Pilatus PC-6 Turbo Porter

The rugged utility aircraft built for short takeoff and landing performance

Overview

Pilatus Switzerland 1961–Present $1 million

The Pilatus PC-6 Turbo Porter is a single-engine utility aircraft renowned for exceptional short takeoff and landing capability. Designed for operations in remote and mountainous regions, it has served military and civilian operators worldwide. The aircraft is noted for its durability and adaptability.

Specifications

Units
Engine
1 × Pratt & Whitney PT6A-27
Engine type
Turboprop
Power
550 shp · 410 kW
Avionics
Honeywell Avionics Suite
Wing tips
No winglets
Seats
10
Crew
—
Cabin width
—
Cabin height
—
Cabin length
—
Exterior length
—
Tail height
—
Fuselage diameter
—
Wing span
—
Baggage volume
1 ft³  ·  0.0 m³
Gross weight
—
Empty weight
—
Max takeoff weight
13,500 lb  ·  6,100 kg
Max landing weight
—
Max payload
1,550 lb  ·  700 kg
Fuel capacity
Max cruise speed
83 kt  ·  96 mph  ·  154 km/h
Maximum speed
—
Cruise speed
—
Approach speed
—
Range
—
Fuel burn
2.92 nm/gal  ·  1.43 km/L
Ceiling
—
Rate of climb
—
Takeoff distance
190 ft  ·  60 m
Landing distance
130 ft  ·  40 m
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Operational Context

Pilatus PC-6 Turbo Porter — STOL utility aircraft

The PC-6 first flew in 1959 as a piston-powered utility aircraft before later adopting turboprop power. The Turbo Porter variant introduced the Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A engine, significantly improving reliability and performance. Its high-wing design and rugged landing gear enable operations from short and unprepared airstrips.

Powered by PT6A series engines producing between 550 and 750 shaft horsepower depending on variant, the Turbo Porter cruises at approximately 120 knots (220 km/h). Maximum takeoff weight is around 6,000 pounds (2,800 kg). The aircraft can carry up to 10 occupants or substantial cargo loads.

The PC-6 has been used for parachute operations, cargo transport, humanitarian missions, and military liaison duties. Its ability to operate in extreme terrain has made it especially popular in mountainous countries. Production continued for decades, underscoring its enduring practical design.