Hands on with the FMS Pilatus PC-21 | So Smooth!

The FMS Pilatus PC-21 looks like a shark and flies like a trainer. That's the dream, right?

It's not often you get a plane that flies hands off from the moment you get it in the air for the first time. The Pilatus PC-21 from FMS simply delivers and delivers with every battery you fly. I got the opportunity to test fly this aircraft a great deal whilst I was at Flite Fest Ohio, so here are my thoughts in-depth. Before jumping into that and the video, however, let me start by saying that this is probably the best RC airplane I've ever flown.

It's not that fast

The most surprising thing about the Pilatus is that it isn't a lightning bolt by any means. That's not to say it doesn't have some power though. The aircraft can zoom climb up to altitude in no time and is capable of some really nice looking aerobatics. It also has a fantastic presence in the air and gets heads turning. What I do mean, though, is the Pilatus' performance doesn't match it's exterior. You'd think from its stance on the ground to it's slightly swept and stubby wings that the plane would behave like a bullet. Thankfully, the lack of this attribute only adds to the experience.

It handles like a trainer

As I flew the aircraft around, it was immediately apparent how locked in the Pilatus felt. You can fly the thing hands off with just the smallest amount of trimming needed. Adding flaps wasn't a problem, although there was a limited amount of ballooning that you have to account for. If you've slowed down enough to be pulling back on the stick, you shouldn't notice this effect. The gear came down every time without a hitch, and that's just it - this plane gives you confidence. You needn't worry about tip stalling or strange torquing tendencies because the Pilatus ain't got none.

You're going to need a smooth airstrip!

The one main thing that had me slightly worried when taking off and landing for the first time was the prop clearance. There's hardly any. The Pilatus absolutely needs a smooth runway or shortly trimmed grass stip to operate from. Even the textile runway of Flite Fest wasn't enough as the slightly bumpy bits had the prop striking the ground. Thankfully, there was a paved slab runway meaning I could take off in confidence. Still, you're going to need a few extra five-bladed props when you get a Pilatus of your own, just in case you have a bumpy landing.

Flying like you stole it

The Pilatus will make you a better pilot, there's no denying that. As it tracks like it's on rails, it will give you the freedom to push your own comfort zone to the limit. You don't have to think about really flying the airplane, rather the plane handles that for you. It's extremely well designed. As mentioned, aerobatics are a breeze. The Pilatus would be a great intermediate plane, maybe even a second four-channel if you have space and an appropriate takeoff strip.