The Swiss Air Force will retire its famed Patrouille Suisse aerobatics team by 2027 as part of cost-cutting and emissions-reduction measures, following parliament’s decision to phase out the F-5 “Tiger” jets they fly. The team, a national symbol for over 60 years, will be replaced by the lesser-known PC-7 team, which operates Pilatus PC-7 turboprop aircraft that are cheaper to run and produce fewer emissions.
Military officials acknowledged the cultural and symbolic weight of Patrouille Suisse, which has long served as a showcase of Swiss aviation. However, they stressed the need to maintain an aerobatic presence, with the PC-7 team—founded in 1989 and staffed by fighter jet pilots—set to become the new face of Swiss air shows.
Though the PC-7 squadron enjoys international recognition, it lacks the public prestige of Patrouille Suisse. Fans will still have a chance to see the jets perform over the next two years, with the 2026 program expected to be published in early 2026. The PC-7 team’s next public performance is scheduled for October 3 in Stäfa, canton Zurich.
This post was published on 22 September 2025 21:34
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