View source for Pilatus PC-21

{{short description|Single-engine, low-wing tandem-seat turboprop military training aircraft}}
{{Infobox aircraft
| name = PC-21
| image = File:pilatus pc-21 hb-hzc lands arp.jpg
| caption = The PC-21 demonstrator lands at [[RIAT]] 2008, England.
| type = Advanced [[trainer aircraft]]
| manufacturer = [[Pilatus Aircraft]]
| designer = Pilatus Aircraft
| first_flight = 1 July 2002
| introduction = April 2008
| retired = 
| status = Active service
| primary_user = [[Swiss Air Force]]
| more_users = [[Royal Australian Air Force]] <br />[[Spanish Air and Space Force]] <br /> [[Royal Saudi Air Force]]   <!-- Only THREE "more users" here. Separate users with <br />. -->
| produced = 2002–present
| number_built = 211<ref>{{cite web |title=Handover of the First PC-21 to QinetiQ |url=https://www.pilatus-aircraft.com/en/news-events/media-release/handover-of-the-first-pc-21-to-qinetiq |website=pilatus-aircraft.com |access-date=6 October 2018 |date=18 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181006154801/https://www.pilatus-aircraft.com/en/news-events/media-release/handover-of-the-first-pc-21-to-qinetiq |archive-date=6 October 2018 |url-status=live }}</ref>
| variants = 
}}

The '''Pilatus PC-21''' is a [[turboprop]]-powered advanced [[Trainer (aircraft)|trainer]] with a stepped [[tandem]] cockpit. It is manufactured by [[Pilatus Aircraft]] of [[Switzerland]].

==Development==
In November 1997 Pilatus flew a modified [[Pilatus PC-7|PC-7 Mk.II]] in order to test improvements for a prospective next generation turboprop trainer. As a result of these tests, Pilatus elected to fund the development of a new training system in November 1998; development of the new trainer, designated as the ''PC-21'', formally started in January 1999.<ref name = "hist 2006"/> The PC-21 would be developed and certified as a completely new training system, aimed at meeting future military customers' specifications in terms of capability and life-cycle costs for the next three decades.<ref name=spec/>

A key aim for the PC-21 was to allow jet aircraft pilots to perform the majority of their training using the type before converting to jet-powered types, allowing operators to make substantial savings. In order to achieve this aim, the new trainer was required to have an expanded performance envelope in terms of [[aerodynamic]]s, cockpit equipment, flexibility, and ease of maintenance.<ref name = "hist 2006">Hoyle, Craig. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/switzerland-special-pilatus-the-success-story-222274/ "Switzerland special: Pilatus the success story."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160406084137/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/switzerland-special-pilatus-the-success-story-222274/ |date=2016-04-06 }} ''Flight International'', 17 March 2008.</ref><ref name = "next gen trainer">[http://www.pilatus-aircraft.com/#39 "The NextGen Trainer."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080613164120/http://www.pilatus-aircraft.com/#39 |date=2008-06-13 }} ''Pilatus Aircraft'', Retrieved: 22 March 2016.</ref><ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pc-21-set-to-revolutionise-training-for-air-forces-151905/ "PC-21 set to revolutionise training for air forces."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160406070017/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pc-21-set-to-revolutionise-training-for-air-forces-151905/ |date=2016-04-06 }} ''Flight International'', 22 July 2002.</ref> In May 2002 Pilatus announced that it aimed for the PC-21 to capture 50% of the global trainer aircraft market between 2005 and 2030.<ref name = "pre-pro"/><ref name = "50 market">Wastnage, Justin. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pilatus-aims-for-half-of-trainer-sales-with-pc-21-147384/ "Pilatus aims for half of trainer sales with PC-21."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160406104235/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pilatus-aims-for-half-of-trainer-sales-with-pc-21-147384/ |date=2016-04-06 }} ''Flight International'', 7 May 2002.</ref>

From the start of the aircraft's development, Pilatus aimed for the type to have a predictable cost profile over its full lifespan. To meet this goal, the firm chose to incorporate modern materials, an innovative design concept, and full-scale [[fatigue (material)|fatigue]] analysis.<ref name = "pil brouch"/> Additionally, accompanying the aircraft itself are integrated training systems to meet the pilot's needs; the full package offered by Pilatus includes synthetic training devices, computer-based training, and classroom instruction.<ref name = "next gen trainer"/> As a result of greater training effectiveness, pilots can graduate with fewer total training hours, reaching the frontline faster and at lower cost.<ref name = "pil brouch"/> In addition to pilots, various prospective aircrew, such as navigators, weapons officers, and electronic warfare operators, can be trained using the type's embedded simulation/emulation system.<ref name = "pil brouch"/>

On 30 April 2002, the rollout of the first PC-21 prototype was performed at Pilatus' factory in [[Stans]], Switzerland; this aircraft conducted its first flight on 1 July of the same year.<ref name = "first proto fly">[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pilatus-flies-pc-21-and-aims-for-certification-in-20-150856/ "Pilatus flies PC-21 and aims for certification in 2004."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160406065831/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pilatus-flies-pc-21-and-aims-for-certification-in-20-150856/ |date=2016-04-06 }} ''Flight International'', 9 July 2002.</ref> In May 2003, Pilatus management formally green-lit the program to proceed to full development.<ref name = "pen simul"/> On 7 June 2004, a second PC-21 prototype, the construction of which had been delayed to incorporate improvements learnt from assembling the first, made its maiden flight.<ref name = "first proto fly"/> In December 2004, Switzerland's [[Federal Office for Civil Aviation of Switzerland|Federal Office for Civil Aviation]] granted [[type certificate|type certification]] for the PC-21; civil certification was attained despite it being a military aircraft as this permitted civil maintenance procedures to be used as well as allowing the aircraft to be supplied under private finance arrangements.<ref name = "pil brouch"/> Individual Swiss military certification for equipment such as ejection seats has been applied as necessary.<ref name = "flight test int">Collins, Peter. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/flight-test-pilatus-pc-21-fast-learner-319516/ "FLIGHT TEST: Pilatus PC-21 – Fast learner."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160406063151/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/flight-test-pilatus-pc-21-fast-learner-319516/ |date=2016-04-06 }} ''Flight International'', 2 December 2008.</ref>

On 13 January 2005, the second of the two development aircraft crashed in [[Buochs]], Switzerland, while conducting an aerobatic training flight; the accident resulted in the death of the pilot as well as injuring another person on the ground.<ref>Wastnage, Justin. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/test-pilot-killed-in-pc-21-accident-192584/ "Test pilot killed in PC-21 accident."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160406083845/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/test-pilot-killed-in-pc-21-accident-192584/ |date=2016-04-06 }} ''Flight International'', 18 January 2005.</ref> In response to the accident, the other PC-21 was grounded for several weeks until Swiss authorities had established that there was no sign of technical malfunction.<ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pc-21-grounding-lifted-after-crash-193289/ "PC-21 grounding lifted after crash."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160406101001/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pc-21-grounding-lifted-after-crash-193289/ |date=2016-04-06 }} ''Flight International'', 1 February 2005.</ref> In August 2006, it was announced that crash investigators had concluded that pilot error had been a primary cause.<ref>Wastnage, Justin. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/january-2005-crash-of-prototype-pilatus-pc-21-attrib-208678/ "January 2005 crash of prototype Pilatus PC-21 attributed to pilot error in official crash report."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160406112415/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/january-2005-crash-of-prototype-pilatus-pc-21-attrib-208678/ |date=2016-04-06 }} ''Flight International'', 25 August 2006.</ref> In late August 2005, the first pre-series production PC-21 performed its maiden flight.<ref name = "pre-pro">[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/swiss-air-force-poised-to-acquire-six-pc-21s-201506/ "Swiss air force poised to acquire six PC-21s."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160406071203/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/swiss-air-force-poised-to-acquire-six-pc-21s-201506/ |date=2016-04-06 }} ''Flight International'', 13 September 2005.</ref>

==Design==
[[File:Frola ? 16983 1243165361 (5719962279).jpg|thumb|A PC-21 on static display, 2009]]

The Pilatus PC-21 is an advanced single-engine trainer aircraft; it is often referred to by Pilatus as being the "Twenty-first Century Trainer".<ref name=spec/><ref name = "next gen trainer"/> The type can be applied for various training capacities, including basic flying training, advanced flight training, full mission management training, and embedded simulation/emulation. In order to perform these functions, the aircraft possesses a powerful, flexible, and cost-effective integrated training system; providing sufficient ease of use for inexperienced pilots while posing greater challenge to advanced pilots.<ref name = "pil brouch"/> According to Pilatus, upon product launch, the PC-21 possessed "superior aerodynamic performance when compared with any other turboprop trainer on the market".<ref name=spec/>

The aircraft features a [[tandem]]-seating arrangement (student in front/instructor behind) in a [[bird strike]]-resistant glass [[Aircraft canopy|canopy]] with allround vision. The cabin, which is pressurized, is equipped with an [[Oxygen concentrator#Military uses|On-Board Oxygen Generation System]] (OBOGS), [[air conditioning]], and [[Martin-Baker]] CH16C [[Ejection seat#Zero-zero ejection seat|Zero-Zero ejection seats]].<ref name=spec/><ref name="pil brouch">[http://www.pilatus-aircraft.com/00-def/main/scripts/ckfinder/userfiles/files/Downloads/Brochures/Pilatus%20Aircraft%20Ltd%20-%20PC-21%20Brochure.pdf "PC-21: 21st Century Training for 21st Century Air Forces."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160409011407/http://www.pilatus-aircraft.com/00-def/main/scripts/ckfinder/userfiles/files/Downloads/Brochures/Pilatus%20Aircraft%20Ltd%20-%20PC-21%20Brochure.pdf |date=2016-04-09 }} ''Pilatus Aircraft'', Retrieved: 23 March 2016.</ref> The flight controls, which are fully balanced and harmonized, are optimized for ease of operation and overall effectiveness.<ref name = "pil brouch"/> An anti-[[g-force|g]] system is also present in order to minimize the effects of high g-forces experienced during tactical training and aerobatic maneuvers. Pilots are able to spend a greater amount of time concentrating on the aircraft's external situation and upon mission data inputs due to an ergonomic design approach, ease-of-use controls, and clear visual/system data displays.<ref name = "pil brouch"/> In addition, a full [[autopilot]] and civil [[flight management system]] are also present.<ref name = "flight test int"/>

The PC-21 is powered by a single [[Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6|Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-68B]] [[turboprop]] engine of 1,600 [[Horsepower#Shaft horsepower|shaft horse power]], which drives a five-bladed [[graphite]] [[scimitar propeller]] manufactured by [[Hartzell Propeller|Hartzell]];<ref name=spec/><ref name = "pil brouch"/> it has been claimed by Pilatus that the PC-21 possesses speed and climb rates previously normally performed only by jet-powered aircraft.<ref name = "pil data"/> It is also fitted with a high-speed profile wing, rated for maneuvers up to 8[[g-force|g]], complete with [[hydraulic]]ally-assisted [[aileron]]s and [[Spoiler (aeronautics)|spoilers]] which enable the execution of fighter-like rates of roll and other maneuvers.<ref name=spec/><ref name = "pil data"/> In order to make the aircraft easy to fly at low speeds, crucial to the advanced trainer role, the PC-21 is furnished with a digital power management system and the [[rudder]] control system is equipped with an automatic [[Aircraft principal axes#Vertical axis (yaw)|yaw]] compensator/suppression system to compensate for [[airspeed]] and engine power changes.<ref name=spec/><ref name = "pil brouch"/><ref name = "pil data">[http://www.pilatus-aircraft.com/#40 "Aircraft Data."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080613164120/http://www.pilatus-aircraft.com/#40 |date=2008-06-13 }} ''Pilatus Aircraft'', Retrieved: 22 March 2016.</ref>
[[File:PC-21 (5089438327).jpg|thumb|left|Underside of a PC-21 in flight]]
A key feature of the PC-21 is the embedded simulation and training suite, which provides cross-platform cockpit emulation, weapons simulation, stores management system, simulated radar and [[electronic warfare]], a tactical situation display, and [[data link]] functionality.<ref name = "pil brouch"/><ref name = "pen simul">Penny, Stewart. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pilatus-unveils-simulation-system-for-pc-21-trainer-166282/ "Pilatus unveils simulation system for PC-21 trainer."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160406091833/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pilatus-unveils-simulation-system-for-pc-21-trainer-166282/ |date=2016-04-06 }} ''Flight International'', 3 June 2003.</ref> Key to this is the Mission Support System (MSS), which comprises the Mission Planning System (MPS) and Mission Debriefing System (MDS); data can be loaded and unloaded from these, which is compatible with ground-based stations for pre-flight configuration or post-mission analysis.<ref name = "pil brouch"/> The integrated mission computer is of an [[open architecture]], allowing for third-party modifications and upgrades to take place; software can also be customized to conform to customer preferences.<ref name = "pil brouch"/><ref>Hoyle, Craig. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pilatus-to-adapt-pc-21-210564/ "Pilatus to adapt PC-21."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160406061832/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pilatus-to-adapt-pc-21-210564/ |date=2016-04-06 }} ''Flight International'', 14 November 2006.</ref> Critical and non-critical software are also deliberately separated.<ref name=spec/>

The cockpit of the PC-21 features a high level of systems integration and conforms to modern avionics standards. The systems of the forward and rear cockpits can be 'de-coupled' between the student and instructor; the instructor may exercise real-time manipulation of the student's displays, sensor performance, and system modes such as to create synthetic air-to-air radar targets, artificial non-safety critical system failures, and controlled data degradation.<ref name = "pil brouch"/><ref name = "pil cockpit"/> The aircraft's fully digital [[glass cockpit]] features three large colour [[liquid crystal display]]s (LCD), one performing as the primary flight display (PFD) and two multi-function displays (MFDs) for system/mission management, in addition to [[CMC Electronics]]-provided [[head-up display]]s (HUD) for both the pilot and instructor.<ref name = "pil brouch"/><ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/integrated-cockpit-is-pillar-of-new-product-strategy-199539/ "Integrated cockpit is pillar of new product strategy."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160406103515/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/integrated-cockpit-is-pillar-of-new-product-strategy-199539/ |date=2016-04-06 }} ''Flight International'', 15 June 2005.</ref> The trim gauge is the only analogue dial in the cockpit.<ref name = "50 market"/> For control simplicity, a [[Hands on Throttle and Stick]] (HOTAS) control philosophy has been followed. Both the display and control systems present also resemble their counterparts used upon modern front-line combat aircraft for greater realism during training; and can be further customized in order to be more representative of specific combat aircraft.<ref name = "flight test int"/><ref name = "pil cockpit">[http://www.pilatus-aircraft.com/#41 "A Cockpit for Maximum Training Value."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080613164120/http://www.pilatus-aircraft.com/#41 |date=2008-06-13 }} ''Pilatus Aircraft'', Retrieved: 22 March 2016.</ref> The multi-sensor navigation system is capable of operating under a military tactical mode as well as a civil navigation mode.<ref name = "pil brouch"/>

==Operational history==

=== Australia ===
The PC-21 was one of the submissions for the [[Royal Australian Air Force]]'s project AIR 5428, which sought a replacement of its Pilatus PC-9s;<ref>Pittaway 2010, p. 20.</ref><ref>Waldron, Greg. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/lockheed-pilatus-hawker-pacific-bid-for-raaf-basic-391266/ "Lockheed, Pilatus, Hawker Pacific bid for RAAF basic trainer deal."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160328081817/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/lockheed-pilatus-hawker-pacific-bid-for-raaf-basic-391266/|date=2016-03-28}} ''Flight International'', 3 October 2013.</ref> in September 2015, it was announced that the consortium comprising Lockheed Martin, Pilatus and Hawker Pacific ("Team 21"), had won the bid to provide 49 PC-21s to the Australian Defence Force.<ref>"Lockheed Martin Wins Air 5428." ''Australian Defence Magazine'',  13 May 2015.</ref><ref>Pittaway, Nigel. [http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/training-simulation/2015/09/10/australia-buy-pc-21-trainers-relocate-basic-training/72031512/ "Australia To Buy PC-21 Trainers, Relocate Basic Training."] ''Defense News'', 11 September 2015.</ref>

=== France ===
In January 2017, Pilatus received a contract for 17 PC-21s by the [[Ministry of the Armed Forces (France)|French Department of Defense]] as a new training aircraft.<ref>{{cite web |date=2017-01-04 |title=L'Armée de l'Air sélectionne l'avion-école Pilatus PC-21 |url=http://www.avionslegendaires.net/2017/01/actu/larmee-de-lair-selectionne-lavion-ecole-pilatus-pc-21 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170701230940/http://www.avionslegendaires.net/2017/01/actu/larmee-de-lair-selectionne-lavion-ecole-pilatus-pc-21/ |archive-date=1 July 2017 |access-date=28 October 2017 |work=www.avionslegendaires.net |language=fr}}</ref> On 31 August 2018, France's defence procurement agency [[Direction générale de l'armement]] announced the arrival of the first two PC-21s. The delivery of the remaining aircraft is scheduled to be completed in 2019.<ref>{{cite web |date=5 September 2018 |title=France receives first two Pilatus PC-21 training aircraft |url=https://www.janes.com/article/82765/france-receives-first-two-pilatus-pc-21-training-aircraft |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180905141441/https://www.janes.com/article/82765/france-receives-first-two-pilatus-pc-21-training-aircraft |archive-date=5 September 2018 |access-date=5 September 2018 |publisher=Jane's 360}}</ref>

In 2024, the PC-21 was used by the French Air Force as a surveillance aircraft during the [[2024 Summer Olympics|2024 Paris Olympics Game]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=4 October 2024 |title=Une armée de l’Air et de l’Espace sur tous les fronts |url=https://www.defense.gouv.fr/air/actualites/armee-lair-lespace-tous-fronts |access-date=2025-04-30 |website=www.defense.gouv.fr}}</ref>

=== Jordan ===
In August 2015, Pilatus received a contract to deliver nine PC-9Ms to the Royal Jordanian Air Force, but in April 2016 changed the order to eight PC-21s. Deliveries were due to start in January 2017 under the original deal.<ref>{{Cite web |date=11 April 2016 |title=Jordan amends Pilatus order to take PC-21 trainers |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/jordan-amends-pilatus-order-to-take-pc-21-trainers-424048/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160417121720/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/jordan-amends-pilatus-order-to-take-pc-21-trainers-424048/ |archive-date=17 April 2016 |access-date=13 April 2016 |publisher=FlightGlobal}}</ref>

=== Qatar ===
In July 2012, it was announced that the [[Qatar Air Force]] had placed an order for a complete pilot training system from Pilatus centering upon the PC-21. The package included ground-based training devices, logistical support and maintenance in addition to 24 PC-21 aircraft.<ref>Pocock, Chris. [http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2012-07-27/pilatus-pc-21-scores-another-pilot-training-win-qatar "Pilatus PC-21 Scores Another Pilot Training Win in Qatar."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181218054609/https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2012-07-27/pilatus-pc-21-scores-another-pilot-training-win-qatar|date=2018-12-18}} ''AIN Online'', 27 July 2012.</ref><ref>Hoyle, Craig. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/first-qatari-pc-21-enters-ground-test-396170/ "First Qatari PC-21 enters ground test."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160406081658/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/first-qatari-pc-21-enters-ground-test-396170/|date=2016-04-06}} ''Flight International'', 20 February 2014.</ref> On 1 October 2014, the Qatar Air Force formally received its first batch of PC-21 trainers.<ref>[http://www.gulf-times.com/story/410667/Emiri-Air-Force-receives-first-batch-of-PC-21-airc "Emiri Air Force receives first batch of PC-21 aircraft."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160406194126/http://www.gulf-times.com/story/410667/Emiri-Air-Force-receives-first-batch-of-PC-21-airc|date=2016-04-06}} ''Gulf Times'', 1 October 2014.</ref><ref>Hoyle, Craig. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/first-pc-21s-head-for-qatar-404299/ "First PC-21s head for Qatar."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160406070802/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/first-pc-21s-head-for-qatar-404299/|date=2016-04-06}} ''Flight International'', 30 September 2014.</ref>

=== Saudi Arabia ===
On 23 May 2012, Saudi Arabia signed a £1.6 billion ($2.5 billion) contract for a comprehensive next-generation military pilot training system, comprising 22 [[BAE Systems Hawk]] advanced jet trainers in addition to 55 PC-21 trainers.<ref name="Saudi deal">Hoyle, Craig. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/saudi-arabia-signs-102-aircraft-military-training-de-372229/ "Saudi Arabia signs 102-aircraft military training deal."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160406112000/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/saudi-arabia-signs-102-aircraft-military-training-de-372229/|date=2016-04-06}} ''Flight International'', 23 May 2012.</ref><ref>Trimble, Stephen, [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pilatus-pc-21s-in-package-deal-with-hawks-for-saudi-372004/ "Pilatus PC-21s in package deal with Hawks for Saudi air force."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160406071612/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pilatus-pc-21s-in-package-deal-with-hawks-for-saudi-372004/|date=2016-04-06}} ''Flight International'', 17 May 2012.</ref> In early June 2014, Pilatus commenced delivery of the first six PC-21s to Saudi Arabia;<ref>Hoyle, Craig. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/saudi-arabia-gets-first-six-pc-21-trainers-400296/ "Saudi Arabia gets first six PC-21 trainers."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160406104044/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/saudi-arabia-gets-first-six-pc-21-trainers-400296/|date=2016-04-06}} ''Flight International'', 11 June 2014.</ref> by the end of 2015, this had risen to 46 PC-21s delivered.<ref>Hoyle, Craig. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/follow-on-purchase-to-boost-saudi-hawk-renewal-422194/ "Follow-on purchase to boost Saudi Hawk renewal."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160406063607/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/follow-on-purchase-to-boost-saudi-hawk-renewal-422194/|date=2016-04-06}} ''Flight International'', 19 February 2016.</ref>

=== Singapore ===
In November 2006, the [[Republic of Singapore Air Force]] (RSAF) awarded a service contract to Lockheed Martin Simulation, Training and Support (LMSTS) to deliver 19 PC-21 aircraft, to support the RSAF's Basic Wings training course at [[RAAF Base Pearce]] in Australia under a [[public–private partnership]] (PPP) arrangement, replacing the [[SIAI-Marchetti S.211]].<ref>[http://www.defense-aerospace.com/articles-view/release/3/75231/singapore-order-to-launch-pilatus-pc_21-production.html "PC-21s to Replace S211s for RSAF's Basic Wings Training."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160406032256/http://www.defense-aerospace.com/articles-view/release/3/75231/singapore-order-to-launch-pilatus-pc_21-production.html|date=2016-04-06}} ''defense-aerospace'', 3 November 2006.</ref><ref>Wastnage, Justin. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/lockheed-martin-pilatus-team-win-singapore-trainer-deal-launch-of-pc-21-production-now-210372/ "Lockheed Martin Pilatus team win Singapore trainer deal, launch of PC-21 production now possible."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160404112552/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/lockheed-martin-pilatus-team-win-singapore-trainer-deal-launch-of-pc-21-production-now-210372/|date=2016-04-04}} ''Flight International'', 3 November 2006.</ref> Singapore was the first export customer for the PC-21.<ref>David, Donald. [https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2016-02-14/australia-joins-singapore-pc-21-club "Australia Joins Singapore in the PC-21 Club."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160216043916/http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2016-02-14/australia-joins-singapore-pc-21-club|date=2016-02-16}} ''AIN Online'', 14 February 2016.</ref> On 21 January 2008, the first RSAF PC-21 completed its flight test prior to being accepted into service.<ref name="RSAF">{{cite press release |title=RSAF Pilatus PC-21 Makes its Maiden Flight |date=15 February 2008 |publisher=[[Ministry of Defence (Singapore)|Ministry of Defence]] (MINDEF) |url=http://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/news_and_events/nr/2008/feb/15feb08_nr2.html |access-date=29 April 2010 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120805153142/http://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/news_and_events/nr/2008/feb/15feb08_nr2.html |archive-date=5 August 2012}}</ref><ref>Warwick, Graham.[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/picture-pilatus-flies-first-pc-21-for-singapore-221670/ "PICTURE: Pilatus flies first PC-21 for Singapore."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160406095352/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/picture-pilatus-flies-first-pc-21-for-singapore-221670/|date=2016-04-06}} ''Flight International'', 19 February 2008.</ref> On 13 July 2008, the type began to provide the RSAF with basic flying training, by which point a further six aircraft had been delivered.<ref name="fact">{{cite press release |title=Basic Flying Training on the Pilatus PC-21 Aircraft Trainer Commences |date=13 July 2008 |publisher=MINDEF |url=http://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/news_and_events/nr/2008/jul/13jul08_nr.html |access-date=29 April 2010 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080830033910/http://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/news_and_events/nr/2008/jul/13jul08_nr.html |archive-date=30 August 2008}}</ref>

=== Spain ===
The PC-21 has been evaluated by the [[Spanish Air Force]] (along with the [[Beechcraft T-6 Texan II]] and the [[PZL-130 Orlik|PZL-130 Orlik III]]), to serve as the gradual replacement for their older training aircraft models [[ENAER T-35 Pillan]] and [[CASA C-101 Aviojet]] trainer aircraft.<ref name="Revista">{{citation |title=Evaluación del PC-21 Pilatus como entrenador Elemental/Básico/Avanzado |date=November 2008 |journal=[[Ejército del Aire de España]] |number=778}}</ref>
January 2020 saw the Spanish Air Force confirm an order for 24 of a total 40 PC‑21 aircraft. The first two examples arrived in September 2021, and the initial batch from that first order was completed in June 2022. Deliveries of the second batch of 16 aircraft —announced in 2023— began in June 2025.
PC-21 aircraft will replace  the CASA C-101 Aviojet, but will also take over advanced training, which is currently carried out on the T-35 Pillan.<ref>{{cite web |title=The Spanish Air Force Buys PC-21 Training System Including 24 Aircraft |url=https://www.pilatus-aircraft.com/en/news-events/media-release/the-spanish-air-force-buys-PC-21-training-system-including-24-aircraft |website=Pilatus Aircraft}}</ref>
As an incidental detail, during the military training programme for the heir to the Spanish throne, Her Royal Highness the Princess of Asturias, Doña Leonor, completed her training and her first solo flight in one of the received Pilatus aircraft.
<ref>{{cite web |title=
https://www.aviacionline.com/espanol/defensa/europa/espana/la-princesa-leonor-completa-su-primer-vuelo-en-solitario-en-la-academia-general-del-aire-y-del-espacio_a69456a117a89b44e00c70ba1}}</ref>

=== Switzerland ===
[[File:Pilatus PC-21, Pilatus AN1852215.jpg|thumb|A PC-21 landing at [[RAF Fairford]], England, 2010]]
In the Armament Program 2006, the [[Federal Assembly (Switzerland)|Swiss Parliament]] approved an initial purchase of the PC-21 for the [[Swiss Air Force]]. By April 2008, four PC-21 have been accepted by the Swiss Air Force following the passing of acceptance trials, and flight operations were set to start in July that year.<ref>{{cite press release | url=https://www.news.admin.ch/en/nsb?id=18550 | title=Acceptance of the first four Pilatus PC-21 by armasuisse | publisher=Swiss Federation | access-date=29 April 2010 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090227002521/http://www.news.admin.ch/message/index.html?lang=en&msg-id=18550 | archive-date=27 February 2009 | url-status=live }}</ref> In December 2010, the Swiss Air Force placed an order for another two aircraft.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.defpro.com/news/details/20711/|title=Pilatus Wins PC-21 Follow-up Order From the Swiss Air Force|last=Stans|date=17 December 2010|publisher=Pilatus Aircraft|access-date=22 June 2013|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120729174954/http://www.defpro.com/news/details/20711/|archive-date=29 July 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>Trimble, Stephen. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pilatus-receives-follow-on-pc-21-trainer-order-from-351075/ "Pilatus receives follow-on PC-21 trainer order from Swiss air force."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160406073735/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pilatus-receives-follow-on-pc-21-trainer-order-from-351075/ |date=2016-04-06 }} ''Flight International'', 17 December 2010.</ref>

=== United Arab Emirates ===
During the 2009 [[Dubai Airshow]], the [[United Arab Emirates]] announced an order of 25 PC-21 trainers for the [[United Arab Emirates Air Force]] (UAEAF) to replace its aging fleet of [[Pilatus PC-7]]s.<ref name="UAE">{{cite web|url=http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2009/11/17/335112/dubai-09-uae-signs-deal-for-25-pc-21-trainers.html|title=Dubai 09: UAE signs deal for 25 PC-21 trainers|last=Craig|first=Hoyle|date=17 November 2009|publisher=[[Flightglobal.com|Flight Global]]|access-date=30 September 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091122222057/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2009/11/17/335112/dubai-09-uae-signs-deal-for-25-pc-21-trainers.html|archive-date=22 November 2009|url-status=live}}</ref> On 22 November 2010, the UAEAF's first PC-21 performed its maiden flight.<ref name="AFM274-1">{{cite magazine|date=February 2011|title=UAE's first PC-21 flown|magazine=[[Air Forces Monthly]]|publisher=[[Key Publishing|Key Publishing Ltd]]|issue= 274|page=26|issn=0955-7091}}</ref><ref>Hoyle, Craig. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pictures-uaes-first-pc-21-makes-flight-debut-350071/ "PICTURES: UAE's first PC-21 makes flight debut."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160406101744/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pictures-uaes-first-pc-21-makes-flight-debut-350071/ |date=2016-04-06 }} ''Flight International'', 23 November 2010.</ref> 

==Operators==
[[File:Pilatus PC-21 operators.png|thumb|400px|right|Main countries in which the Swiss Pilatus PC-21 aircraft operates in the world.]]
[[File:Pilatus pc-21 1.jpg|thumb|upright|Pair of PC-21s, 2004]]

=== Current operators ===
;{{Flag|Australia}} (49)
: [[Royal Australian Air Force]]: 49 ordered September 2015, deliveries completed November 2019.<ref>{{cite web|title=Lockheed's "Team 21" finally confirmed as AIR 5428 winning bidder|url=http://australianaviation.com.au/2015/09/lockheeds-team-21-finally-confirmed-as-air-5428-winning-bidder/|website=Australian Aviation|publisher=australianaviation.com.au|access-date=27 October 2015|date=2015-09-06|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150919154800/http://australianaviation.com.au/2015/09/lockheeds-team-21-finally-confirmed-as-air-5428-winning-bidder/|archive-date=19 September 2015|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Hoyle|first1=Craig|title=Australia welcomes first six PC-21s to East Sale|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/australia-welcomes-first-six-pc-21s-to-east-sale-440375/|website=Flight Global|access-date=17 August 2017|archive-url=https://archive.today/20170817135102/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/australia-welcomes-first-six-pc-21s-to-east-sale-440375/|archive-date=17 August 2017|location=London|date=17 August 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref>
;{{Flag|France}} (17 + 9)
: [[French Air and Space Force]] (Armée de l'air et de l'espace): 17 ordered January 2017,<ref>{{cite web|title=Pilatus Sells 21 PC-21s, Including 17 for the French Air Force|url=https://www.pilatus-aircraft.com/en/news-events/media-release/pilatus-sells-21-pc-21s-including-17-for-the-french-air-force|website=[[Pilatus Aircraft]]|access-date=17 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170817135508/https://www.pilatus-aircraft.com/en/news-events/media-release/pilatus-sells-21-pc-21s-including-17-for-the-french-air-force|archive-date=17 August 2017|date=4 January 2017}}</ref> all delivered by August 2019, 9 additional ordered in 2021 to be delivered in 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lagneau |first=Laurent |date=2021-07-17 |title=La France commande 9 avions d'entraînement PC-21 de plus auprès du constructeur suisse Pilatus |url=https://www.opex360.com/2021/07/17/la-france-commande-9-avions-dentrainement-pc-21-de-plus-aupres-du-constructeur-suisse-pilatus/ |access-date=2023-06-16 |website=Zone Militaire |language=fr-FR}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=L'Armée française passe commande de 9 avions à la Suisse |url=https://www.bfmtv.com/economie/entreprises/industries/l-armee-francaise-passe-commande-de-9-avions-a-la-suisse_AN-202107160288.html |access-date=2023-06-16 |website=BFM BUSINESS |language=fr}}</ref><ref name=":19">{{Cite web |date=15 December 2023 |title=World Air Forces 2024 |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/download?ac=98881 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240105033828/https://www.flightglobal.com/download?ac=98881 |archive-date=5 January 2024 |access-date=13 April 2024}}</ref>
;{{Flag|Jordan}} (12)
: [[Royal Jordanian Air Force]]: 12 delivered as of August 2019 (8 ordered in 2015 instead of 9 [[Pilatus PC-9|PC-9M]], 2 additional option converted in October 2016, 2 additional ordered in January 2017.<ref name=":19" /><ref>{{Cite web |date=2018-09-06 |title=Royal Jordanian Air Force PC-21s |url=https://www.vayuaerospace.in/article/56/royal-jordanian-air-force-pc-21s |access-date=2024-11-28 |website=Vayu Aerospace and Defence Review |language=English}}</ref>
;{{Flag|Qatar}}  (24)
: [[Qatar Emiri Air Force]]: 24 ordered July 2012, first delivery in 2014.<ref name="QAT">{{cite web |last=Craig |first=Hoyle |date=23 July 2012 |title=Qatar signs deal for 24 Pilatus PC-21s |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/qatar-signs-deal-for-24-pilatus-pc-21s-374615/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121106050844/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/qatar-signs-deal-for-24-pilatus-pc-21s-374615/ |archive-date=6 November 2012 |access-date=29 September 2012 |publisher=Flight Global}}</ref>
;{{Flag|Saudi Arabia}} (55)
: [[Royal Saudi Air Force]]: 55 ordered May 2012, first delivery in 2014.<ref name="Saudi deal" />
;{{Flag|Singapore}} (19)
: [[Republic of Singapore Air Force]]: launch customer; operates 19 in Australia on Basic Wings Course (BWC) as part of a contract for availability, together with Lockheed Martin and Hawker Pacific.
;{{Flag|Spain}} (40)
: [[Spanish Air and Space Force]]: total of 40 purchased in two batches.
: Orders:
:* 24 ordered in January 2020<ref>{{Cite web|title=The Spanish Air Force Buys PC-21 Training System Including 24 Aircraft|url=https://www.edrmagazine.eu/the-spanish-air-force-buys-pc-21-training-system-including-24-aircraft|website=EDR Magazine|date=2020-01-31|access-date=2025-11-30|language=en-GB|first=Paolo|last=Valpolini}}</ref>, the deliveries of the first batch took place in: 
:** September 2021, first two PC-21 delivered<ref>{{Cite web|title=First PC-21s delivered to Spain|url=https://www.scramble.nl/military-news/first-pc-21s-delivered-to-spain|website=www.scramble.nl|date=2021-09-14|access-date=2025-11-30|language=en-GB|first=Hans van|last=Herk}}</ref>
:** Last in mid-2022<ref>{{Cite web|title=The Spanish Air Force Buys Another 16 PC-21s & Associated Simulators|url=https://www.pilatus-aircraft.com/en/news/die-spanische-luftwaffe-kauft-weitere-16-pc-21-und-dazugehoerige-simulatoren|website=Pilatus Aircraft|access-date=2025-11-30|language=en-US|first=Januar Designbüro GmbH, Zürich|last=januar.ch}}</ref>
:* 16 ordered in March 2023<ref>{{Cite web|title=The Spanish Air Force Buys Another 16 PC-21s & Associated Simulators|url=https://www.pilatus-aircraft.com/en/news/die-spanische-luftwaffe-kauft-weitere-16-pc-21-und-dazugehoerige-simulatoren|website=Pilatus Aircraft|access-date=2025-11-30|language=en-US|first=Januar Designbüro GmbH, Zürich|last=januar.ch}}</ref>, the deliveries of the first batch took place in: 
:** First in June 2024<ref>{{Cite web|title=A good year for the Pilatus PC-21|url=https://aerospaceglobalnews.com/news/a-good-year-for-the-pilatus-pc-21/|website=AGN|date=2025-02-20|access-date=2025-11-30|language=en-en|first=Jon|last=Lake}}</ref>
:** Last in November 2025.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Les PC-21 espagnols au complet !|url=https://www.avianews.ch/post/les-pc-21-espagnols-au-complet|website=Avia news|date=2025-11-30|access-date=2025-11-30|language=fr|first=|last=}}</ref>
;{{Flag|Switzerland}} (8)
: [[Swiss Air Force]]: operates 8 for advanced training, replacing the [[BAE Systems Hawk|BAe Hawk]] which had been retired in 2003.
;{{Flag|United Arab Emirates}} (25)
: [[United Arab Emirates Air Force]]: operates 25 for advanced training, first flight made on 22 November 2010. CHF 520 million deal<ref name=":19" />
;{{Flag|United Kingdom}} (2)
: [[Qinetiq]]: operates two for advanced training on behalf of the [[Empire Test Pilot School]] at Boscombe Down. <ref>{{Cite web |last=Hoyle |first=Craig |date=2019-08-08 |title=ETPS activities soar after major fleet renewal |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/fixed-wing/etps-activities-soar-after-major-fleet-renewal/133446.article |website=Flight Global}}</ref>
=== Future operators ===

;{{Flag|Canada}} (19)
: SkyAlyne was selected to train the future Canadian Air Force pilot in cooperation with CAE and KF Aerospace through the programme FAcT (''Future Aircrew Training''). The pilots will be trained on [[Grob G 120TP|Grob 120TP]] (CT-102B Astra II), PC-21 (CT-157 Siskin II), [[Beechcraft Super King Air|King Air 260]] (CT-145E Expeditor II), [[H135]] (CT-153 Juno) and [[De Havilland Canada Dash 8|Dash 8-400]] (CT-142Q Citadel) depending on the assignment.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Finnerty |first=Ryan |title=Canada announces $8bn acquisition of 71 trainer aircraft for RCAF |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/fixed-wing/canada-announces-8bn-acquisition-of-71-trainer-aircraft-for-rcaf/158517.article |date=2024-05-29 |access-date=2024-05-31 |website=Flight Global |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Patrick |first=Kümmerling |date=2023-12-26 |title=Le Pilatus PC-21 pour le Canada ! |url=https://www.avianews.ch/post/le-pilatus-pc-21-pour-le-canada |access-date=2023-12-26 |website=Avia news |language=fr}}</ref> The purchase was confirmed in November 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-11-28 |title=Canada to acquire 19 Pilatus PC-21 aircraft for RCAF under Future Aircrew Training program - Wings MagazineWings Magazine |url=https://www.wingsmagazine.com/canada-to-acquire-19-pilatus-pc-21-aircraft-for-rcaf/ |access-date=2024-11-28 |website=www.wingsmagazine.com |language=en-US}}</ref>

=== Potential customers ===
;{{Flag|Bulgaria}}
: [[Bulgarian Air Force]]: The [[Ministry of Defence (Bulgaria)|Bulgarian Ministry of Defence]] will be in talks with [[Pilatus Aircraft]] to acquire PC-21s to replace its [[Pilatus PC-9|PC-9Ms]](And possibly [[Aero L-39 Albatros|L-39s]]) as part of the [[F-16|F-16 Block 70]] modernization project.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Янев |first=Симеон |date=2024-07-16 |title=Румен Радев литна с ново поколение учебно-тренировъчен самолет |url=https://news.bg/politics/rumen-radev-litna-s-novo-pokolenie-uchebno-trenirovachen-samolet.html |access-date=2024-07-17 |website=News.bg |language=bulgarian}}</ref>
;{{Flag|Malaysia}}
: [[Royal Malaysian Air Force]]<ref name=rs>{{Cite web |date=17 August 2023 |title=Why the Pilatus PC-21 is a revolutionary military trainer |url=https://www.key.aero/article/why-pilatus-pc-21-revolutionary-military-trainer |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231103005946/https://www.key.aero/article/why-pilatus-pc-21-revolutionary-military-trainer |archive-date=3 November 2023 |access-date=11 April 2024 |website=Key Aero}}</ref>

;{{Flag|Sweden}}
: [[Swedish Air Force]]: requires a successor for its [[Saab 105]] fleet.<ref>{{Cite web | url=https://www.flightglobal.com/download?ac=90688 | title=2023 World Air Forces | website=www.flightglobal.com | publisher=[[Flight International]]| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250304100341/https://www.flightglobal.com/download?ac=90688 | archive-date=2025-03-04 | url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Hoyle |first=Craig |title=Saab, Pilatus to pitch PC-21 trainer to Sweden |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/saab-pilatus-to-pitch-pc-21-trainer-to-sweden/112811.article |date=2014-03-31 |access-date=2023-11-02 |website=Flight Global |language=en}}</ref> A strong contender is the [[Boeing–Saab T-7 Red Hawk|T-7 Red Hawk]], partially designed and manufactured by [[Saab AB|Saab]], however the price of the PC-21 is an advantage.
;{{Flag|United Kingdom}} 
: Pilatus joined the tender process for the replacement of the [[BAE Systems Hawk|BAE Hawk]] of the [[Royal Air Force]].<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2025-07-15 |title=Le PC-21 pour remplacer les Hawk de la RAF ? |url=https://www.avianews.ch/post/le-pc-21-pour-remplacer-les-hawk-de-la-raf |access-date=2025-07-15 |website=Avia news |language=fr}}</ref>

==Specifications (PC-21)==
[[File:pilatus.pc-21.fairford2006.arp.jpg|thumb|The Pilatus PC-21; note the stepped tandem cockpit]]
{{External media|topic= |width=20% |float=right |video1=[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dUyZJV7zpIU Swiss Air Force PC-21 flight demonstration at the Breitling Sion Airshow 2011] |video2=[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PaErmMEMC9Y In-cockpit video of PC-21 takeoff] |video3=[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BExHVHAL1gc PC-21s at Koor Airport, Qatar]}}
{{Aircraft specs
|ref= [[Pilatus Aircraft]]<ref name=spec>{{cite web |url=http://www.pilatus-aircraft.com/00-def/main/scripts/ckfinder/userfiles/files/Downloads/Brochures/Pilatus%20Aircraft%20Ltd%20-%20PC-21%20Fact%20Sheet.pdf |title=Pilatus: PC-21 fact sheet |publisher=Pilatus Aircraft Ltd |access-date=29 April 2010 |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100401035249/http://www.pilatus-aircraft.com/00-def/main/scripts/ckfinder/userfiles/files/Downloads/Brochures/Pilatus%20Aircraft%20Ltd%20-%20PC-21%20Fact%20Sheet.pdf |archive-date=1 April 2010 }}</ref><ref name = "pil brouch"/><ref name=webspec>{{cite web |url=https://www.pilatus-aircraft.com/en/pc-21/technical-data |title=Pilatus PC-21 – Technical Specifications |website=Pilatus Aircraft |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250426214929/https://www.pilatus-aircraft.com/en/pc-21/technical-data |archive-date=26 April 2025 |url-status=live |access-date=19 May 2025 }}</ref>
|prime units?=met
<!--
        General characteristics
-->
|crew=2
|length m=11.233
|length note=
|span m=9.108
|span note=
|height m=3.74
|height note=
|wing area sqm=15.221
|wing area note=
|aspect ratio=<!-- sailplanes -->
|airfoil=
|empty weight kg=2270
|empty weight note=
|gross weight kg=
|gross weight note=
|max takeoff weight kg=3100
|max takeoff weight note=aerobatic
::::{{cvt|4250|kg|0}} normal
|fuel capacity=
|more general=
<!--
        Powerplant
-->
|eng1 number=1
|eng1 name=[[Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-68B]]
|eng1 type=[[turboprop]] engine
|eng1 kw=1200
|eng1 note=

|prop blade number=5
|prop name=constant-speed propeller
|prop dia m=2.39<ref>[https://www.pilatus-aircraft.com/data/document/Pilatus-Aircraft-Ltd-PC-21-Brochure.pdf Pilatus PC-21 Brochure] Pilatus</ref>
|prop dia note=
<!--
        Performance
-->
|max speed kmh=685
|max speed note=at sea level
|cruise speed kmh=620
|cruise speed note=at {{cvt|10000|ft|m|0}}
|stall speed kmh=170
|stall speed note=gear and flaps up ({{cvt|20|km/h|mph kn}} less with flaps and gear down)
|never exceed speed kmh=
|never exceed speed note=
|range km=1333
|range note=
|combat range km=
|combat range note=
|ferry range km=
|ferry range note=
|endurance=<!-- if range unknown -->
|ceiling m=11580<!-- Pilatus web page says 7620 m -->
|ceiling note=
|g limits= <big>+</big>8.0 <big>–</big>4.0 aerobatic / <big>+</big>5.0 to <big>–</big>2.5 utility
|roll rate=200°/s
|roll rate note=at {{cvt|10000|ft|m|0}}
|climb rate ms=20.317<!-- Pilatus web page says 20.37 m/s -->
|climb rate note=sea level
|time to altitude=
|wing loading kg/m2=208
|wing loading note=
|fuel consumption kg/km=
|power/mass={{cvt|0.39|kW/kg}}
|thrust/weight=
|more performance=
<!--
        Armament
-->
|armament=
* '''[[Hardpoint]]s:''' Provisions provided for 4× under-wing and 1× centerline external store stations, capable of mounting up to {{convert|1150|kg|lb|abbr=on}} of payload of air-to-ground weapons to operate in the [[counter-insurgency]] role.<ref name=rs/>
|avionics=
}}

==See also==
{{Portal|Switzerland|Aviation}}
{{Aircontent|
|related=
* [[Pilatus PC-7]]
* [[Pilatus PC-9]]
** [[Beechcraft T-6 Texan II]]
|similar aircraft= 
* [[Embraer EMB 314 Super Tucano]]
* [[KAI KT-1 Woongbi]]
* [[TAI Hürkuş]]
|lists=
|see also=
}}

==References==
;Notes
{{Reflist}}

;Bibliography
{{refbegin}}
* {{Cite journal |last=Pittaway |first=Nigel |title=ADF pilot training under contract |journal=Defence Today |volume=8 |issue=2 |pages=20–21 |date=March 2010 |issn=1447-0446 }}
{{refend}}

==External links==
{{commons category|Pilatus PC-21}}
* [https://www.pilatus-aircraft.com/en/fly/pc-21 Pilatus PC-21 Official Site]

{{Pilatus aircraft}}
{{Canadian Forces aircraft}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Pilatus Pc-21}}
[[Category:Pilatus aircraft|PC-21]]
[[Category:2000s Swiss military trainer aircraft]]
[[Category:Single-engined tractor aircraft]]
[[Category:Low-wing aircraft]]
[[Category:Single-engined turboprop aircraft]]
[[Category:Aircraft first flown in 2002]]
[[Category:Aircraft with retractable tricycle landing gear]]