Description
Pilatus PC21
The Pilatus PC-21 is a turboprop-powered advanced trainer with a stepped tandem cockpit. It is manufactured by Pilatus Aircraft of Switzerland.
In November 1997, Pilatus flew a modified PC-7 Mk.II to test improvements for a prospective next-generation turboprop trainer. As a result of these tests, Pilatus elected to fund the development of a new training system in November 1998; the development of the new trainer, designated as the PC-21, formally started in January 1999. The PC-21 would be developed and certified as a completely new training system, aimed at meeting future military customers' specifications in terms of capability and life-cycle costs for the next three decades.
A key aim for the PC-21 was to allow jet aircraft pilots to perform the majority of their training using the type before converting to jet-powered types, allowing operators to make substantial savings. To achieve this aim, the new trainer was required to have an expanded performance envelope in terms of aerodynamics, cockpit equipment, flexibility, and ease of maintenance.The Pilatus PC-21 is the world's most advanced pilot training aircraft.
As part of the AIR 5428 Pilot Training System project, the PC-21 will replace Air Force's current PC-9/A. It will be based at RAAF Base East Sale in Victoria and RAAF Base Pearce in Western Australia.
Although the PC-21 is a key element of the AIR 5428 project, it is only one part of the story. The new Pilot Training System will be able to train more people faster and to a higher standard, with an:
The system will ensure undergraduate pilots develop the necessary
knowledge and skills prior to progressing onto advanced military
aircraft such as the F-35A Joint Strike Fighter, Armed Reconnaissance
Helicopter, and MRH-90 helicopter
Pilatus PC-21 PnP Kit ready for the TurboPorp engine.
At 2.2m (86inch) long and almost 2m
(76inch) wingspan the T-one is large enough to be stable while still being
easy and light enough to transport.
Specifications:
- 2.3m (86inch) long
- 1.85m (74inch) wingspan
- 1 x KT45 turbines
- 3 x mini servos
- 4 x standard servos
- Dry weight 13.2kg flying weight 14.5kg
PC21 PnP Kit include: Kit include:
- Painted airframe
- E-gear & T-One controller
- Navigation Lights
- Scale UpgradedCockpit
- Electric landing gear, gear doors, and HV door servos installed
- Hardware package
- All hinging completed and control horns installed. All linkages are hidden.
- Carbon Fiber 3-bladed propeller
- Spinner
- All servos installed