Swiss Government takes delivery of new PC24 business jet

The Swiss government has taken delivery of a new Pilatus PC-24 business jet, which will be used primarily for European travel.

The aircraft was ordered in 2014 and delivered February 18, 2019.

Painted in a white and gray livery, with a signature Swiss cross on the tail fin and the name of its operator – the Swiss Air Force.

Ueli Maurer, president of the Swiss Confederation, took delivery of the PC-24 at a handover ceremony in Berne.

Oscar J Schwenk, chairman at Pilatus: “I’m delighted the Swiss government opted for a Swiss product and will travel aboard the PC-24 – the new ‘Swiss Air Force One”.

“This choice sends a very important signal for our brand-new business jet. I’m confident that other governments will adopt the PC-24 once they see the unrivalled opportunities and flexibility it offers.”

The PC24 features a flat-floor cabin with space for eight passengers plus crew and luggage, a large cargo door. The PC24 business jet also has the ability to use very short runways, along with unpaved airstrips; such as grass or dirt making it a very versatile aircraft.

The business jet has a range of 2,000 nautical miles (3,704km) and flies at 440kts (815kph).