Pilatus Levaero Aviation is a leading provider of multi-brand support for PC-12 and PC-24 aircraft. Founded in 1997, the company has established a reputation for extending the life of high-time aircraft through its heavy maintenance, overhaul, and modification services.
The PC-24 made its first landing on an unpaved runway as part of post-certification tests with special emphasis on such operations. Pilatus plans to obtain 'Rough Field' certification in the fourth quarter of 2018.
Pilatus PC-12s are used in fire-fighting missions by the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control. Operated from Denver, they assist local agencies with limited resources, identifying fires and providing intelligence on perimeter and behavior.
Firefly Aerospace has awarded a Launch Services Agreement (LSA) to Surrey Satellite Technology Limited (SSTL), allowing the small satellite company to utilize the Firefly Alpha launch vehicle. The agreement, announced June 4, 2018, marks the first time SSTL will use the Alpha launch vehicle, with launches set to begin in early 2020.
Pilatus will present its latest flagship, the PC-24, at EBACE from May 29 to 31 in Geneva. Since deliveries started in February 2018, five customers have received a brand-new PC-24.
Pilatus has opened its new surface treatment centre in Stans, Switzerland, marking the completion of the ambitious 'production 2015' project. With a blue facade and modern facilities, the building offers space for various component surface treatments, including wings and fuselage for all aircraft types.
Firefly Aerospace has received a statement of support from the US Air Force for its program at Vandenberg Air Force Base Space Launch Complex 2 West. The agreement enables Firefly to utilize the existing launch site for future launches, according to Breaking Defense reports.
Get1Jet, a French startup based in the south of France, has been operating its new PC-12 NG since November 2017. The company recognizes the potential for charter flights and offers connections from larger airports to destinations with shorter runways.
Pilatus P-3 Flyers are a civilian aerobatics team founded in 2002, based in Ambri, Switzerland. They fly demonstrations on the Pilatus P-3 throughout Europe, with each aircraft being the personal property of one or two members.
Sabrina Sharkey, the first female demonstration pilot at Pilatus Business Aircraft Ltd., shares her journey from working as a server in an airport restaurant to becoming a pilot. She has flown various aircraft and enjoys the diversity of her job.
Pilatus has obtained type certificates from EASA and FAA for the PC-24 business jet, a milestone marking the end of a complex development project. The aircraft will enter global market with initial deliveries planned in 2018.
On September 9, 2017, Scott Roberts flew his Pilatus PC-12 from Scottsdale to Houston, delivering supplies and relocating 13 dogs from shelters. The mission was coordinated with Wings of Rescue and AERObridge.
Pilatus expects to obtain certification for the PC-24 Super Versatile Jet in December 2017. The aircraft has completed extensive testing, including 1,250 flights for 2,000 hours.
Antti Rautio, a Finnish Air Force test pilot, shares his experiences flying various aircraft, including the Pilatus PC-12 NG. He began his career as a skydiver and later joined the air force before becoming a fighter pilot.
Pilatus develops custom training systems for air forces, including simulators and software. The company's Government Aviation Business Unit creates entire training systems, not just aircraft, to meet each customer's specific requirements.
JB Investments, Poland's leading General Aviation company, celebrated its 25th anniversary in June with a big party attended by PC-12 customers and representatives from Stans. The company has a long-standing relationship with Pilatus, which delivers aircraft to JB Investments.
Pilatus reported a successful business year in 2016, with sales revenue reaching 821 million Swiss francs and operating earnings at 89 million Swiss francs. The company created 56 additional jobs across its Group and delivered 117 aircraft to customers.
Michael Corrigan, Assistant Chief Pilot at PlaneSense, shares his experiences flying the PC-12. He has flown over 2,500 flights in the aircraft and praises its reliability and safety.
Delivery of 91 PC-12 NG single engine turboprops in 2016 solidified Pilatus' position as top-selling turbine-powered business aircraft manufacturer. The company's efforts to enhance product features and customer service contributed to this success.