Business Aviation
Life Flight Network Orders 12 Pilatus PC-12 PRO Aircraft for Medical Transport
Life Flight Network signs 10-year deal with Pilatus for 12 PC-12 PRO aircraft equipped for ICU-level air medical transport, deliveries begin 2027.
This article is based on an official press release from Pilatus Aircraft.
Life Flight Network, the largest not-for-profit air medical transport provider in the United States, has signed a 10-year agreement with Pilatus Aircraft, placing a firm orders for 12 new PC-12 PRO aircraft. According to an official press release from Pilatus, the deal also includes options for additional aircraft to support future fleet expansion.
The agreement positions Life Flight Network as the United States launch customer for the PC-12 PRO configured specifically with aeromedical interiors. Deliveries of the new turboprops are scheduled to begin in 2027, marking a significant long-term investment in advanced air medical capabilities for the organization.
These new aircraft will be delivered through Pilatus Aircraft USA Ltd, based in Broomfield, Colorado. Once operational, the fleet will be fully equipped to provide Intensive Care Unit (ICU) level care and transport for critically ill and injured patients across diverse and often remote operational areas.
Upgrading the Air Medical Fleet
The decision to acquire the PC-12 PRO aligns with Life Flight Network’s ongoing fleet modernization efforts. Founded nearly half a century ago, the organization has built a reputation for clinical excellence and rapid response in regions where medical infrastructure can be sparse. The addition of the PC-12 PRO is expected to enhance their ability to deliver safe and efficient life-saving transport.
In the press release, company leadership emphasized the strategic importance of the acquisition for their service areas, which include the Pacific Northwest, the Intermountain West, and Hawaii.
“This ten-year agreement represents a major step forward for our organization. The PC-12 PRO offers the performance, reliability, and advanced safety technology needed to serve our communities in the Pacific Northwest, Intermountain West, and Hawaii. We are committed to investing in aircraft that improve patient care, support our crews, and maintain the highest safety standards.”
Technological Advancements of the PC-12 PRO
The PC-12 PRO brings several technological and safety enhancements to the demanding environment of air medical transport. The aircraft features an advanced avionics suite and integrated Safety Autoland technology, which provides an additional layer of security for flight crews and patients during critical missions.
Furthermore, the medical interiors are designed and built in the United States, ensuring they meet the rigorous standards required for ICU-level care in the air. Pilatus executives highlighted the platform’s suitability for these specialized operations.
“The PC-12 PRO is a proven platform, ideal for air medical missions. With its advanced avionics suite, exceptional performance, integrated Safety Autoland technology, and US-designed and -built medical interior, it offers unparalleled safety and operational flexibility. We are proud to support Life Flight Network in its critical mission of providing critical care transport.”
AirPro News analysis
We note that Life Flight Network’s commitment to a 10-year agreement with Pilatus underscores a broader industry trend of standardizing air medical fleets around proven, versatile turboprop platforms. The PC-12 family has long been favored by aeromedical operators for its ability to access short, unpaved runways while offering a cabin size comparable to mid-size jets. By securing options for future deliveries, Life Flight Network is insulating itself against supply chain constraints and ensuring a steady pipeline of modern aircraft as they expand their footprint, particularly in their newly announced Hawaiian operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What aircraft did Life Flight Network order?
Life Flight Network placed a firm order for 12 Pilatus PC-12 PRO aircraft, with options for additional airframes in the future.
When will the new aircraft be delivered?
According to the Pilatus press release, deliveries of the new PC-12 PRO aircraft are scheduled to begin in 2027.
What makes the PC-12 PRO suitable for medical transport?
The aircraft will be delivered with US-designed and built aeromedical interiors, fully equipped for Intensive Care Unit (ICU) level care. It also features an advanced avionics suite and integrated Safety Autoland technology.
Sources
Photo Credit: Pilatus