The Pilatus PC-12 is the largest civil single-engine turboprop being produced today. The manufacturer, Pilatus, has a long history of building rugged, military aircraft in Switzerland. The PC-12 was certificated in 1994. Early versions were certificated at “4.1 tons.” Later versions are all certificated to a higher gross weight of 9,920 pounds (4.5 tons) and early versions can be upgraded. Pilatus selected the Pratt & Whitney PT6A-67 engine to power this aircraft. In addition to the Swiss workmanship, the PC-12’s selling points are its cabin size, versatility and operating cost. The PC-12 cabin is approximately the size of the King Air B200 and seats 8 to 9 passengers comfortably. The PC-12 also has a standard rear cargo door, which makes loading and unloading of baggage and cargo a snap. The aircraft is in use as executive transport, cargo, combo (cargo and passengers together), EMS and commuter operations.
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- 1979 - 1988
The Westwind started out as the Aero Commander 1121 Jet Commander. When Rockwell (owner of Aero Commander) acquired North American Aviation (owner of Sabreliner) in