French Navy to Lease Pilatus PC-24 Jets

Jet Aviation will lease three Pilatus PC-24 light jets to the French Navy, a deal announced October 31, 2025 that includes full maintenance and sustainment support.

The Pilatus PC-24 will serve liaison and training roles for France’s naval aviation arm, expanding operational flexibility without an immediate purchase by the French Navy. Jet Aviation acquired the three PC-24s and will provide end-to-end support under the lease arrangement.

Pilatus PC-24: why the type fits naval liaison

The Pilatus PC-24 is a twin-engine light jet known for short-field performance and flexible cabin layouts. The three aircraft are intended to replace older liaison platforms and to support diverse mission profiles — from personnel transfers to pilot training — though the French Navy has not disclosed specific unit codes or fleet markings.

  • Pilatus PC-24 advantages: short-field performance, cabin flexibility and fast cruise for liaison and training missions.

Details on delivery schedules and contract value were not released. Jet Aviation’s package explicitly includes maintenance and sustainment support, which will lower the logistical burden on the French Navy while the aircraft are on lease.

Watch for further announcements from both Jet Aviation and the French Navy for delivery dates, registration details, and initial basing. The arrangement highlights a growing trend of militaries using commercial leasing and support packages to fill capability gaps quickly and cost-effectively.

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