Pilatus on 20 February conducted the first engine ground runs with a PC-21 turboprop trainer for export buyer Qatar.
Pictured at the Swiss manufacturer's Stans production facility, aircraft QA 350 is the lead trainer from a 24-unit deal signed in July 2012. This also includes ground-based training systems and associated equipment for use at a new training academy for the Qatar Emiri Air Force, plus maintenance services.
Stephan Widmer
The PC-21's entry into ground testing comes ahead of scheduled deliveries from mid-2014. Training activities with the type are due to commence during 2015, according to information previously provided by the manufacturer. All 24 aircraft are due to be delivered before the end of the same year, according to Flightglobal's MiliCAS database.
Qatar will become the fifth nation to introduce the new-generation PC-21, following Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Switzerland and the United Arab Emirates.
Source: Flight International
