Oriens Aviation: Demand for Pilatus PC-12NG Continues

Oriens Aviation, the exclusive British Isles Pilatus Centre, is looking forward to a busy EBACE later this month, hard on the heels of completing three aircraft deliveries this Spring.  It is currently working on one sale which should be ratified later this summer.  Oriens’ London Biggin Hill-based demonstrator (G-DYLN), which replaced G-RABB, will feature on the static at EBACE, Europe’s premier business aviation trade show, during 28 to 31^st May for Pilatus.

Meanwhile, Oriens’ new Service Centre at Biggin Hill (EGKB), Oriens Maintenance Services, which complements its sales activity with MRO support, plus warranty work, AOC and pilot training advisory, has got off to a good start since its formal opening in February.   It has performed one annual inspection, a couple of 100-hour checks, handled a few AOG situations and has a healthy number of forward bookings for maintenance over the next few months. 

PC-12 flights in the UK were up an average 12% last year.  London Biggin Hill Airport single-handedly recorded a 17% increase in flying among private users. 

The Pilatus PC-12 can fly up to eight passengers in a luxury pressurized cabin, for up to 1,800 miles, at 320 mph and at 30,000 feet.  The PC-12 features a generous cargo door and can operate from small airfields of 800 m, from gravel strips and grass, combining to make it one of the most versatile and practical aircraft.   It can carry more payload than most for half the money.  

With a price tag of US$5 million, it can be a business aircraft / an air ambulance (able to convert inside an hour) a cargo aircraft and everything in between.  It also holds the best residual value in its class, retaining 80% of its value after 10 years.  The PC-12 has operated in the Arctic Circle, the African Plains and is a regular stable with Australia's time crucial Flying Doctors.  Its reputable single engine Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6 turbine is a legendary workhorse.