Swiss airframer Pilatus Aircraft had one of its best years in terms of financial results in 2022 even though deliveries slipped to 133 units. Despite headwinds from the Ukraine war and lingering supply chain disruptions from the pandemic, the manufacturer posted 2022 revenues of CHF 1.3 billion and orders worth CHF 1.6 billion, which swelled its backlog to CHF 2.4 billion. Earnings rose by 7.6 percent to CHF 226 million. Those financials were an improvement over its 2021 totals when the company set a new production record as it delivered 152 aircraft.
Last year the OEM handed over 40 PC-24 light jets, 80 PC-12 NGX turboprop singles, 10 PC-21 military trainers, and three PC-6 utility airplanes. While the U.S. generally accounts for the lion’s share of new aircraft deliveries at most OEMs, only 42 percent of Pilatus’ output last year found its way there, followed by 35 percent to Europe and 12 percent to Asian customers.
“Rarely has the company had to operate in such a geopolitically unpredictable period. Never before have we encountered such serious supply-chain difficulties,” said CEO Markus Bucher. “Pilatus has achieved a lot whilst also benefitting from exceptionally high demand for our unique aircraft.” Company chairman Hansueli Loosli added: “Our PC-12 NGXs and PC-24s were, and are, absolute bestsellers—our order books are full.” Among the milestones it expects to reach this year are deliveries of the 2,000th PC-12 and 200th PC-24.
While deliveries represent the majority of Pilatus’ income, its customer service business continues to grow, increasing by 10 percent in 2022. Last year, the company acquired U.S. sales and maintenance provider Skytech, which has bases in Maryland and South Carolina to serve its U.S. East Coast-based customers. Pilatus is planning to bolster its European maintenance capacity as well with the anticipated start of construction of a new repair facility in Buochs, Switzerland, as well as a new composite structures building in nearby Ennetbürgen.
