The Pilatus PC-12 PRO introduces a new level of safety to the single engine turboprop category with the integration of Safety Autoland, part of its advanced Garmin safety technology suite.
Designed to provide an additional layer of protection in the unlikely event that the pilot is unable to continue flying, Autoland can take control of the aircraft and manage the flight through to landing.
But how does it actually work?
What is Autoland?
Autoland is an emergency system designed to automatically control the aircraft if the pilot becomes incapacitated.
In the PC-12 PRO, the system can detect when the pilot is no longer capable of controlling the aircraft. It can also be activated manually by passengers using a dedicated activation button.
Once activated, Autoland takes control of the aircraft and manages the flight through the emergency landing sequence.
The system is integrated into the PC-12 PRO’s Advanced Cockpit Environment, powered by the Garmin G3000 PRIME integrated flight deck. This combines advanced flight management, navigation and safety technologies within the aircraft’s redesigned cockpit.
What happens when Autoland is activated?
The system is designed to manage the aircraft through several critical stages of the emergency.
1. It takes control of the aircraft
Once activated, Autoland assumes control of the aircraft and begins managing the flight automatically.
The system is designed to maintain a safe flight path while preparing for an emergency landing.
2. It selects a suitable airport
One of the most important aspects of the system is its ability to identify an appropriate airport for landing.
Autoland considers factors including runway length, distance and available range when selecting a suitable destination.
This is particularly important in an emergency, where the closest airport may not necessarily be the most suitable one.
3. It manages the route
During the flight to the selected airport, Autoland can automatically navigate the aircraft while considering terrain, obstacles and adverse weather.
This reduces the number of decisions that would otherwise need to be made by someone who may have little or no experience flying the aircraft.
4. It communicates the emergency
The system also manages communications during the emergency sequence, helping to alert air traffic control and coordinate the aircraft’s arrival.
This provides another important layer of support while the aircraft is being flown automatically.
5. It lands the aircraft
Once the aircraft reaches the selected airport, Autoland performs the approach and landing automatically.
It then brings the PC-12 PRO to a stop on the runway, allowing emergency services to reach the aircraft.
Why is Autoland important on a single engine aircraft?
The PC-12 has always been designed around a high level of safety and reliability. The PC-12 PRO builds on this foundation by combining a proven aircraft platform with a new generation of cockpit and safety technology.
The aircraft features the Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6E-67XP engine, an advanced Garmin cockpit, Electronic Stability and Protection, Emergency Descent Mode and other integrated safety systems.
Autoland adds something different.
Rather than simply helping the pilot manage an abnormal situation, it provides a means of completing the flight if the pilot becomes unable to do so.
It is an additional layer of protection for everyone on board.
Can a passenger activate Autoland?
Yes.
While the system can activate automatically when it detects that the pilot is no longer capable of controlling the aircraft, passengers can also activate the system using the dedicated activation button.
This is particularly significant because it means the technology is not solely dependent on the pilot being able to initiate the emergency procedure.
Autoland is part of a wider safety philosophy
The PC-12 PRO does not rely on a single technology to enhance safety.
Its redesigned Advanced Cockpit Environment combines the Garmin G3000 PRIME with a range of integrated systems designed to support the pilot throughout the flight.
These include Safety Autoland, Electronic Stability and Protection, Stall Warning and Protection, Emergency Descent Mode and SurfaceWatch.
Together, these systems are designed to reduce workload, improve situational awareness and provide additional protection during unexpected situations.
A new level of confidence
Technology such as Autoland does not replace the pilot. Instead, it provides an additional safety net when circumstances prevent the pilot from continuing to operate the aircraft.
For PC-12 PRO owners and passengers, that means another level of confidence when travelling in an aircraft designed around safety, versatility and reliability.
Combined with its short field capabilities, pressurised cabin, flexible interior and ability to operate from paved and unpaved runways, the PC-12 PRO represents a new generation of single engine business aviation.
Discover the Pilatus PC-12 PRO
The PC-12 PRO combines advanced technology, proven performance and a new generation of safety features to create what Pilatus describes as its most advanced single.
To learn more about the PC-12 PRO or discuss aircraft availability, contact the Oriens Aviation team.