It brought fame to the Pilatus name worldwide
- the Pilatus Porter PC-6.
This multi-role aircraft has been produced at
Stans without interruption since 1959, currently in small numbers, i.e. ten
machines per year at most. The PC-6 is one of the world's longest-running
production stories in the aviation industry.
That will come to an end in early 2019 when
production will be ceased. Support will be provided to existing customers
however for the next 20 years at least, thereby ensuring reliable ongoing PC-6
operations.
Pilatus has produced a total of 500 PC-6s in
Stans since 1959. Slightly fewer than 100 machines were additionally produced in
the USA under licence. The PC-6 delivered an international breakthrough for
Pilatus: its short takeoff and landing capabilities and general versatility
earned it worldwide fame and a reputation as a robust “all-rounder”. Amongst its
many achievements, the Pilatus Porter has flown several cargo and passenger
trips at maximum useful load to an altitude of 5700 metres above sea level - a
world record that has not been bettered even to this day!
Adjustment to the product portfolio
The Pilatus name stands for “high tech” and
latest generation aircraft. In line with this philosophy, the company's products
benefit from ongoing development to ensure they match the most recent standards.
Due to the age of the PC-6 and other certification parameters, it is no longer
possible to provide this ongoing development in the scope Pilatus would wish.
Also in connection with the PC-24 Super
Versatile Jet, for which series production is currently gearing up in Stans, and
which requires our full attention, Pilatus has decided that the PC-6 no longer
fits its product portfolio, and that, after 60 years, it is now time to cease
production. Employees previously engaged on the PC-6 production line will be
assigned to assembly work on our other aircraft types.
Oscar J. Schwenk,
Chairman of the Board of Directors of Pilatus, comments: “I am proud that the
PC-6 featured in the Pilatus product portfolio, this aircraft has earned us fame
and recognition worldwide. But the time has now come to take a dispassionate
look at the facts and admit that every product has a life cycle which must come
to an end sooner or later. That moment has arrived for the PC-6. With an eye on
the future, however, we now look forward to the imminent market launch of the
PC-24 Super Versatile Jet, which embodies, and carries forward, all the original
values of the PC-6.”
Last opportunity to order
Pilatus will accept orders for the PC-6 latest
until mid of 2018. The number of aircraft available is limited. Existing
customers may depend on at least 20 years of support and spare parts for the
PC-6, ensuring reliable continuing operations well into the future, in line with
the Pilatus motto, “Customer First”. |