Page 26 - March 20 TNT

end are extended for privacy, and a button is pressed to slide the seat forward. With the standard sink, it is a very useful design. One advantage of a forward toilet is it doesn’t impact the cargo area or the use of multiple configurations.
We are cruising at 0.730 Mach to Texas. After takeoff, Kyle activated the autothrottles, which can man- age the power through either FMS or manual modes. In FMS mode, the speed control is based upon the phase of flight. In manual mode, the pilot sets the desired speed. In some situa- tions, such as mountain wave activity, it is preferred to set a specific speed slightly below Vmo/Mmo using the manual speed control to avoid oc- casional speed exceedances.
Flying the PC-24
On our second leg, I took the con- trols under the guidance of Gilbert. After completing the checklists and starting the engines, it was time to taxi. It is very easy to maneuver
despite its size. After receiving the clearance limit times for departure at the uncontrolled airport, I lined up the PC-24 on the runway and moved the throttles to full power. At takeoff power, the plane accelerated quickly, with the callouts and rotation occur- ring in short order. The specifications state the maximum rate of climb is 4,000 FPM at MTOW, however, that is definitely a conservative number. Immediately after takeoff, I reduced power, lowered the nose for better visibility and watched the ground go by fast. With a relatively low initial altitude restriction, further reduc- tion of power was necessary to keep below 250 KIAS.
I hand flew the airplane for a while and found it a dream to fly. The cockpit visibility is great with no limitations. After stabilizing the power and climb profile, I activated the autothrottles in FMS mode for the initial phase of our trip. In cruise, I selected the manual mode to set a
The center console with the MFD and aircraft system synoptic on the lower display.
Hillaero
24 • TWIN & TURBINE / March 2020
Luma
PHOTO BY AUTHOR