Oriens Aviation Now an Authorised Pilatus PC-24 Service Center
Oriens Aviation, the Authorised Pilatus Center for the British Isles, can now add the Williams FJ44 service station status to its expertise, as it celebrates becoming a fully authorized PC-24 Service Center. Oriens completed its first annual check on a PC-24 Super Versatile Jet for a private UK customer at its London Biggin Hill Airport facility the week of Feb. 15, adding to its capability on the PC-12 family.
In addition, the independently owned company has obtained its EASA Part 145 accreditation, alongside its national UK CAA certificate, enabling it to continue working on European-registered PC-12 and PC-24 aircraft, post Brexit. This is an important move as a number of Oriens’ customers, especially on the PC-12, come to the UK from overseas.
“We are delighted to broaden our expertise on the Pilatus Aircraft family - and become the Williams approved service station for the FJ44 engine serving the Pilatus PC-24 in the UK,” said Edwin Brenninkmeyer, Oriens Aviation CEO, applauding his team in securing these important milestones, in the midst of the pandemic. “It is timely too, as we mark our third anniversary at our newest Biggin Hill home,” he added.
Since the launch of its maintenance facilities in 2018, Oriens has doubled its workforce and made a significant investment in training and tooling.
The business has kept open to support essential MRO during the first, second and ongoing lockdown in the UK. “We are pleased to have offered continued seamless support for our new and existing clients,” noted Oriens Aviation maintenance general manager Stuart Locke.
“Sales interest in the PC-12 NGX and the PC-24 jet from potential UK and Ireland customers has not abated either,” commented Brenninkmeyer. Oriens has sold all of its new Pilatus aircraft positions for 2021. However, customers can still secure new PC-12 NGX and PC-24 positions for delivery in 2022.
“Pilatus’ announcement late last year that it has secured EASA and FAA approval for a 10-passenger seat PC-24 is an exciting development,” Brenninkmeyer highlighted. He is hopeful that it may trigger interest from the corporate market – when the borders open up.
“Health and safety concerns are uppermost, so travelling in a secure environment is a big driver for entrepreneurs and business owners who want to keep their employees and families safe. This 10-seat variant could be especially appealing as a corporate shuttle,” suggested Brenninkmeyer.
“The PC-24 is unique in its class, with its mid-size cabin, combining jet speed and short runway performance (paved and unpaved) from 893 metres upwards, with an attractive 17sq ft aft cargo door.”
“Over five years the Oriens team have made an enormous contribution adding to and supporting our Pilatus family and we are delighted that Oriens Aviation is now a fully approved PC-24 Service Centre,” said Ignaz Gretener, vice president general aviation of Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. “This will give even greater flexibility to our clients when planning their maintenance visits. Oriens’ base at Biggin Hill remains a highly attractive business aviation airport for many of the Pilatus customers, with good opening hours.”
Oriens’ mission is to deliver a high quality, responsive, end to end service to all Pilatus Customers – from sales, AOC advice, aircraft management advisory, MRO and pilot training.
