The PC-9 Pilatus: a plane known for its reliability

The Pilatus PC9/A is a single engine, low-wing tandem two-seat, Swiss-made training aircraft, powered by a Pratt and Whitney PT6A-62 turbo prop engine and fitted with two Martin Baker Mk AU 11-A ejection seats.

The PC-9 is a more powerful evolution of the PC-7, and retains the overall layout of its predecessor while featuring a larger cockpit with stepped ejection seats and a ventral airbrake.

The PC-9 programme began in 1982 and the first pre-production PC-9 flew in1984. Cyprus acquired 2 PC-9 Pilatus training airplanes in 1989, naming them Kyrenia and Ammochostos.

The PC-series planes are known for their reliability and sound construction.

The PC-9 is a popular plane for training and reconnaissance missions in Air Forces around the world. Among its worldwide users are Angola (4), Australia (67), Bulgaria (6), Croatia (17), Cyprus (formerly 2), Iraq (20), Ireland (8), Myanmar (10), Oman (12), Saudi Arabia (50), Slovenia (9), Switzerland (14), and Thailand (36).

The US Airforce and Navy uses the PC-9 as a basic pilot training aircraft under the designation of T-6A Texan II, which is built and marketed independently by Raytheon.

In 1997, the PC-9 (M) was introduced as the new standard model. It features an enlarged dorsal fin to improve longitudinal stability, modified wing root fairings, stall strips on the leading edges and new engine/propeller controls.

PC-9 Specifications

GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS
• Contractor: Pilatus, Switzerland
• Type: trainer aircraft
• Crew: 1 student pilot and 1 flight instructor
• Wing span: 10.12 m.
• Wing area: 16.3 metre squared
• Length: 10.70 m.
• Height: 3.26 m.
• Powerplant: 1 Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-62 turboprop 950 shp
• Empty weight: 1,685 kg
• Max take off weight: 3,200 kg
• Armament: 1,050 kg of external loads

PERFORMANCE
• Max speed: 667 km/h (496 km/h at sea level)
• Max cruising speed: 556 km/h
• Rate of climb: 1,247 m/min
• Service ceiling: 11,580 m.
• Max range: 1,538 km

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