Pilatus PC-12 / PC-12 NGX
Aircraft Overview: A versatile, pressurized single-engine turboprop seating 6 to 8 passengers.
Why This Aircraft Is Used: Originally engineered in Switzerland for tight alpine landings, the pressurized Pilatus PC-12 combines a luxury executive cabin and a massive pallet-width rear cargo door with heavy-braking short-field performance. It lands effortlessly at St. Barts (SBH, 2,119 ft), Staniel Cay (TYM, 3,030 ft), and North Eleuthera (ELH) while swallowing surfboards, fishing rods, and villa provisions at half the operating cost of a jet.
- Passenger Capacity: 6–8 Passengers
- Min. Runway / Speed / Range: 2,100–2,485 ft • 285–290 KTAS • 1,500–1,800 NM
- Prime Island Destinations: St. Barts (SBH), Staniel Cay (TYM), North Eleuthera / Harbour Island (ELH), Marsh Harbour (MHH), Bimini (BIM)
Typical Charter Rates & Associated Costs: Pilatus PC-12
- Estimated Hourly Charter Rate: $2,100 – $2,900 per flight hour (plus 7.5% U.S. Federal Excise Tax where applicable)
- Daily Minimum & Crew Fees: Typical 2.0-hour daily minimum; two-pilot crew fees average $400 – $650/day ($500 – $900/night for island overnights)
- FBO Handling, Landing & Ramp Fees: $150 – $450 per landing at Bahamian Out Island and Caribbean regional airports
- International Customs, eAPIS & Departure Taxes: Bahamas/Caribbean arrival & passenger departure taxes average $65 – $125 per passenger plus $150 – $300 customs/immigrations handling