Airlines

Pilatus Enhances PC-24 Jet’s Range, Payload, and Interior Amenities

Pilatus has increased the payload-range capability of its Super Versatile Jet to achieve a maximum range with six passengers of 2,000 nautical miles (3,704 km) beginning with new aircraft deliveries in 2024.

Pilatus also incorporated an array of new interior amenities, including a large side-facing divan which can be converted into a bed. The new PC-24 has an increased maximum payload capacity and full fuel payload of 600 pounds (272 kg).

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With six passengers on board, this enables operators to extend the PC-24’s maximum range by 200 nm (370 km). The PC-24 currently has a class-leading maximum payload capacity of 3,100 pounds (1,406 kg), which includes a single pilot plus 1,315 pounds (596 lb) of full fuel payload.

To widen the overall envelope for the heavier design weights, Pilatus engineers ran a lengthy flying test campaign. Balanced field length at sea level for the PC-24’s maximum takeoff weight is only 3,090 feet (941 metres), enabling the use of extremely brief and even unpaved runways.

A new integrated cabin management system (iCMS) with a 10″ touch screen controller, a 3D moving map, four high-fidelity cabin speakers with a sub-woofer option, mood lighting, USB connections, and a media storage server was developed by Pilatus in collaboration with Lufthansa Technik.

A new feature that enables predictive services will be included with every PC-24 starting with serial number 501. Upon landing, the automated data transmission of critical aircraft data to Pilatus will be examined, and if necessary, the operator will receive a predictive recommendation.

Airlines

Sanctions & Engine Issues Ground Half of Russia’s A320neo fleet

Russia’s aviation sector, already strained by Western sanctions, faces another setback as nearly half of its Airbus A320neo family aircraft are grounded due to unresolved engine issues.

This development highlights the growing challenges for russia commercial aircraft in maintaining their fleets under the weight of global restrictions and limited access to spare parts.

Out of the 66 Airbus A320neo and A321neo jets in Russia, 34 are now out of service, according to the Kommersant business newspaper. These planes are powered by engines manufactured by Pratt & Whitney, a subsidiary of RTX Corporation.

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The engines are affected by a previously identified defect in the metal used for certain parts, prompting accelerated inspections and maintenance.

Sanctions have compounded the issue, blocking the supply of essential components from major manufacturers like Boeing and Airbus. Without proper maintenance, experts warn that these aircraft may face decommissioning as early as 2026.

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Airlines like S7, which operates a significant portion of these grounded jets, plan to conserve the engines for future use during peak travel seasons. However, reports suggest that over 20 of S7’s Airbus planes have engines that have already reached the end of their operational lifespan. Recently, russia seeks assistance from kazakhstan’s airlines to bolster its domestic flights.

While some A320neo and A321neo planes in Russia are equipped with French-made LEAP engines, which are seen as less problematic, the challenges remain daunting.

The situation underscores the long-term impact of sanctions on Russia’s aviation sector and the increasing difficulties in keeping its modern fleets operational.