Pilatus Aircraft Ltd., headquartered in Stans, Switzerland, is world-renowned for its high-quality turboprop aircraft such as the PC-12, which has become one of the most versatile and successful business aircraft ever built. While traditionally focused on turboprops and military trainers, Pilatus made a bold entry into the business jet market in the 2010s with the development of the PC-24, a unique “Super Versatile Jet” that combines jet performance with the rugged flexibility of a turboprop.

Founded in 1939, Pilatus built its reputation on Swiss engineering excellence, durability, and adaptability. The PC-12, introduced in 1991, set the stage by proving that an aircraft could deliver both executive comfort and utility in demanding environments. Building on this heritage, Pilatus envisioned a jet that would retain the short-field, unpaved-runway capability of the PC-12 while offering the speed and range of a light jet.

The PC-24: A Class of Its Own

The Pilatus PC-24, launched in 2013 and certified in 2017, is the world’s first Super Versatile Jet (SVJ). Unlike traditional business jets that are restricted to paved runways, the PC-24 is certified for operations from grass, dirt, gravel, and even snow runways, giving it unmatched operational flexibility.

With a range of about 2,000 nautical miles, seating for up to 10 passengers, and a spacious flat-floor cabin, the PC-24 bridges the gap between light jets and utility aircraft. Its large cargo door—unique in the light jet category—makes it ideal not only for executive missions but also for medevac, government, and special operations.

Market Position and Success

Pilatus positioned the PC-24 as a niche product within business aviation: a jet capable of operating from more than twice the number of airports accessible to other light jets. This flexibility appeals to private owners, corporations, air ambulance services, and government operators who need a balance of luxury and practicality.

Since its entry into service in 2018, the PC-24 has built a strong order book and has been delivered worldwide, reflecting Pilatus’s ability to bring something genuinely different to the market dominated by giants like Bombardier, Gulfstream, and Cessna.

Sustainability and Swiss Craftsmanship

Like all Pilatus aircraft, the PC-24 emphasizes efficiency, durability, and low operating costs. Its design maximizes fuel efficiency while minimizing environmental footprint, and the company maintains a strong commitment to Swiss craftsmanship—each aircraft is hand-finished in Stans with meticulous attention to detail.

A Focused Vision for the Future

Unlike competitors with broad product families, Pilatus maintains a focused strategy: the PC-12 turboprop and the PC-24 jet as complementary products. This unique position allows Pilatus to serve a specific clientele seeking versatility, ruggedness, and reliability without sacrificing executive comfort. The PC-24 embodies Pilatus’s ethos: “Swiss Made” precision for a global audience.