Enhancing Business Jet Operations with the Versatile Pilatus PC-24

The Pilatus PC-24 is a highly versatile business jet that excels in a variety of conditions, making it an ideal choice for discerning travelers. Designed and manufactured by Pilatus Aircraft, the PC-24 offers impressive performance capabilities combined with a spacious and comfortable cabin. This jet is known for its ability to operate from shorter runways, opening up a wider range of airports and airfields for travel. 

These experiences include efficient ground handling, which ensures seamless arrival and departure procedures at airports worldwide. Permit coordination, fueling arrangements, and catering services are meticulously managed to facilitate smooth and hassle-free journeys. Whether for business or pleasure, this extraordinary aircraft sets new standards in private aviation, offering the perfect blend of advanced technology and uncompromised comfort.

The PC-24 has a maximum cruise speed of 440 knots (815 kilometers per hour). This allows for efficient and timely travel between destinations, reducing flight durations compared to slower aircraft. The PC-24 has a maximum range of approximately 2,035 nautical miles (3,765 kilometers) with full fuel and four passengers on board. 

This range allows for non-stop flights between many major city pairs. The PC-24 can accommodate up to 11 passengers in a typical configuration, including the pilot. However, it can be configured with fewer seats for more spacious arrangements or additional options like a lavatory or additional storage space.

The PC-24 is powered by two Williams FJ44-4A turbofan engines and utilizes jet fuel (usually Jet A or Jet A-1) for propulsion. These engines provide the necessary power and efficiency for the aircraft’s performance. One of the key advantages of the PC-24 is its ability to operate from shorter and unimproved runways. 

It has a remarkably short takeoff distance of 2,810 feet (856 meters) and a landing distance of 2,525 feet (770 meters) when operating at maximum takeoff weight. This enables the PC-24 to access smaller airports and airfields that are often closer to the final destination.

To provide an example, the PC-24 can take off from a runway as short as 2,810 feet (856 meters) at maximum takeoff weight, allowing it to operate from airports with limited runway length. It can also land on runways as short as 2,525 feet (770 meters) when landing at maximum landing weight. These capabilities contribute to the PC-24’s versatility and flexibility in accessing a wide range of airports and airfields.

Pilatus PC-24 Flight Management Systems

The Pilatus PC-24 features advanced avionics and cockpit automation systems that enhance the aircraft’s operational capabilities and pilot experience. Here are some details about the avionics and cockpit automation on the PC-24:

Advanced Avionics

The Honeywell Primus Apex integrated avionics suite on the PC-24 includes three high-resolution 12-inch LCD displays: two Primary Flight Displays (PFDs) and one Multi-Function Display (MFD). These displays provide pilots with detailed flight information, including airspeed, altitude, vertical speed, attitude, heading, navigation data, and system status. 

The avionics suite incorporates advanced systems such as a Dual Flight Management System (FMS) with GPS capability, allowing for precise navigation and flight planning. Pilots can input flight plans, waypoints, and approaches into the FMS, which calculates optimized routes and provides lateral and vertical navigation guidance. The system integrates a Weather Radar that displays real-time weather information on the MFD, enabling pilots to avoid hazardous weather conditions and optimize flight routes.

Autopilot System

One unique avionics feature of the PC-24’s autopilot system is its Emergency Descent Mode. In the event of a rapid decompression or an emergency situation requiring a rapid descent, the PC-24’s autopilot can engage the Emergency Descent Mode to assist the pilot in executing a controlled descent to a safe altitude.

In this mode, the autopilot takes over and initiates a steep descent while maintaining a target airspeed. The autopilot commands the aircraft to descend at a high rate, typically around 4,000 to 6,000 feet per minute, ensuring a quick descent to a safe altitude where the crew and passengers can breathe normally without supplemental oxygen.

During the emergency descent, the autopilot coordinates with other avionics systems such as the cabin pressurization system and the flight controls to ensure a smooth and controlled descent. It also provides necessary alerts and annunciations to the crew, including guidance on when it is safe to level off.

Cockpit Automation

The PC-24 may incorporate advanced safety features such as an Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS), which provides visual and audio alerts to prevent controlled flight into terrain (CFIT) incidents. It monitors the aircraft’s position and terrain databases to warn pilots of potential collision risks. The Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) alerts pilots to the presence of nearby aircraft and provides guidance to avoid potential collisions. 

It displays traffic information on the cockpit displays and issues advisories and resolution advisories (RAs) if necessary. The PC-24 can also be equipped with a weather radar system that displays real-time weather information, such as precipitation and storm cells, on the MFD. This helps pilots to navigate around adverse weather conditions and select safer flight paths.

Cabin Amenities of Pilatus PC-24

The Pilatus PC-24 offers a range of cabin amenities designed to provide luxury, comfort, and convenience for passengers. Here are some examples of the cabin amenities available in the PC-24:

Seating

The PC-24 offers a wide range of seating options, including executive club seating arrangements. These arrangements typically consist of two or more sets of facing seats with a central table, allowing passengers to have face-to-face discussions or conduct meetings inflight. The seats are often designed with ergonomic considerations, featuring adjustable headrests, lumbar support, and reclining mechanisms. Some seats may also have built-in massage functions for added comfort during long flights.

Entertainment Systems

The PC-24 can be equipped with a cutting-edge in-flight entertainment system to enhance the passenger experience. This system may include high-resolution display screens strategically mounted throughout the cabin. Individual touchscreen controls placed near each seat allow passengers to personalize their entertainment experience, selecting their preferred content and adjusting audio settings.

Galleys

The galley typically features a food preparation area equipped with a countertop, sink, and various storage compartments for utensils, cutlery, and crockery. Additionally, the galley may incorporate features such as ovens or microwaves for warming and cooking meals. This allows for onboard meal preparation, catering to the specific culinary preferences of passengers.

Lavatories

Lavatories on board the PC-24 typically include features such as a sink, toilet, and mirror. High-quality finishes and materials, such as premium flooring and decorative accents, are often incorporated to create an upscale ambiance. Some lavatories may also include additional amenities, such as vanity areas, storage compartments for personal items, and enhanced lighting for a pleasant and refreshing experience.

Pilatus PC-24 Operating Costs

The Pilatus PC-24 is a versatile business jet that combines performance, capability, and comfort to suit a range of operational requirements. Its efficient fuel consumption, average maintenance costs, and crew salaries contribute to the overall ownership costs. Whether it’s for executive travel or specialized missions, the PC-24 offers a reliable and versatile solution for those seeking a high-performing business jet.

Fuel Costs/Efficiency

The Pilatus PC-24, equipped with Williams International FJ44-4A engines, offers impressive fuel efficiency and performance. With an average hourly fuel burn of 160 Gallons ($320 – $480) per Hour (GPH), it balances fuel consumption and power output effectively. The PC-24’s FJ44-4A engines provide a total thrust output of 6,800 lbs, ensuring excellent performance and the ability to operate in various conditions. This combination of fuel efficiency and thrust capability contributes to the PC-24’s overall versatility and cost-effectiveness for business jet operations.

Maintenance Costs

The maintenance costs for the PC-24 can vary depending on several factors, including the aircraft’s usage, the type of maintenance program chosen (e.g., hourly-based or calendar-based maintenance), and the specific operator’s contractual agreements with maintenance providers. On average, the annual maintenance costs for a midsize business jet like the PC-24 can range from $150,000 to $350,000. These costs typically include routine inspections, scheduled maintenance tasks, component replacements, and other necessary upkeep to ensure the aircraft’s airworthiness and compliance with regulatory requirements.

Crew Salaries

The salaries for the crew members of a Pilatus PC-24 can vary based on several factors, including the level of experience, region of operation, and employment arrangements (e.g., employee or contractor). As a rough estimate, the average annual salary for a PC-24 pilot can range from $100,000 to $250,000, depending on the factors mentioned above. The average salary for a PC-24 flight attendant can range from $40,000 to $80,000 per year.

Total Ownership Costs

The total ownership costs of the Pilatus PC-24 encompass a wide range of expenses, including aircraft acquisition, fuel costs, maintenance, crew salaries, insurance, hangar fees, and administrative expenses. On average, the total annual ownership costs for a Pilatus PC-24 can range from $1.2 million to $1.8 million. It’s important to note that these figures are approximate averages, and the actual costs can vary significantly depending on factors such as aircraft utilization, financing terms, geographic location, and other individual factors.

It’s important to consult with aviation professionals, financial advisors, and industry experts for accurate and up-to-date cost estimates specific to individual circumstances and operational profiles.

At Just Aviation, safety is our utmost priority. Including renowned models like the Pilatus PC-24 we offer a range of options to cater to your unique needs. We maintain stringent safety protocols and adhere to industry regulations, implementing advanced technologies and redundancy systems to provide peace of mind to our valued clients.