The Pilatus P.C.7 Mk II "Astra" is a single engine turboprop, all metal, low-wing, two-seat training aircraft. The aircraft is equipped with a stepped cockpit and Martin Baker CH 11 A ejection seats. It is powered by a Pratt and Whitney P.T. 6-25C, an up rated version of the P.W. 6A-25A as used in the Pilatus P.C. 7. Three Pilatus P.C. 7s were operated by the SAAF, having inherited them from the BOP Air Wing, but these were exchanged for a Pilatus P.C. 12 in a deal with the parent company.

The choice of this aircraft, almost a hybrid between a P.C. 7 and a P.C. 9, was due to the fact that the SAAF could not afford a three-tier training system (screening, basic and advanced). Funding restrictions forced the SAAF to use a two-tier training system (basic and advanced). The SAAF believes this aircraft is well suited for its training requirements.

Externally the Astra resembles the Pilatus P.C. 9 but there are several differences as detailed later. Both the P.C. 7 and P.C. 9 are available from Aeroclub. The P.C. 9 is closest to the Astra and it is this model that is used for the conversion later in this article.