UAE-based GI Aviation has added a second PC-12 NG to its fleet, based at Al Bateen Executive airport. The company was the first to introduce commercial SET operations to the Middle East with a PC-12.

Sales and marketing manager Maha Makled says that the response from customers to the type has been overwhelmingly positive. The aircraft typically flies on two and a half hour sectors, and popular destinations include Riyadh, Bahrain, Kuwait and leisure beauty spot Sir Bani Yas, an island south west of Abu Dhabi.

General manager Patrick Gordon says: “I have moved from VVIP Boeing Business Jets to the PC-12 NG and I love it. The GI team is smart, motivated and enthusiastic, and I am having fun.”

The most recent member of the team is Ilhama Saadatova, who joins as head of sales and marketing. GI is currently looking to add two more captains to its team, having already employed experienced PC-12 air crew from Brazil, Switzerland and the UK.

Gordon continues: “The PC-12 NG is new and fills an interesting niche. The aircraft has been very successful in the US, and is now expanding to Europe. As the pioneer here we are pleased to be offering nighttime, IFR flights throughout the region. Many newcomers to business aviation are discovering that flying the PC-12 can bring great time savings at an affordable cost. The GCAA has been extremely supportive.”

GI's maintenance provider is Falcon Aviation, which also assisted with the re-registration of its second PC-12 NG. Falcon has made a significant investment in parts and tooling for the type, as well as engineers and technicians. “We are seeing the opening up of an exciting entry level for charter in the UAE and beyond,” comments Falcon Aviation director of maintenance Nicolas Tejera.