BOOK A FLIGHT TODAY IN AN EX-RAAF PILATUS PC9A

Experience the adrenaline of military adventure flights with the team at Danger Close Aviation

(Commencing flight bookings before June 2025.....)

OUR AIRCRAFT

The ex-RAAF Pilatus PC9A A23-018 VH-ZYK

The PC9A (Operational from 1989-2019) is an Ex Royal Australian Air Force Advanced Trainer and Forward Air Control (FAC) platform. It was utilised by the Roulettes, Central Flying School, ARDU, 2 Flight Training School and 4 Squadron. Its 4 Squadron primary tactical role involved the Close-Air-Support (CAS) training of JTACs (Joint Terminal Attack Controller). With a top speed of 320 Knots (600 km/hr), and the ability to employ underwing offensive smoke or weapons, it was and still remains a formidable platform. Rated at 950 Shaft Horse power, and powered by arguably the safest turboprop engine ever designed, the Pratt and Whitney PT6A-62. You are in safe hands.

HOW DO I BOOK

We are finalising Ground Support Equipment and legislation requirements

We anticipate the commencement of adventure flights prior to June 2025. To contact us, fill in the contact form or email us at: info@dangercloseaviation.com

We will be available for media enquiries, business events, and TV advertising and everything in between.

Meet Matthew, callsign "Mad Dog"

Hi there, I am the owner of VH-ZYK and your pilot. I have operated as both a domestic and International airline pilot operating the Boeing 777-300ER, Airbus A320 and the Boeing 737. I have extensive experience operating in Africa as a contract pilot, with ops in Equatorial Guinea, South Africa and the Democratic Republic of Congo. I am also RAAF trained on the CT4B (ADFBFTS) and PC9A (2FTS). I spent 2010-2013 as a Private Military Contractor pilot in Afghanistan for ISAF/NATO (non Article-5). I had the privilege of working with Australian, US and Afghan Forces. My previous warbird experience includes Yak-52, Polish Iskra TS-11, Polish Mig-15, and DC-3C-TP. In my spare time I also like to fly R22 helicopters. So relax you're in good hands.

Russian Mig 21 Schebergan 25 May 2011.JPG

WHERE IS THE PC9 BASED?

Initially all flights will be conducted out of Taree and Port Macquarie airports, in regional NSW.

Upon booking you will receive details on what to expect, and how to prepare for your flight. At this stage we are anticipating 20 min flights at a rate of $2000-$2500 per flight, but this is to be advised closer to operations commencement.

SAFETY WARNING

PERSONS FLY IN THIS AIRCRAFT AT THEIR OWN RISK. THIS AIRCRAFT WAS NOT DESIGNED FOR AIR TRANSPORT OPERATIONS AND IS NOT REQUIRED TO BE OPERATED TO THE SAME SAFETY STANDARDS AS AN AIRCRAFT USED FOR AIR TRANSPORT OPERATIONS

FAQ

1 / Are the ejection seats "Live / Hot"

No, we have deactivated or "cold" ejection seats. The Martin Baker MK11s have no CADS or pyrotechnic charges. We are required to open the canopy and physically egress the aircraft in a ground emergency. And airborne we do not have the luxury of ejection.

2 / Who maintains the PC9

The aircraft has an annual inspection every 12 months or every 150 hours, whichever occurs first. The inspection and mechanical repairs etc are conducted by Pays Air Service. Pays Air Service are experts in Pratt and Whitney PT6 engines and airframes. The engine is maintained in accordance with Pratt and Whitney Service Bulletins.

3 / Why are the flights so expensive

The Pilatus PC-9A(T) is currently valued at between $2 - $4 million AUD. The annual insurance and public liability insurance is over $40,000 AUD. The aircraft engine wash rig, towbar and tug cost approximately $50,000 AUD. I am also required to pay monthly hangarage and landing fees. Also the aircraft annual inspection can cost up to $30,000 AUD. The aviation fuel costs approximately $2.70 per litre (20 Jan 2024), and the aircraft can burn up to 315 litres per hour. Finally as an owner of a PT6, the engine is shortly due for overhaul. The overhaul at Standard Aero at Brisbane Airport will cost approximately $600,000 USD (Yes that's USD). And if I require a new engine (PT6A-62), the cost is in excess of $2 - $3 million AUD. So as you can imagine, this is not a cheap aircraft to own or operate.