Beginning with new aircraft deliveries in 2024, Pilatus’ PC-24 ‘Super Versatile Jet’ will come with an extended payload-range capability – a maximum range of 2,000 nautical miles (3,704km) with six passengers. The update also includes new interior amenities including a large side-facing divan that can be converted into a bed.
The new PC-24 features a 600 lb (272kg) increase in full fuel payload and maximum payload capacity. This enables operators to increase the aircraft’s maximum range by 200 nautical miles (370km) with six passengers. The PC-24 now offers a full fuel payload of a single pilot plus 1,315 lb (596kg) and features a maximum payload capacity of 3,100 lb (1,406kg).
“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,” said Bruno Cervia, VP of engineering for Pilatus. “It’s simply Swiss engineering at its best.”
Pilatus engineers conducted an extensive flight test campaign to expand the entire envelope for the higher design weights. At the PC-24’s maximum take-off weight, balanced field length at sea level is 3,090ft (941m), allowing the use of very short and even unpaved runways.
Interior updates
The new PC-24 also has enhancements designed to improve the overall passenger flight experience. Ambient sound levels have been reduced through optimisation of passenger service unit ducting, noise absorbing panels, and tuned engine accessory air intake ducts. Cabinetry, storage areas and the Welcome Center have all been refined to optimise space in the cabin.
Pilatus partnered with Lufthansa Technik to incorporate a new integrated Cabin Management System (iCMS) featuring a 10in touchscreen controller with 3D moving map; four high-fidelity cabin speakers with a sub-woofer option; mood lighting; USB ports; and a media storage server.
Finally, Pilatus is offering the option of a side-facing divan that is 6ft 6in (1.98m) in length, and can be converted into a bed in flight.
Predictive maintenance
All PC-24s from serial number 501 onwards will be equipped with a new feature to enable predictive services. The automated data transmission of key aircraft data directly to Pilatus upon landing will be analysed and, if necessary, a predictive recommendation is made to the operator.
“More range, greater payload, enhanced comfort and increased operability were the primary focus of this major PC-24 improvement programme,” said Markus Bucher, CEO. “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.”
The first new PC-24, which will showcase the new convertible divan, will be on static display at NBAA-BACE 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada, on 17-19 October.
