Belgium-based operator NextGen has invested in two further PC-12NGs for non-commercial operations. The company took delivery of its first PC-12NG in 2013 and CEO Tim de Meijer says that he has been amazed with the reliability and capability of the aircraft: “No other aircraft in this class is able to fly to Europe's smallest airfields with such a roomy cabin,” he comments.

“It is an outstanding performer, and this is what we have come to expect from Pilatus.”

The SET is equipped with a Hartzell five-blade prop, increasing its speed. NextGen has also modified the stairs to illuminate. “The flexibility we offer our owners and shareholders has increased dramatically with the addition of the second aircraft,” de Meijer continues. “In March 2016 we opened a new base in Ostend, where we also provide management services on a Piper Meridian and a Piaggio Avanti II.

“As traffic jams in Belgium and Europe as a whole are becoming worse, we tend to fly to the smaller airfields with our PC-12 fleet. This means our preparation is intensive until the very last minute before departure; sometimes we have to change the plans at short notice.”

The third PC-12NG was delivered at the start of this month.