Starting from the 2024 deliveries of new aircraft, Pilatus has expanded the payload-range capability of its Super Versatile Jet to a maximum of 2,000 nautical miles (3,704 kilometres) when carrying six passengers. In addition, Pilatus integrated various novel interior features, such as a sizable divan with a side profile that can be transformed into a bed.
The new PC-24 has an increased maximum payload capacity and a complete fuel payload of 272 kilogrammes (600 pounds). With six onboard passengers, operators can expand the PC-24’s greatest range by 200 nautical miles (370 kilometres). The PC-24 now has a class-leading maximal payload capacity of 3,100 pounds (1,406 kg) and a fuel payload equivalent to a single pilot plus 1,315 pounds (596 kg).
The payload increase was accomplished by optimising wing and fuselage structural elements to decrease the airframe empty weight while concurrently increasing the maximum gross takeoff weight limit, explained Bruno Cervia, vice president of engineering for Pilatus. It is the epitome of Swiss engineering, he said.
Pilatus engineers undertook a comprehensive series of flight tests to enlarge the entire envelope to accommodate the increased design weights. Considering the maximum takeoff weight of the PC-24, the balanced field length at sea level is an impressive 3,090 feet (941 metres), which enables the operation of exceedingly brief and unpaved runways.
In-Flight Entertainment System and Divan
In addition to having the most spacious cabin volume of its category, the new PC-24 has received several improvements to its interior to enhance the overall flight experience for passengers. By optimising the ducting of the passenger service unit, installing noise-absorbing panels, and adjusting the engine ancillary air intake ducts, ambient noise levels have been reduced. Cabinetry, stowage areas, and the Welcome Centre have all been streamlined to maximise the PC-24’s enormous cabin volume.
In collaboration with Lufthansa Technik, Pilatus implemented a novel integrated Cabin Management System (iCMS) that encompassed the following components: a mood lighting system, USB connections, a media storage server, and four high-fidelity cabin speakers with the option for a subwoofer.
Pilatus offers, for the first time in this category of business aircraft, a 6-foot-6-inch (1.98-meter) long, side-facing divan that can be converted into a bed while in flight.
Predictive maintenance procedures
All PC-24s will get a new feature at serial number 501 to help with predictive services. The process by which crucial aeroplane data is automatically transmitted to Pilatus upon touchdown will be investigated. In cases when it is thought necessary, the operator will be given a predicted recommendation.
CEO Markus Bucher said that enhanced comfort, increased operability, increased range, and increased payload were the principal objectives of this significant PC-24 enhancement programme. The PC-24 upgrade encompasses more than one thousand modifications across the entire aircraft. He said the Super Versatile Jet has undergone an unprecedented transformation, rendering it the only business jet on the market to deliver exceptional performance consistently.
The inaugural PC-24, featuring the novel convertible divan, will be on static exhibit from October 17-19 at the National Business Aviation Association Annual Convention in Las Vegas.
