Post by andypspotter on Feb 8, 2018 22:44:57 GMT
Pilatus Business Aircraft formally began deliveries of the PC-24, handing over the first to fractional ownership provider PlaneSense during a ceremony held yesterday in Broomfield, Colorado. Pilatus CEO Markus Bucher handed over the keys to the first PC-24, S/N101, to PlaneSense. “We’ve been eagerly working toward this moment since the conception of this innovative new jet a decade ago,” Bucher said.
PlaneSense, which has six of the twinjets on order, has been a 22-year Pilatus customer with 36 of the Swiss manufacturer’s PC-12 turboprop singles in its fleet.
“We are honored to be the launch customer for the PC-24 and are excited to add this versatile and unique jet to the PlaneSense fleet,” said George Antoniadis, PlaneSense founder, president and CEO. “This is an exciting day for us, as well as for our clients who are eager to start flying in this fantastic aircraft.”
PlaneSense pilots earned type ratings in the new jet at FlightSafety International’s Dallas Learning Center, where the first full-motion, level-D, PC-24 simulator is based. FlightSafety, the official provider of PC-24 maintenance training, also has begun conducting maintenance training for PlaneSense and authorized Pilatus service center personnel as part of an integrated entry into service program.
PlaneSense will complete FAA requirements to add the new type to its fleet before embarking on a tour with U.S. and international locations to showcase the new aircraft.
The delivery follows U.S. FAA and European Aviation Safety Agency certification of the light jet on December 7. The Swiss manufacturer said it plans to deliver 23 PC-24 to customers this year. Launched in 2013, the $8.9 million aircraft can fly at 440 ktas, has a range of 2,035 nm, can take off on a 2,810-foot runway. The aircraft can fly up to FL450 and carry 11 passengers.
PlaneSense, which has six of the twinjets on order, has been a 22-year Pilatus customer with 36 of the Swiss manufacturer’s PC-12 turboprop singles in its fleet.
“We are honored to be the launch customer for the PC-24 and are excited to add this versatile and unique jet to the PlaneSense fleet,” said George Antoniadis, PlaneSense founder, president and CEO. “This is an exciting day for us, as well as for our clients who are eager to start flying in this fantastic aircraft.”
PlaneSense pilots earned type ratings in the new jet at FlightSafety International’s Dallas Learning Center, where the first full-motion, level-D, PC-24 simulator is based. FlightSafety, the official provider of PC-24 maintenance training, also has begun conducting maintenance training for PlaneSense and authorized Pilatus service center personnel as part of an integrated entry into service program.
PlaneSense will complete FAA requirements to add the new type to its fleet before embarking on a tour with U.S. and international locations to showcase the new aircraft.
The delivery follows U.S. FAA and European Aviation Safety Agency certification of the light jet on December 7. The Swiss manufacturer said it plans to deliver 23 PC-24 to customers this year. Launched in 2013, the $8.9 million aircraft can fly at 440 ktas, has a range of 2,035 nm, can take off on a 2,810-foot runway. The aircraft can fly up to FL450 and carry 11 passengers.