be converted into a bed during flight. All PC-24 aircraft with serial number 501 and onwards will be equipped with a new feature to enable predictive services. The automated data transmission of key aircraft data directly to Pilatus during the landing phase will be analyzed and, if needed, a predictive recommendation will be made to the operator. The first new PC-24 will show off its new convertible divan on static display at NBAA-BACE in Las Vegas, Nevada from Oct. 17-19. "More range, greater payload, enhanced comfort and increased operability were the primary focus of this major PC-24 improvement program," CEO Markus Bucher said. "The PC-24 upgrade includes over 1,000 modifications throughout the aircraft. Yet again, we went all the way to the limits of what is possible, making maximum use of our engineering capabilities to deliver the best PC-24 ever. With this major upgrade, there is simply no other business jet on the market capable of consistently performing like our Super Versatile Jet."