Switzerland Acquires New Government Global 7500 Jet
Switzerland has taken delivery of a new Bombardier Global 7500 as its state aircraft, replacing a 22.3-year-old Citation Excel. The aircraft, registered as T-787 (msn 70208), was handed over by Bombardier on December 17, 2024, and arrived in Payerne two days later after departing Montréal Trudeau.
Operated by the Federal Air Transport Service (LTDB), a division of the Swiss Air Force, the Global 7500 will serve federal government, departmental, and military needs. Approved for purchase by the Swiss Federal Council in 2023, the aircraft cost CHF103 million (USD109 million). It is set to enter service in early 2025 and will initially be based in Payerne before relocating to Bern in 2027.
Planned modifications, including the installation of a self-defense system, are scheduled for the summer and autumn of 2025, with completion expected by year-end. During this transition, the Citation Excel will remain operational. The LTDB also operates a Falcon 900EX, but its replacement has been delayed due to budget constraints.
Beyond its government fleet, the Swiss Air Force manages two Challenger 604s for air ambulance and transportation duties. Previously, it retired two Learjet 35As in 2006 and sold a Pilatus PC-24, acquired in 2019, in 2022.
The addition of the Global 7500 enhances Switzerland’s aviation capabilities, reflecting a commitment to modernizing its fleet while balancing operational needs and fiscal responsibility.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com