Pilatus PC-21

Summary

Category	Training aircraft
Origin country	🇨🇭 Switzerland
First flight	1 July 2002
Year of introduction	2008
Number produced	211 units

Description

In November 1997, Pilatus tested improvements on a modified PC-7 Mk.II, leading to the development of a new training system. Formally starting in January 1999, the PC-21 program aimed to create a trainer that could handle the bulk of jet aircraft pilot training, offering significant cost savings to operators. Pilatus focused on a predictable cost profile by using modern materials, innovative design, and thorough fatigue analysis, integrating training systems with synthetic training devices, computer-based training, and classroom instruction. The first PC-21 prototype rolled out on 30 April 2002, and conducted its first flight on 1 July of the same year. The second prototype, incorporating improvements from the first, flew on 7 June 2004. Swiss civil type certification was granted in December 2004, enabling civil maintenance procedures and private finance arrangements. On 13 January 2005, the second development aircraft crashed during an aerobatic training flight, resulting in a fatality; the cause was later determined to be pilot error. The first pre-series production PC-21 flew in late August 2005.

The Pilatus PC-21 is an advanced single-engine trainer aircraft designed with a tandem-seating arrangement under a bird strike-resistant glass canopy providing all-round vision. The pressurized cabin incorporates an On-Board Oxygen Generation System (OBOGS), air conditioning, and Martin-Baker CH16C Zero-Zero ejection seats. Its flight controls are fully balanced and harmonized, optimized for ease of operation and effectiveness, complemented by an anti-g system. The aircraft features a high-speed profile wing rated for maneuvers up to 8g, with hydraulically-assisted ailerons and spoilers, and is equipped with a digital power management system and automatic yaw compensator for enhanced low-speed handling. A key feature is its embedded simulation and training suite, offering cross-platform cockpit emulation, weapons simulation, simulated radar and electronic warfare capabilities, along with a tactical situation display and data link functionality, managed by the Mission Support System (MSS) comprising the Mission Planning System (MPS) and Mission Debriefing System (MDS). The cockpit integrates modern avionics standards, including three large color liquid crystal displays (LCD) serving as the primary flight display (PFD) and multi-function displays (MFDs), plus head-up displays (HUD) for both pilot and instructor, and a Hands on Throttle and Stick (HOTAS) control philosophy.

The PC-21 features hardpoints for four under-wing and one centerline external store station, enabling it to carry a maximum payload of 1,150 kg (2,540 lb). This capacity allows for the integration of various air-to-ground weapons, supporting its use in counter-insurgency operations.

The PC-21 has seen operational use across several air forces, primarily in its intended role as an advanced trainer. The Republic of Singapore Air Force was the first to adopt the PC-21, using it in Australia for basic flying training under a public-private partnership. Deliveries to Saudi Arabia commenced in 2014, forming a key part of a comprehensive pilot training system that also includes BAE Systems Hawk jet trainers. The Qatar Emiri Air Force also integrated the PC-21 into a complete pilot training system, including ground-based training devices and logistical support. More recently, the French Air Force pressed PC-21 trainers into service for surveillance duties during the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Main Variants:

PC-21: The standard advanced trainer configuration, designed for basic to advanced flight training.
PC-21 (with weapons): A variant equipped with hardpoints for carrying external stores, enabling counter-insurgency operations and weapons training.
PC-21 for surveillance: Modified to serve as a surveillance aircraft, as demonstrated by the French Air Force during the 2024 Paris Olympics.
PC-21 (customized avionics): Tailored versions with customized avionics and cockpit layouts to resemble specific front-line combat aircraft for enhanced training realism.
PC-21 (export version): Models adapted to meet specific requirements of various international customers, including unique training systems and support packages.

Technical specifications

Version: PC-21
Maximum speed	624 km/h (388 mph)
Wing area	15.2 m² (163.8 sqft)
Wingspan	9.1 m (29.9 ft)
Height	3.8 m (12.3 ft)
Length	11.2 m (36.8 ft)
Service ceiling	11580 m (37992 ft)
Empty weight	2270 kg (5004 lbs)
Max. takeoff weight	4250 kg (9370 lbs)
Climb rate	20.32 m/s (66.7 ft/s)
Powerplant	1 × turboprop Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-68B delivering 1193 kW