In a devastating turn of events, an AMREF Flying Doctors air ambulance , a Cessna Citation XLS with a registration 5Y-FDM , crashed into a residential neighborhood in Mwihoko, Kiambu County just outside Nairobi killing six people and injuring others. The twin-engine medical jet departed from Wilson Airport at approximately 2:14–2:17 PM local time on Thursday, bound for Hargeisa in Somaliland. Merely three minutes into the flight, the aircraft lost radio and radar contact with air traffic control. Citation XLS 5Y-FDM. Eyewitnesses described a horrifying scene: “The plane started burning while in the air,” one resident recounted, while another said the aircraft “passed by our building shaking it,” before crashing into a house. The impact and ensuing blaze claimed the lives of all four people aboard and two individuals inside the home. Rescue teams, including those from the Kenya Red Cross, Kenya Defence Forces, National Police, and aviation authorities, rushed to the scene. AMREF ...
Get link
Facebook
X
Pinterest
Email
Other Apps
Pilatus Unveils it's new PC-12 Pro
Get link
Facebook
X
Pinterest
Email
Other Apps
March 14,2025 Pilatus Aircraft officially introduced the PC-12 Pro, the 2025 version of its iconic single-engine turboprop. Announced at the company’s headquarters in Switzerland, the PC-12 Pro builds on the success of its predecessors while integrating cutting-edge avionics, automation, and premium cabin upgrades.
The aircraft has already received FAA and EASA certification, ensuring it meets the highest regulatory standards and is ready for operation in key aviation markets.
Next-Level Avionics with Garmin G3000 Prime
A major highlight of the PC-12 Pro is the introduction of the Garmin G3000 Prime avionics suite, replacing the Honeywell Apex system found in previous models. This advanced system brings a completely digital cockpit experience with three 14-inch touchscreen primary displays, touchscreen secondary displays, and a GI 275 standby instrument, offering pilots an intuitive and modern interface.
Advanced Safety & Automation
The PC-12 Pro features Garmin’s Emergency Autoland System, a groundbreaking addition that enhances safety like never before. In the event of pilot incapacitation, the aircraft can automatically identify the nearest airport, communicate with air traffic control, and land safely—without any input from passengers.
Additionally, the GFC 700 autopilot now includes automatic autothrottle engagement, optimizing power management throughout all phases of flight. Even when the autopilot is disengaged, flight envelope protections automatically step in, preventing excessive pitch, roll, or speed deviations.
Refined Controls & Flight Deck Enhancements
Pilots will immediately notice the new control yoke, which closely resembles that of the PC-24 twinjet. This upgraded yoke includes an integrated checklist advance switch, simplifying workflow and enhancing cockpit ergonomics. Meanwhile, the single power control lever, carried over from the PC-12 NGX, maintains the aircraft’s signature ease of operation.
Luxury Meets Functionality in the Cabin
Pilatus has dedicated three years to perfecting the PC-12 Pro, refining its design for both corporate and special-mission operators. According to André Zimmermann, Pilatus’ Vice President of Business Aviation, the Pro version introduces special paint schemes, upgraded cabin materials, redesigned cabinets, and increased interior storage capacity—offering both elegance and practicality. Inspired by the PC-24, the interior delivers a superior experience with premium finishes and an enhanced sense of space.
With this modern avionics, enhanced automation, and refined interior, the PC-12 Pro is set to raise the bar in the single-engine turboprop segment. Whether for business aviation, regional transport, or specialized missions, this aircraft delivers an unmatched combination of performance, safety, and comfort.
The PC-12 Pro is more than just an upgrade—it’s a bold step forward to the future.
Aircraft turbulence, defined as the irregular motion of air encountered during flight, is a common phenomenon in aviation. Often invisible to the naked eye, turbulence can arise from a variety of atmospheric conditions, including variations in air pressure, the presence of jet streams, airflow around mountainous terrain, the interaction of cold or warm weather fronts, and the dynamic environments associated with thunderstorms. The seemingly random occurrence of turbulence underscores the critical need for a comprehensive understanding of its characteristics and the development of effective safety measures. Although turbulence is considered a normal part of air travel and occurs with notable frequency, its potential to cause discomfort, operational disruptions, and, most importantly, injuries cannot be understated. The unpredictable jolts and shakes can significantly increase anxiety among passengers, especially those already apprehensive about flying. Furthermore, severe turbulence ca...
Aviation has long been celebrated as one of the safest forms of transportation, with rigorous safety standards, cutting-edge technology, and highly trained professionals ensuring that millions of passengers reach their destinations safely every day. However, the closing months of 2024 and the start of 2025 have seen a series of aviation incidents, some fatal and others non-fatal, that have drawn global attention. For aviation enthusiasts, these incidents serve as stark reminders of the complexities of modern flight. They highlight not only the rare but real risks involved but also the industry’s relentless pursuit of safety improvements. While such accidents can be alarming, understanding their causes and implications is crucial for grasping the bigger picture of aviation safety. Recent Aviation Incidents: Fatal and Non-Fatal 1. Jeju Air Crash – South Korea (December 29, 2024) A tragic accident occurred at Muan International Airport, South Korea, when a Jeju Air flight crashed during l...
Comments
Post a Comment