|
The third and final Pilatus
PC-24 prototype, P03, which also represents the series aircraft standard, took
off from Buochs airfield on Monday morning (6th March) to complete its maiden
flight.
The eye-catching blue Super
Versatile Jet, registration HB-VSA, flew across Central Switzerland for 2 hours
and 5 minutes, marking another important milestone in the Pilatus PC-24
development programme.
The first two prototypes
have flown a total of 1350 hours to date, including numerous significant test
flights. Certification flights will be flown with the series-conform P03.
 |
|
The eye-catching P03 sports a blue livery
with special pigments designed to produce a superb shimmering pearlescent
effect. The P03 will be kitted out with a "Zermatt" executive interior following
Monday's maiden flight. |
Certification of the PC-24
is expected in the 4th quarter of 2017 and initial deliveries of the 84
pre-ordered aircraft will go ahead immediately after certification is obtained.
|
Oscar J. Schwenk,
Chairman of Pilatus' Board of Directors, commented: "I'm delighted to have seen
the P03 in the air today! The PC-24 test flight programme is proceeding as
planned and the results are very encouraging. The data we have so far indicate
that our Swiss business jet exceeds published performance figures. I am
confident that certification will be achieved in the 4th quarter, and am
naturally looking forward with immense anticipation to the moment when our first
customers take delivery of their PC-24"
The PC-24 is the first
business jet worldwide to be equipped with a cargo door as standard, and is
capable of taking off and landing on very short runways and unmade strips. The
jet also boasts an extremely spacious cabin designed for easy adaptation to
personal requirements. Six stylish colour themes have been created in
partnership with Designworks, a BMW Group company, and are named after well
known ski resorts such as St. Moritz, Zermatt and Aspen.
|
 |
The P03 will be presented
to the general public for the first time at the European Business Aviation
Convention & Exhibition (EBACE) in Geneva, 22 to 24 May 2017. |
