The Swiss government has taken delivery of the Pilatus PC-24 it ordered in 2014. Ueli Maurer, president of the Swiss Confederation, took delivery of the PC-24 at a recent handover ceremony held in Berne.

The aircraft replaces a business jet supplied by a North American manufacturer and will be operated by the Swiss Air Force for government flights. It has a white-grey livery with a Swiss cross on the tail fin with the words 'Swiss Air Force'. Its serial number is 121, indicating that it is the 21st PC-24 to come off the production line.

“I'm delighted the Swiss government opted for our product and will travel aboard the PC-24,” comments Pilatus chairman Oscar J. Schwenk. “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 which it offers.”

The PC-24 has a flat floor cabin and can accommodate up to eight passengers plus crew and luggage. In addition to its spacious cabin and speed, government passengers will also benefit from a large cargo door and the jet's ability to use short runways. It will primarily be used for travel within Europe and has a range of 2,000 nm, flying at a speed of 440 kts.