Pilatus Rides High in 2024 with Record Deliveries
Swiss aircraft manufacturer Pilatus Aircraft has announced a strong performance for 2024, reporting notable increases in both deliveries and new orders. The company, renowned for its innovative designs and quality engineering, delivered a total of 153 aircraft to customers over the past year—up from 148 in 2023. Among these deliveries were 96 PC-12 NGXs, 51 PC-24s, and 6 PC-21s, reflecting a diverse mix of business and training aircraft that continue to drive Pilatus’s global reputation.
Financially, the results are equally impressive. Sales in 2024 reached CHF1.633 billion (approximately $1.8 billion), compared to CHF1.478 billion ($1.6 billion) in 2023. This surge in revenue was supported by a substantial increase in new aircraft orders, which were valued at CHF2.193 billion (around $2.4 billion) during 2024. This is a significant jump from the CHF1.513 billion ($1.6 billion) recorded the previous year, indicating strong market confidence in Pilatus’s products.
Despite these positive trends, Pilatus faced challenges that affected its production processes. The company reported ongoing supplier-related delivery delays and quality issues that impaired its production timelines. Even so, Pilatus remains optimistic about overcoming these hurdles as it continues to invest in targeted infrastructure and sustainability improvements.
One of the major highlights of the year was the new contract awarded by the Royal Canadian Air Force for 19 PC-21 aircraft. This deal not only underscores the reliability of Pilatus’s training platforms but also reinforces the company’s standing in the global defense market. Additionally, Pilatus launched its PC-24 Super Versatile Jet, marketed as the “World’s Greatest Single.” The PC-24 has already garnered significant attention for its unique blend of performance, versatility, and efficiency, and it is expected to further enhance Pilatus’s position in the business jet sector.
Another milestone for Pilatus in 2024 was the achievement of the PC-12 becoming the most flown business aircraft in the United States over a one-year period. This accolade speaks to the enduring popularity and operational excellence of the PC-12 platform among business aviation customers.
Markus Bucher, CEO of Pilatus, emphasized that the company’s success is driven by a relentless focus on innovation, quality, and precision. “Pilatus continues to grow, with over 3,000 full-time employees worldwide for the first time ever. Employees from 63 nations now contribute to our success. Never before have so many apprentices been taken on as permanent employees,” Bucher stated, highlighting the company’s commitment to nurturing talent and investing in its workforce.
Chairman Hansueli Loosli echoed this sentiment, describing 2024 as a “very good financial year” marked by both significant achievements and challenges. “Despite the challenges, we achieved important milestones in 2024, with yet more portfolio development. We are pursuing targeted investment in our infrastructure and sustainability, and we continue to improve the terms of employment we offer our staff – whom we regard as our most important resource of all,” Loosli said.
With robust financial results, expanding order books, and key new contracts, Pilatus Aircraft is poised for continued success in the competitive aerospace market, even as it navigates ongoing supply chain challenges.
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