With its powerful single turboprop engine, spacious cabin and excellent performance, the PILATUS PC-12 is a popular choice for owner-pilots wanting a versatile turbine aircraft. I’ve long admired the PC-12, so I decided to thoroughly research the costs of purchasing and operating this exceptional airplane.

In this article, I’ll share details on the PC-12’s price tag, operating expenses, and financing options for both new and pre-owned models. Whether you dream of owning a Pilatus or just love learning about airplanes, read on!

Why Pilots Love the PC-12

Since its debut in 1991, the PC-12 has won devotees thanks to assets like:

Powerful Pratt & Whitney PT6A-67P turboprop engine provides excellent climb and cruise speeds.
1,200 lb useful load means you can fill the seats and tanks without overload concerns.
Its 49 cu. ft. pressurized cabin provides comfortable seating for up to 10 people.
Excellent short field performance allows the PC-12 to access more airports.
Modern avionics and autopilot simplify flying this capable single-engine turboprop.
Over 1,800 nm range gives opportunity for long journeys in pressurized comfort.

For owner-pilots needing a turbine-powered aircraft with ample range and capacity, the PC-12 hits a sweet spot. Now let’s explore the costs.

What’s the Price Tag on a Brand New PC-12?

As a top-of-the-line single turboprop, a new PC-12 carries a substantial price tag. In 2023, a base model lists for around $4.39 million. However, most buyers customize with options and negotiated discounts are common on new purchases.

Some popular extras on the PC-12 include:

Upgraded avionics like touchscreen GPS navigators
Premium interior options for the cabin
De-icing equipment for flying in icing conditions
Higher capacity oxygen systems
Additional fuel tanks to extend range

Even with a discounted price and modest options, plan on investing $4 million or more for a new PC-12. But given its capabilities, it’s easy to see why so many owner-pilots feel the aircraft is worth the cost.

What’s the Cost for a Pre-Owned PC-12?

Since the PC-12 has been manufactured for over 30 years, a strong used market exists. Plan on spending $3.49 million to $6.9 million for a late-model PC-12 built between 1999 to 2021.

As with any used airplane purchase, overall condition, maintenance history, engine time, avionics suite and interior finish substantially impact asking price. Models nearing engine overhaul will sell for less.

While still a huge investment, purchasing pre-owned can mean over $1 million in savings compared to new. And you still get the PC-12’s proven performance and versatility.

Fixed Operating Costs for the Pilatus PC-12

When your PC-12 is parked, you’ll still face fixed operating expenses. Plan on around $96,337 annually including:

Hangar Costs

For a jet-sized aircraft like the PC-12, hangar storage runs at least $24,000 yearly. Some areas with hangar scarcity may be higher.

Insurance

With its multi-million dollar value, expect to budget around $30,000 per year for comprehensive hull and liability insurance.

Annual Inspection

This complex turbine aircraft requires an intensive annual inspection often costing $20,000 or more.

Engine Reserves

It’s smart to save reserves towards the engine’s future overhaul. At around $21,732 annually, you’ll be ready when the time comes.

Miscellaneous

Minor fixed costs like subscriptions and tiedown fees could add up to around $605 per year.

So keep around $96,337 on hand for annual fixed operating expenses.

Variable Costs of Flying the PC-12

When you fly your Pilatus, variable operating expenses accumulate. These will total approximately $97,600 annually assuming 100 flight hours.

Fuel Costs

The PC-12 burns around 65 gallons per hour. With jet fuel at $5.40 per gallon, plan on $351 per flight hour.

Oil Costs

Oil consumption is low, so budget around $5 per hour.

Engine Reserves

It’s wise to keep building engine overhaul reserves at around $180 per hour flown.

Unscheduled Maintenance

Expect around $340 per hour for unscheduled maintenance and repairs. Turbine engines have specialized needs.

Miscellaneous

Miscellaneous variable costs like landing fees and pilot supplies add up to around $100 per flight hour.

Variable costs directly relate to your flying time. For 100 annual hours, budget $97,600. The more you fly, the higher the variables.

Total PC-12 Operating Cost Per Flight Hour

When fixed and variable expenses are combined and divided across 100 hours annually, the total cost per flight hour is approximately $1,939. Here’s the breakdown:

Fuel Costs: $351/hr
Oil Costs: $5/hr
Engine Reserves: $180/hr
Unscheduled Maintenance: $340/hr
Misc Variable Costs: $100/hr
Fixed Costs (Annualized): $963/hr

So the PC-12 does have high operating costs, but its capabilities and utility help justify the expense for many owner-pilots.

How to Pay for a PC-12 Purchase

Very few buyers can afford to purchase a PC-12 with cash. But creative financing makes ownership attainable including:

Aircraft Loans

Banks or credit unions may finance a PC-12 purchase, normally with a 20% or higher down payment required and higher interest rates than other loans.

Leasing

Leasing through a specialty finance provider allows you to operate the aircraft without purchasing it. Multi-year leases are common with an option to buy it later on.

Shared/Fractional Ownership

Spreading the acquisition and operating costs across a partnership or ownership group is a way to make the PC-12 more accessible.

Business Ownership

There are potential tax advantages to owning the aircraft through a business entity. Consult an expert on possible tax benefits.

For pilots aspiring to fly a turbine, creative financing unlocks the possibility of owning an exceptional aircraft like the PC-12.

Is Buying a PC-12 Worth the Investment?

There’s no doubt that acquiring a Pilatus PC-12 requires serious financial means and long-term commitment. But for pilots who frequently carry passengers or cargo, its operating costs can be justified.

The PC-12 offers high performance, pressurized comfort and versatility beyond many piston aircraft. Owners praise its rugged dependability and the turbine engine’s smooth power.

This exceptional single makes cross-country trips efficient and enjoyable for all on board. For those who can afford it, the PC-12 represents an outstanding ownership experience.

Whether your budget allows for purchasing or you’re still dreaming, I hope this look at the PC-12’s costs and capabilities has been helpful and informative. Thanks for reading, and clear skies ahead!