N278JM Aircraft Overview
Performance Profile
The Pilatus PC-12 delivers 285-knot performance across 1,845 NM. N278JM is powered by 1x Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-67P at 1,200 SHP. An operating ceiling of 30,000 feet keeps the aircraft above most weather while maintaining fuel efficiency.
Mission Profile
Turboprops serve a distinct niche: missions under 1,000 nautical miles where operating cost per seat-mile matters more than block speed. N278JM's Pilatus PC-12 carries 9 passengers at 16.9 ft by 5.0 ft by 4.8 ft.
Charter Authorization
N278JM's operator holds Part 135 authorization covering domestic charter. The Pilatus PC-12's short-field capability and low hourly rate make it ideal for regional corporate travel.
Insider Note
In the pre-owned market, well-maintained Pilatus PC-12 airframes hold their value because demand for turboprop operations remains constant. N278JM's 1367 build year and active Part 135 status indicate revenue-service maintenance standards.
Charter & Acquisition Briefing
Registration N278JM is a 2012 helicopter held by JLM AVIATION LLC. This briefing covers the charter economics and operational context for this rotorcraft.
Fleet Position
Over 10,000 helicopters are on active U.S. registrations. FAA data shows N278JM based in WINTHROP, ME. The U.S. helicopter fleet serves EMS, offshore oil and gas, law enforcement, utility, VIP transport, and flight training. Maintenance infrastructure is extensive, with turbine helicopter service available at most major airports.
Charter Availability
N278JM is Part 135 charter authorized. Helicopter charter rates range from $1,500 to $8,000 per flight hour depending on type and configuration. VIP helicopter charter serves urban transfers (Manhattan to JFK in 8 minutes), resort access, and event transportation where ground travel times exceed 2 hours.
Market Position
A 2012 production date places N278JM in the current generation with FADEC engines, glass cockpit avionics, and modern safety systems. Pre-owned values sit at $2M to $15M. Current-generation helicopters offer the latest in crash survivability, automation, and operational efficiency.
Acquiring a current-generation helicopter provides access to the latest autorotation aids, health and usage monitoring systems (HUMS), and terrain awareness. These systems reduce accident rates and insurance premiums while improving dispatch reliability.
Mission Profile
Helicopters serve point-to-point missions between 10 and 300 nautical miles. Manhattan heliport to Teterboro Airport in 8 minutes. Downtown Los Angeles to Van Nuys in 12 minutes. Resort to resort along coastlines with no airport required. The helicopter eliminates ground transfer time entirely.
When to Choose Something Else
Pass on helicopters if noise sensitivity matters. Helicopters produce significantly more noise than fixed-wing aircraft, and many communities restrict helicopter operations with curfews and flight path limitations. Verify local helicopter restrictions before committing to regular operations.
Ownership & Operations
Aircraft management companies handle the operational complexity of jet ownership. They provide crew, maintenance tracking, regulatory compliance, insurance, and hangar coordination. Management fees run $8,000 to $25,000 per month depending on aircraft size. For owners who fly 100 to 300 hours annually, professional management reduces risk and administrative burden while maintaining access to Part 135 charter revenue.
Pre-Purchase Considerations
Engine program enrollment significantly affects aircraft value and operating economics. Programs like Rolls-Royce CorporateCare, Pratt & Whitney Eagle Service Plan, and Honeywell MSP spread major engine costs into predictable hourly rates. Aircraft enrolled in these programs command 10 to 20% higher resale values than non-enrolled equivalents because buyers avoid the risk of unbudgeted engine overhauls.
Charter Market Context
The Jet Finder sources charter aircraft from a network of vetted Part 135 operators. We do not own aircraft. This broker model ensures clients see competitive options across multiple operators rather than being limited to a single fleet. Pricing transparency comes from comparing 3 to 5 operator quotes on every request. The client sees all options and chooses based on aircraft, price, and operator quality.
N278JM Aircraft Intelligence
Cross-referenced from FAA Registry, Part 135 operator database, and live ADS-B telemetry.
Inquire About N278JM
This aircraft operates under an active FAA Part 135 certificate with MAINE INSTRUMENT FLIGHT, making it legally authorized for on-demand charter. Contact us to check current availability and book your flight.
Contact UsDetailed Specifications
Aircraft Identity
| Registration | N278JM |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD |
| FAA Model | PC-12/47E |
| Serial Number | 1367 |
| Year | 2012 |
| Aircraft Type | Fixed wing single engine |
| Category | Turboprop |
| Part 135 Operator | MAINE INSTRUMENT FLIGHT |
| Owner (FAA) | JLM AVIATION LLC |
| Location | WINTHROP, ME |
Performance & Capabilities
| Engines | 1x Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-67P |
|---|---|
| Cruise Speed | 285 ktas (LRC: 260 kts) |
| Approximate Range | 1,845 NM |
| Passengers | Up to 9 |
| Registration Status | Valid (FAA) |
| Charter Status | Part 135 Authorized |
| D085 Listing | Active |
Frequently Asked Questions About N278JM
16 questions answered about this aircraft and the Pilatus PC-12 NGX
N278JM is a 2012 Pilatus PC-12 NGX registered in the United States. It carries serial number 1367 and is classified as a turboprop in the private aviation market. The aircraft has maintained continuous airworthiness for 13 years.
N278JM is a Pilatus PC-12 NGX. This model serves the turboprop segment of the business aviation market. Pilatus has a well-established support network for this airframe.
N278JM is registered to JLM AVIATION LLC according to FAA records. The registrant is based in Winthrop, ME. Registration data is sourced from the FAA Aircraft Registry and may not reflect recent ownership transfers.
The Pilatus PC-12 was produced from 1994-present. The type was succeeded by the PC-12 NGX. This specific aircraft (N278JM) was manufactured in 2012.
The manufacturer serial number is 1367.
N278JM is registered in WINTHROP, ME.
Yes. N278JM holds an active Part 135 certificate under MAINE INSTRUMENT FLIGHT, meaning it is legally authorized for on-demand charter operations. Contact The Jet Finder to check current availability.
N278JM is operated under the Part 135 certificate held by MAINE INSTRUMENT FLIGHT.
N278JM is a fixed wing single engine classified as a Turboprop.
The Pilatus PC-12 has a maximum cruise speed of 285 knots. Long-range cruise is 260 kts. Maximum operating Mach number is N/A.
The Pilatus PC-12 NGX has an approximate range of 1,845 nautical miles. This translates to nonstop coverage of coast-to-coast routes such as New York to Los Angeles, or Miami to Seattle. At a cruise speed of approximately 285 knots, total block times remain competitive for the category.
The Pilatus PC-12 seats up to 9 passengers in a typical charter configuration. The cabin measures 16.9 ft long, 5.0 ft wide, and 4.8 ft tall. The cabin accommodates productive work or rest on flights of typical duration.
N278JM maintains a valid registration status with the FAA and is listed on the D085 Part 135 Aircraft Listing.
N278JM is listed on the FAA D085 Part 135 database under MAINE INSTRUMENT FLIGHT. This confirms the aircraft is authorized for on-demand charter. Availability depends on the operator's schedule and positioning. Contact The Jet Finder to check current availability for this specific aircraft or similar models.
Contact The Jet Finder for acquisition inquiries regarding N278JM. Our advisory team handles both on-market and off-market transactions.
You can verify N278JM directly on the FAA Aircraft Registry.
From Your First Mission to Your Final Acquisition
Contact us about charter availability or acquisition. If this aircraft does not suit your needs, we have access to more than 15,000 private aircraft worldwide.