The Pilatus PC-12 - Last Year’s Most Flown Business Aircraft in the USA

When you think “most flown business aircraft in the USA,” you might picture a sleek, twin-engine jet with a mini-bar, leather recliners, and possibly a jacuzzi if you’re lucky. But no. Last year’s top performer wasn’t some luxury cruise at 40,000 feet—it was the humble, rugged, single-engine Pilatus PC-12, the Swiss Army knife of airplanes. With a whopping 316,328 takeoffs between August 2023 and July 2024, this powerhouse grabbed 8.8% of all business aircraft departures in the U.S. It turns out Americans love a Swiss-made machine that asks, “Who needs a second engine, anyway?”

The “Swiss-Made, One-Engine Wonder”

Manufactured in Switzerland, the Pilatus PC-12 brings the same efficiency and reliability as a Swiss watch, but bigger—and with wings. Often called the “World’s Greatest Single” (yes, even more reliable than your dating app experience), the PC-12 is known for its versatility. From executive jet to cargo carrier, air ambulance to emergency service chariot, the PC-12 has done it all. Essentially, it’s the aviation equivalent of a multitool, but one that fits an entire company’s worth of luggage (and maybe your CEO's golf clubs).

One Engine, No Problem!

You’d think the PC-12’s single-engine setup would make passengers nervous. After all, isn’t more always better? But Pilatus took the same approach that you’d take when choosing a reliable smartphone battery or the right brand of duct tape—choose one good one, and you’re set. The engine in question? The Pratt & Whitney PT6, basically the Chuck Norris of turboprop engines. This engine has logged enough hours to make it one of the safest choices in the skies, which is why pilots affectionately call it “Old Reliable.” The PT6 has become such a beloved engine that if you put one in a lawnmower, you’d probably see it win the Indy 500.

A Marketing Strategy Built on Being Awesome

Unlike other aircraft that boast about their speed, luxury, or noise-canceling features (not a bad thing when your office is at 20,000 feet), the PC-12 leans into practicality. It’s like the airplane equivalent of a Toyota Land Cruiser—a little less flash, a lot more “get the job done, no questions asked.” Need to land on a short runway? No problem. Got cargo to transport? Check. Want to use Sustainable Aviation Fuel and save the planet? Done.

The Pilatus PC-12 NGX, the latest model, even upgraded its comfy, cost-effective, eco-friendly flight experience. But does the NGX have champagne on tap? Probably not. Instead, it has reliable fuel efficiency and a shockingly smooth ride, whether you’re coasting over the Rockies or ducking under storm clouds.

Why the PC-12 Took America by Storm

The PC-12’s frequent flyer stats can be summed up by its sheer adaptability. Need to fly executives? Check. Want to bring in medical supplies? Easy. Need a plane to double as an emergency services vehicle? That’s a Tuesday. And since about 70 of them are zipping around in the skies at any given moment, the odds are high you’ll look up and see one, probably doing something heroic, or at least more impressive than anything you’re up to on a Tuesday.

Sustainability: Because Swiss Design is Green, Too

In a world where every company is scrambling to claim “sustainable” credentials, the PC-12 actually lives up to the hype. With fuel efficiency that will make a hybrid car blush, this jet is certified for Sustainable Aviation Fuel, meaning you’re not just flying high—you’re also saving the environment one flight at a time. Now, if only we could get the rest of our travel methods on the same page (yes, we’re looking at you, gas-guzzling carpool commute).

Final Thoughts: The PC-12, America’s Favorite Winged Workhorse

The Pilatus PC-12 proves that you don’t need two engines to be a hero. You just need one solid engine, a can-do attitude, and a Swiss attention to detail. So next time you’re dreaming about what to charter, don’t scoff at the “one-engine wonder.” Because while you’re still weighing options, the PC-12 will have already taken off, landed, transported some cargo, and come back for another round.