March 28, 2025
According to the company, PlaneSense recently launched the world’s only Pilatus PC-12 NGX Level D Full Flight Simulator.
According to the company, PlaneSense recently launched the world’s only Pilatus PC-12 NGX Level D Full Flight Simulator to enhance its pilot training program.
In making the announcement, the operator said, “Excellence in pilot training has been a strategic priority for PlaneSense since its inception 30 years ago.”
PlaneSense is the seventh-largest fractional/charter operator in the U.S.
It saw an 8.7% increase in flight hours last year despite a 1.1% dip for the industry.
President and CEO George Antoniadis says, “A quality aviation program requires exceptional pilots. PlaneSense has long been recognized for its leading-edge, in-house pilot training program.”
Antoniadis continues, “This simulator allows us to fully control the entire pilot training process and further enhance our curriculum to continue to meet the high standards of excellence expected by our program.”
He added, “Our clients deserve only the best and safest experts flying their aircraft.”
Pilatus Aircraft, Ltd. CEO Markus Bucher says, “PlaneSense has been a leader in developing top-quality training programs for the PC-12 and PC-24.”
He continues, “We are very happy to see this PC-12 NGX Level D simulator being put into service. It is a tremendous asset for the aviation community, allowing for yet another opportunity to effectively train exceptional PC-12 pilots.”
Currently, the PlaneSense fleet includes 46 Pilatus PC-12 aircraft.
Half of these are the NGX model, which a compatible full-motion simulator did not support.
PlaneSense collected the aero data and collaborated with Aeronautical Systems Engineering to develop a Level D simulator to support training on its NGX fleet.
Antoniadis says, “ASE’s attention to every intricate detail of the aircraft’s operation was impressive,” added Antoniadis. “We are grateful for their expertise in the development of this exceptional technology.”
Aeronautical Systems Engineering President and CEO Faiek Zora notes, “The development of this state-of-the-art, highest technology simulator was a collaborative effort, and we’re incredibly grateful to PlaneSense for their support and meticulous attention to detail.”
He continues, “This Level D simulator represents our unwavering commitment to safety and excellence. By investing in this cutting-edge technology, we’re ensuring PlaneSense pilots receive the absolute best training, directly translating to the safest and most exceptional experience.”
PlaneSense received FAA certification for the simulator on February 7, 2025.
The simulator will be co-located at ASE’s facility in Tampa, Florida.
PlaneSense has established classroom space there to support its training program.
Ground school training will continue at the PlaneSense headquarters in New Hampshire.
PlaneSense plans to offer third-party training as well.
Last year, readers of Business Jet Traveler ranked PlaneSense first in Overall Satisfaction, Customer Service, and Value for the Price Paid.
In January, PlaneSense said it had entered an agreement with Jetfly.
It enables fractional ownership clients to fly in Europe via an interchange agreement.
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