Pilatus Signs Indonesian PC-24 Deal, PC-21 Agreement

Pilatus is poised to add to its PC-21 trainer customer base after signing an agreement with Indonesia in parallel with Jakarta’s purchase of PC-24 business jets.

The 12 PC-24s are intended for the Indonesian Air Force's transport pilot training, liaison flights and other air transport tasks, the Swiss aircraft maker said March 30. The value of the deal Pilatus signed with the Indonesian Defense Ministry-affiliated PT E-System Solutions Indonesia was not disclosed.

Pilatus said the deal includes options for an undisclosed number of additional aircraft, support equipment and other items. The company said the PC-24’s short field performance helped secure the deal.

The deal bolsters Pilatus’ efforts to grow the defense user base for its business jet. The French navy last year agree to buy three of the aircraft.

Pilatus sold 50 PC-24s in total last year.

Pilatus also said Indonesia may buy 24 PC-21 turboprop trainers, along with ground-based training and support items. That agreement is still only at the letter of intent stage. Indonesia could become the second Asian PC-21 operator after Singapore. Malaysia may also be a market opportunity.

Booming defense business has lifted the percentage of Pilatus revenue from government customers to about 30% of its total turnover, as of last year.