PC12 Ownership vs. Chartering: Is It Time to Buy a Pilatus PC12?
The Pilatus PC-12 is a true workhorse—renowned for its performance, efficiency, and versatility. If you're considering making the jump from chartering to ownership, you're not alone. The question is: When does it make financial sense to own rather than charter?
Pilatus PC12 Cost of Ownership Vs Chartering (per $100,000.00 USD)
How Many Flight Hours Justify Buying a PC-12?
One of the biggest factors in the ownership vs. chartering debate is the break-even point—the number of flight hours where owning becomes more cost-effective than chartering.
Our cost analysis, based on real-world operating expenses and industry averages, suggests that if you’re flying more than 250-300 hours annually, owning a PC-12 often makes financial sense. That said, there are several other factors to consider: financing, tax benefits, management fees, and resale value—all of which can shift the equation.
If your flight hours are below that range, fractional ownership might be a middle-ground solution, reducing your upfront investment while still providing some ownership benefits.
PC-12 Annual Flight Hours Cost Estimator
Adjust the slider to estimate your annual flight hours:
Annual Flight Hours: 0
At TurbineProps, we specialize in PC-12 sales, acquisitions, and management solutions—ensuring you get the most out of this incredible aircraft. Get in touch and see why the Pilatus PC12 is one of the hottest investments of the 2025 Aviation Market.
Breaking Down PC-12 Ownership Costs
Owning a PC-12 comes with fixed and variable costs that need to be factored into your decision. Let’s take a closer look:
Variable Costs
(Per Flight Hour—Only Incurred When Flying):
Fuel: $600 - $700
Maintenance & Engine Reserves: $400 - $600
Landing & Handling Fees: $100 - $150
Miscellaneous (Crew Expenses, Catering, etc.): $50 - $100
Total Variable Cost Range: $1,200 - $1,550 per hour
Fixed Costs
(Annual Expenses—Paid Whether You Fly or Not):
Crew Salaries & Benefits: $150,000 - $250,000
Insurance (Hull & Liability): $30,000 - $50,000
Hangar & Storage: $40,000 - $80,000
Scheduled Maintenance & Inspections: $80,000 - $120,000
Subscriptions (Charts, WiFi, Weather, etc.): $10,000 - $20,000
Miscellaneous (Registration, Legal, Admin, etc.): $10,000 - $30,000
Total Fixed Costs Range: $400,000 - $600,000 per year
Illustrated in the graphs below, Fractional ownership significantly lowers the barrier to entry for aircraft ownership, as shown in the half-share and one-third share models. The breakeven point—the point at which the total cost of fractional ownership equals or becomes more cost-effective than chartering a PC-12—is significantly lower than that of full ownership. This is because expenses such as maintenance, insurance, and pilot salaries are shared among multiple owners, reducing the financial burden on each individual. In a half-share model, breakeven occurs between 150-200 hours per year, while in a three-owner model, it drops further to 100-150 hours per year. With more owners, this threshold could be even lower, making private aircraft access more financially viable for those who fly less frequently but still require the convenience and reliability of ownership.
The data also highlights corporate ownership while excluding charter and air taxi operations, focusing solely on businesses and organizations that operate a PC-12 for internal use. This analysis assumes generalized industry data and does not account for the unique variables of individual ownership, such as financing, tax benefits, and operational efficiencies. Actual breakeven points can differ significantly depending on an owner's specific usage and financial structure. Contact us today to discuss your unique aviation needs and receive a tailored breakeven analysis for your ownership scenario.
Cost Comparison: Private Ownership vs. Chartering
50 Hours Annually:
Chartering: $100,000 - $175,000
Ownership: ~$535,000 (chartering is the clear winner at this level)
100 Hours Annually:
Chartering: $200,000 - $350,000
Ownership: ~$570,000 ($5,700 per hour)
200 Hours Annually:
Chartering: $400,000 - $700,000
Ownership: ~$640,000 ($3,200 per hour)
400 Hours Annually:
Chartering: $800,000 - $1.4 million
Ownership: $580,000 - $1,180,000 ($1,450 per hour)
Pilatus PC-12 Owner vs Charter Trip Cost Calculator
Do you commute often between the same cities? Use the tool to the left to approximate the costs and flight time of various trips operating the Pilatus PC12. Develop better insight into charter costs versus owner operated costs. These owner estimates are inclusive of expenses based on the fixed and variable costs mentioned above.
Note: This tool is designed for one-way non-stop flights. destinations of distance beyond the PC-12 range will display a note. In these cases a fuel stop will be required.
Why Ownership Offers More Than Just Cost Savings
Access to Remote Airports: Fly to destinations charter operators may not service.
Stop paying for “Empty Legs”: Flights that charter operators use to reach your preferred airports.
Know your Pilot: Owning a PC12 usually means having dedicated crews for safe transport.
Option to Charter: Under Part 135 Management Owners can charter their aircraft to offset costs.
Always Available: No more relying on charter availability or scheduling conflicts.
Last-Minute Flexibility: Change plans without cancellation fees.
Customized Experience: Configure your aircraft exactly how you want it.
Maximize Value: PC12s retain their market value. You can always sell or upgrade your aircraft.
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy a PC-12?
If you’re flying 250+ hours per year, ownership can provide substantial cost savings, flexibility, and long-term value compared to chartering. For those flying 100-250 hours annually, it’s worth exploring fractional ownership or a managed solution.
Wanna learn more about the PC12? Check out our Comprehensive Guide to the Pilatus PC-12. Want to discuss your options? Contact us at to explore how PC-12 ownership can work for you!