Pratt & Whitney Canada (Stand C414) has launched PT6 Nation.com, a new microsite for operators and aficionados of the legendary PT6 turbine engine and its many variants, which currently number 68.

Since 1964 more than 40,000 PT6s turboprop engines have been delivered, notching up 325 million flight hours, and today around 23,000 engines are in use on 14,000 fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft. As the engine of choice for many helicopters, utility aircraft and trainers, it is no surprise that the PT6 is involved in many unusual air operations, and it has figured in many remarkable aviation stories.

Using social media such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube, PT6Nation provides a forum for those with an interest in the PT6 to discuss and share their experiences through stories, photos and video. It also provides an informal means for P&WC to connect with the many PT6 users and maintainers around the world, and to extend brand awareness beyond that community.

One of the latest stories on the Web site (posted by Ryan Densham) links to a YouTube video showing three skydivers jumping out of a PT6A-powered de Havilland Twin Otter and maneuvering to a Pilatus Porter, also appropriately powered by the PT6A, which is in a vertical descent. Fans of James Bond may recall 007 executing a similar skydive to a Pilatus Porter in the 1995 film "Goldeneye." Actor Pierce Brosnan played Bond, but an uncredited stunt double named B. J. Worth performed the skydive.