Tell us about you.
Ask about availability and share what interests you about the PC-9 experience.
PC-9 ADVENTURE FLIGHTS / SCONE, NSW
FEEL EVERY
SECOND.
A real warbird. A different perspective.
An experience to look forward to.
01 / THE AIRCRAFT
EX-RAAF.
EXTRAORDINARY.
The Pilatus PC-9A served as an advanced trainer with the Royal Australian Air Force. Today, it sits at the heart of Danger Close Aviation.
From the tandem cockpit to the unmistakable sound of its turboprop, this is an aircraft with character. Meet A23-018 in its current grey finish and shark-mouth markings.
THE VIEW CHANGES EVERYTHING.
STRAP INTO THE PC-9A.
FEEL THE EXTRAORDINARY.
02 / YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE
START WITH
A CONVERSATION.
Get the details.
The team can explain participation requirements, flight options and what to expect before you make plans.
Plan your visit.
Our base is the Hunter Warbirds Hangar at Scone Airport in regional New South Wales.
THE EXPERIENCE / PRICING
WHAT IS
THE COST?
25-MINUTE PC-9 FLIGHT
$3,000 AUD
Upon booking, you will receive details on what to expect and how to prepare for your flight.
It’s not cheap, but the operating costs of the PT6A-62 turboprop are substantial.
Enquire about flights ↗
03 / MEET THE FOUNDER
CALLSIGN:
MAD DOG.
Meet, callsign “Mad Dog”
Hi there, I am the founder of Danger Close Aviation. I have operated as both a domestic and international airline pilot operating the Boeing 777-300ER, Airbus A320 and the Boeing 737.
Read more about MatthewRead less
With ferry experience of Hawker and Learjet business jets. 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 2010–2012 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, Mig-15UTI, and countless other airframes. I am also a flying instructor and helicopter pilot. So relax you're in good hands.
04 / BEFORE YOU FLY
GOOD QUESTIONS.
CLEAR ANSWERS.
Can I book a flight now?
Yes. We are operational. Contact Matthew to arrange your flight and confirm available dates.
Where are you based?
Hunter Warbirds Hangar, Walter Pye Avenue, Scone, NSW 2337.
What does a flight cost?
A 25-minute flight costs $3,000 AUD. Upon booking, you will receive details on what to expect and how to prepare. The price reflects the substantial operating costs of the PT6A-62 turboprop.
What should I know about participation?
The team will discuss suitability, safety information and preparation with you before a booking is confirmed.
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.
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 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.
Why are the flights so expensive?
The Pilatus PC-9A(T) is currently valued at between $1.5–$2.5 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 airport and landing fees. The aircraft annual inspection can cost upwards of $30,000 AUD.
The aviation fuel costs approximately $2.70 per litre (20 January 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). 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.
STRATEGIC ALLIANCES
OUR PARTNERS.
Pays Air Service ↗
Pilatus ↗
Pratt & Whitney ↗
Royal Australian Air Force ↗
Australian Warbirds Limited ↗YOUR NEXT CHAPTER STARTS HERE.
LET’S GET
YOU CLOSER.
Contact Matthew and the Danger Close team about adventure flights.
Enquire by email ↗info@dangercloseaviation.com