Pilatus PC6 loading (C of G issues)

[Sam Rutherford]

Just been working with an Antonov AN2 (!), where we had issues when the promised 600+ kgs load wasn't possible because it couldn't be loaded far enough forward (ran out of CG position before MTOW).

So, looking for alternatives, one being the PC6.

But, as also a tailwheel, does it suffer the same issues (ie if your cargo is not particularly dense, you can be forced to have too much weight towards the tail)?

Cheers, Sam.

[StudentPilot479]

Porters can have CG issues, particularly B2-H4 models since the gross weight keeps going up but the cabin doesn't get any bigger. Depending on your bulky cargo, you may or may not run out of room first. If it is bulky enough, you won't have CG issues.

Since I flew Porters, I have heard that Pilatus put out an AFM revision with the new planes that adds a cargo tie-down section. From what I was told you will be doing good to get 550 kg of cargo tied down in the plane legally. I have asked a couple current Porter pilots flying B2-H2s converted to B2-H4s about the new cargo tie-down section, but they had no clue what I was talking about. Not sure if it doesn't apply to all Porters, if Pilatus was not doing a good job notifying operators of the revision, or if that operator was a little lax on getting the AFM updated.

[Sam Rutherford]

Limited to 550kgs is a big issue - half what it should be able to carry...

[StudentPilot479]

Well, about 60%. But only if your cargo fits the requirements. If your cargo is the wrong shape or too bulky it may be even less that fits. It made a niche aircraft fit an even smaller niche - at least as far as hauling cargo legally goes (assuming it applies to all Porters). A really fun plane to fly with great performance, but I don't think I would ever consider one if I were looking for a plane to work.

As I said, not everyone knows (or it may not be applicable, or they may not care) about this, and at least one operator is still loading their Porter as they always have. Ask whoever you are considering to charter/lease/contract about any restrictions or limits.