Making the Pilatus PC-24 even more »nice«

NBAA-BACE 2023 will be the place where Lufthansa Technik AG and Pilatus Aircraft will unveil their strategic cooperation regarding a cabin management system for the Pilatus PC-24 Super Versatile Jet. For this purpose, the Original Equipment & Special Aircraft Services segment of Lufthansa Technik has adapted its renowned »nice« (networked integrated cabin equipment) specifically for the popular jet aircraft type of the venerable Swiss manufacturer.

In the PC-24, the system is called “integrated Cabin Management System 4.0” (iCMS 4.0) and features a 10" touch screen controller with 3D moving map, USB ports, media storage server and four high fidelity cabin speakers with optional sub-woofer, HDMI input, and mood lighting. In the past, such systems have only been installed in mid-size and large business jets - mainly due to the number of their components, weight, performance, and associated costs. For its new partner Pilatus, Lufthansa Technik is therefore introducing an Ethernet-based »nice« in which the entire system is housed as a line-replaceable unit in a compact enclosure.

The resulting iCMS 4.0, which builds on Lufthansa Technik enormous experience in providing line-fit systems to heavy business jet platforms, features four Ethernet ports, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. The interface to the passengers is provided by the touch-sensitive surface already known from existing »nice« systems, which allows, for example, navigating through the various entertainment options. This allows passengers to seamlessly manage comfort functions as well as audio and video content, either via the built-in 10” touch screen or from their personal electronic devices. In addition, the new system provides a fully digital platform that allows the crew to personalize the PC-24's cabin for the passengers in advance of each flight.

Ignaz Gretener, Vice President of Pilatus' Business Aviation unit, commented: “Pilatus is proud to introduce the iCMS 4.0 inflight entertainment system in collaboration with Lufthansa Technik. Our modified system, more compact and efficient than ever before, features a fully customized interface tailored to Pilatus’ discerning customers. This innovation not only enhances the onboard experience but also reflects our commitment to pushing the boundaries of aviation technology.”

Andrew Muirhead, Vice President OEM and Engineering Services and Head of the Original Equipment & Special Aircraft Services segment at Lufthansa Technik, said: “We are honored to be part of this remarkable aircraft and to offer Pilatus service enhancements that will elevate the PC-24 passenger experience to an even higher level. We are proud of our technical achievements in integrating so much functionality into such a compact unit – once again a demonstration of the innovative power of our team. Together with our valued new partner Pilatus, we are now making the PC-24 Super Versatile Jet even more versatile.”

A first PC-24 equipped with the new iCMS 4.0 will be presented in the static display (AD_32) at NBAA-BACE 2023. In addition, experts will be available at the Pilatus (N1808) and Lufthansa Technik (C12613) booths to provide more information.

Technical data and functionality of the »nice«-based iCMS 4.0:

• Wi-Fi 802.11N/AC/AX capable of simultaneous 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz
• Bluetooth transceiver for audio sink or source
• Multicast streaming
• 6-channel digital amplifier, which can include optional subwoofer
• Controls via Ethernet, ARINC 429, RS485/422/232, discrete and relays
• 1 terabyte of storage space for personal AVOD (audio/video on demand)
• »niceview« mobile moving map
• »nice« wireless app control

Image copyright: Pilatus Aircraft Ltd.