French Navy to become first European military operator of Pilatus PC-24 Super Versatile Jet

By Defence Industry Europe

The French Navy will become the first European military force to operate the PC-24 Super Versatile Jet, following a lease agreement managed by Jet Aviation France. The aircraft will be procured from Pilatus, with the first of three PC-24s scheduled for delivery in February 2026.
Photo: Pilatus Aircraft.

The French Navy will become the first European military force to operate the PC-24 Super Versatile Jet, following a lease agreement managed by Jet Aviation France. The aircraft will be procured from Pilatus, with the first of three PC-24s scheduled for delivery in February 2026.

 

The PC-24 is designed for high operational flexibility, offering single-pilot certification, a standard cargo door, and approval for unpaved runway use. These features make it suitable for government tasks such as IFR pilot training, transport, and liaison operations.

Pilatus will support the fleet with its CrystalCare programme, ensuring aircraft availability and streamlined maintenance. The PC-24’s integration into military service reflects its adaptability and aligns with Pilatus Government Aviation’s focus on mission-ready solutions for state customers.

 

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“It has been a privilege to work together with the Direction de la Maintenance Aéronautique (DMAé) and Pilatus on the selection and acquisition of the new fleet of PC-24s for the French Navy,” says Jeremie Caillet, Jet Aviation’s president. “With over 55 years of maintenance experience, including over 35 years working with governmental fleets, we are committed to providing our customers with solutions that are specifically tailored to meet their individual mission needs. We are delighted to build on our long-standing relationship with Pilatus to propose an acquisition and sustainment program that meets the requirements of the French Navy in terms of both the aircraft and ongoing maintenance and preparation of the fleet.”

 

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“We are delighted to see the PC-24 selected for the French Navy’s operational needs, highlighting its unique capabilities as a flexible and reliable platform for government missions. Our collaboration with Jet Aviation has been exemplary and instrumental in achieving this success, and we look forward to the first delivery in a few months,” said Ioannis Papachristofilou, Vice President Government Aviation at Pilatus.

The latest PC-24 version includes an improved range and payload, while offering a larger cabin than business jets costing up to twice as much. It also features the Pilatus Advanced Cockpit Environment (ACE), a smart cockpit system approved for single-pilot use.

 

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