PC-7 Updated for the Next Generation of Students

Renewing the competition between the Embraer Super Tucano and the Beechcraft T-6 Texan, the Swiss have decided to enter the fray with an advanced, tandem-seat, turbine-powered "smart basic trainer".

Designed for flight training as an advanced, trustworthy, and reliable bridge between small introductory aircraft and high-performance jets, the PC-7 is built to provide air forces around the world with their dream trainer. Pilatus states that the MKX is suitable to replace even lighter piston aircraft for elementary training, and emphasizes the docility of its cost-efficient PT6A-25C engine, with 700 horsepower. Built on a solid history of the PC-7 that dates back to the 1970's, the PC-7 MKX renews the nameplate while integrating the strengths of Pilatus aircraft for the next generation.

Boasting an up-to-date glass cockpit, with the same three-display layout seen in modern jets, students can acclimate quickly to the skills needed to keep up with a complex, fast-paced battle tempo. With all the information they need up front, in high definition, students will be able to focus on learning the most vital aspects of becoming a military aviator unencumbered by troublesome equipment. With optional equipment offering synthetic vision systems, traffic advisory, autopilot, cockpit camera, mission debriefing systems, and more, schools can outfit their aircraft as needed for the training environment. The primary flight display provides moving maps for navigation, with the same niceties found on much larger aircraft like a Flight Management System, and Engine Indicating/Crew Alerting System. 

To go with the plane's training mission, Pilatus has embraced virtual reality training tools for ground-based learning. From the simplest aid to a full flight simulator, Pilatus offers a suitable recreation of the aircraft to reduce airborne training time and cost per pilot while maximizing the quality of flight hours. Equipped with a Martin Baker Z11A ejection seat good down to 60 knots, an emergency oxygen system, and personal survival pack, the stepped tandem seating offers the safest classroom in its class. 

The aircraft itself represents a conventional, standard design. Semi-monocoque construction for the wings, fuselage, and empennage of aluminum alloy, stable, tractable handling qualities, and easy maintenance adds to the simplicity of operation. 

FMI: www.pilatus-aircraft.com