The Pilatus PC-12 has been the cornerstone of the PlaneSense® fractional program since its inception in 1995. The aircraft’s reliability, efficiencies, affordable operating costs, and unique capabilities made it the perfect choice for private fliers looking to reach everywhere from remote destinations to big cities. PlaneSense launched its fractional program with serial number 120, just the 20th PC-12 to be manufactured. It was the perfect aircraft to fit the PlaneSense® mission of providing world class private flights for a responsible price point, and N112AF served the fleet well.
Pilatus PC-12 NGX turboprops now make up half of the large and growing PlaneSense® PC-12 fleet.
The World’s Most Popular Single Engine
The versatile PC-12 has become one of the most widely popular single engine aircraft by pilots and private flyers. In fact, it was the most flown business aircraft in the U.S. in the past year, recording 316,328 takeoffs between August 2023 and July 2024, representing 8.8 percent of all departures. Private flyers in the 2024 Business Jet Traveler Magazine annual survey again named the PC-12 the number one most sought-after single engine aircraft.
Acclaimed for its ability to access short runways, including grass and dirt airstrips, the aircraft has earned a reputation of versatility and flexibility for just about any mission. A large cargo door and generous interior storage allow it to easily transport a wide variety of cargo. It has been called a “workhorse” but the PC-12 offers such a smooth, comfortable flight and spacious cabin, that it has become the perfect business aircraft with just the right amount of luxurious touches for any private flyer.
PlaneSense took delivery of the 2000th PC-12 in May 2023.
The Aircraft that Makes Sense
It’s no wonder PlaneSense built its fractional fleet on the foundation of this unique aircraft, and continues to manage the largest commercial fleet of Pilatus PC-12 turboprops in the U.S. The PC-12 allows PlaneSense® to offer what no other fractional program in the U.S. can – a cost-effective private flight option with a business aircraft capable of accessing thousands more airports than other programs with all the amenities and convenience afforded through private travel. At home in the largest of metro hubs and remote runways alike, the PC-12 gets business travelers closer to their clients and leisure travelers to destinations inaccessible by other aircraft.
In an effort to stay on top of the latest technology, PlaneSense keeps its fleet young, cycling out PC-12 aircraft within ten years. This allows share owners to have access to the latest enhancements in comfort, avionics, and safety features. The latest model of this highly trusted aircraft is the PC-12 NGX, featuring larger, more comfortable seats, improved heating and cooling, and windows that are 10% bigger, allowing more natural light to fill the spacious cabin. It also includes several enhancements to the Pratt & Whitney engine and the Honeywell avionics in the cockpit. Regardless of upgrades, PC-12 aircraft are notorious for holding their value in the market. Not only is this turboprop exceptionally reliable and luxurious, but it is a sound investment for fractional share owners as well.
Download our guide today to learn how the PC-12 and the PlaneSense® fractional program fit your flight needs.
