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limits with new component designs was the most significant benefit. These increased by 440 lbs (200 kg), starting with the maximum ramp weight of 18,840 lbs (8545 kg). The net result was a full-fuel payload increase of 599 lbs to 1314 lbs. Operators can now carry three additional passengers onboard with full fuel.
With the changes, Pilatus had to accomplish a nearly complete flight test program, from ground handling to flutter analysis and steep approaches. The Long Range Cruise (LRC) with NBAA reserves has increased by 200 nm to 2,000 nm with six passengers and one pilot. Granted, most operators fly at higher speeds, so the typical range will be less. However, it does provide the option to operate at a lower cruise speed with a significant range increase.
Performance Changes
At the new weights, the runway performance changed slightly. At an MTOW of 18,740 lbs (8545 kg) sea level and 15C, the takeoff distance increased 170 ft. to 3,090 ft. Landing at the maxi- mum landing weight of 17,340 lb (7,865 kg) at sea level and ISA adds 45 ft. to the total distance—negligible increases for the significant weight increases.
Cabin Comfort
Simultaneous with the structural goals was the enhancement of an already impressive cabin interior. I found the cabin of the PC-24 to be quiet, and the cockpit is one of the quietest I’ve experienced; however, the latest upgrade is even quieter.
Airflow can be a significant source of noise. Pilatus redesigned the air outlets to reduce the noise further and lowered the decibels with a sound- deadening aft curtain. Leaving no stone unturned, Pilatus also rede- signed the inlet to the starter genera- tor to minimize the noise profile for an even quieter aircraft.
Pilatus redesigned the forward beverage center and cabinets with a larger work area, an improved storage design, and added storage for crystal wine glasses in keeping with the PC-24 Crystal Class.
For those operators accepting their new PC-24s in Q3 2024, a new cabin in- formation system complete with high- fidelity speakers, touchscreen control, and new color-controllable lighting will be an option. Those operators can also opt for a three-person side divan that can serve as a 6’6” (1.98M) bed.
With the introduction of the new PC-24, Pilatus has expanded the func- tionality of their Utility Management System (UMS). Combined with other data collection systems and a gateway that can automatically send data to their analytical software at Pilatus, operators expand their proactive ca- pability to maintain the aircraft.
My wife Jane and I visited the Pila- tus factory in Stans, Switzerland, this summer and witnessed the new PC-24s with increased range and payload in completion, as well as an extensive expansion of their facilities to accom- modate the production demand. It is also the quietest aircraft production facility I have ever visited, a testament to its thorough engineering.
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December 2023 / TWIN & TURBINE • 11