The new PC-24 government jet will be primarily used for travel within Europe. Credit: © Pilatus Aircraft Ltd.

The Switzerland Government has received the Pilatus PC-24 business jet designed to transport government officials during a handover ceremony held in the capital Berne.

Manufactured by Pilatus Aircraft, the PC-24 jet will replace the government’s existing Cessna Citation XLS.

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Switzerland placed the order for the aircraft in 2014. To be operated by the Swiss Air Force for the government, the PC-24 ‘Super Versatile’ Jet features a modern, white-grey livery with a Swiss cross on the tail fin.

The new government jet will operate with serial number 121 and registration T-786. Primarily meant for travel within Europe, PC-24 has a range of 2,000nm and can reach speeds of 440k.

“Swiss Federal Councillors can save time travelling as the aircraft comes with a cargo door fitted as standard and has the ability to use very short runways.”

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

“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 aircraft can accommodate eight passengers in addition to crew and luggage.

Swiss Federal Councillors can save time travelling as the aircraft comes with a cargo door fitted as standard and has the ability to use very short runways with a take-off distance of 2,930ft.

Furthermore, the jet is designed to operate on unpaved runways. With a maximum payload of 2,500lb, it can reach an altitude of 45,000ft.