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“The overwhelming top priority is safety. We take a lot of pride in the fact that the platform itself, which has forever been the PC-12 and, more recently, the PC-24, is safe. For example, the accident rate in the PC-12 is lower than a lot of comparable platforms. We think that’s a combination of the great airplane and, more importantly, the seriousness of the pro pilot and owner-pilot community that flies these aircraft. And POPA itself is a fantastic resource for helping drive safety in the fleet.”
The increased number of accident-free operations, he contended, is enabled by an enthusiastic membership base that’s willing to get together and be introspective about their flying abilities. Each year, the organization hosts a two-day long conference that engages members through training, insightful speakers, and presentations from in- dustry partners. This year, the 28th Annual Operations & Safety Conference is planned for June 5th through the 7th at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
The emphasis on safety occurs outside the walls of the convention center, as well. POPA offers a unique training offering tailored for transitioning pilots.
“We do things to encourage our members to train more than is required, especially in the simulators, by providing a very significant discount for FlightSafety International training and discounts for SIMCOM as well,” Bell began. “The TPPI (Transitioning Pilatus Pilot Initiative) is designed for new owners and pilots transitioning to the PC-12. If [they
have] less than 150 hours in type, we will cover the cost of an additional course through FlightSafety. Additionally, our discounts for training with SIMCOM and Aviation Perfor- mance Solutions (LOC-I courses) are all beneficial to our members,” Mason added.
In addition to the convention and tailored training rec- ommendations, POPA has a quarterly published magazine, as well as a member forum. This chat board is integral in keeping members active throughout the year and is a breed- ing ground for productive discussion.
“The forum is our most dynamic and ongoing membership benefit. The way we engage with the community, and they engage with each other, is also a fantastic place not only to pick up ideas, stories, and information that will help make you a safer pilot but also just tips and tricks for operating the plane and saving money here and there,” Bell said.
Some recent highlights in the forum include maintenance issues people are dealing with, correct procedures for in- ternational flights (flight plan filing, border controls, etc.), debriefing accident reports, a member’s adventurous flight, including one to the North Pole, tips on getting insurance coverage, and recommendations on airport and FBOs to use when flying to a new area, such as Alaska.
In addition to the forum, in-person networking oppor- tunities with other owner pilots are a key benefit of the group. Speaking with fellow Pilatus aviators provides a natu-
Members greet each other at the conference
14 • TWIN & TURBINE / February 2024