When the Swiss Confederation decides to modernize its aviation fleet, the goal is to enhance efficiency, reliability, and comfort. The acquisition of a Bombardier Global 7500, valued at around 103 million Swiss francs, marks a major milestone: this ultra-long-range business jet replaces the older Citation Excel 560XL and introduces a range of notable innovations and improvements. Here’s an overview, in ten points, of what makes this Bombardier flagship so remarkable.

1. Extended Range for Global Missions

The Citation Excel 560XL covered about 3,700 km, ideal for regional or medium-haul flights. In contrast, the Global 7500 boasts a range exceeding 14,000 km, allowing non-stop travel from Switzerland to destinations like Hong Kong or Los Angeles. This exceptional range opens up new possibilities for diplomatic, humanitarian, or commercial negotiations on a global scale—without time lost on intermediate stops.

2. A Vast Cabin Space

Stretching nearly 31.7 meters in length, the Global 7500 offers a spacious cabin divided into four distinct zones: a conference room, a lounge area, a dining space, and a private suite with a real bed. The Citation Excel 560XL was limited to a single configuration for 7 to 9 passengers in a much smaller area. Now, delegation members can work, rest, and even sleep comfortably without impeding one another’s space.

3. High-Level Technical Performance

The Global 7500 is powered by two General Electric Passport engines, designed to cruise at speeds close to Mach 0.90 (about 1,110 km/h). This power not only saves time on long routes, but also delivers strong performance on shorter or more demanding runways. The older Citation Excel 560XL had less powerful engines and was never intended for such extensive intercontinental flights.

4. State-of-the-Art Cockpit

The Global 7500 features the Bombardier Vision avionics suite, developed in partnership with industry-leading firms. This modern cockpit includes large touchscreen displays (typically four main screens of 15.1 inches each), a Heads-Up Display (HUD) combining Enhanced Vision System (EVS) and Synthetic Vision System (SVS), as well as an advanced flight management system. Pilots benefit from enhanced visibility and greater support, improving both safety and operational efficiency. The Citation Excel 560XL, while reliable, relies on a more basic avionics system that often requires additional updates to meet current standards.

5. A Cabin Designed for Well-Being

Bombardier has focused on passenger comfort by introducing exclusive “Nuage” seats, offering ergonomic support and reclining positions that reduce fatigue. The cabin pressurization system is optimized to replicate a lower altitude, enhancing overall well-being during long-haul flights. Large windows let in ample natural light, creating a relaxing and spacious atmosphere. While the older Citation Excel 560XL provided decent comfort for shorter flights, it was less suited to extended journeys.

6. High-Level Connectivity and Entertainment

The Global 7500 offers high-speed Wi-Fi, HD screens, and the ability to hold video conferences on board. Passengers can work online, check emails, or enjoy top-tier multimedia content. The Citation Excel 560XL, being older, had more basic connectivity—suitable for regional flights but limited when it came to ultra-long-distance travel.

7. Four Distinct Cabin Zones

The aircraft stands out thanks to its four separate areas:

• A “conference room” for collaborative work,
• A comfortable lounge for conversations or relaxation,
• A dining section for sharing meals,
• A private suite offering a true bedroom-like setup.

This space allocation makes very long flights not only bearable but also productive and restful. The smaller Citation Excel 560XL offered a single, more limited cabin layout.

8. Streamlined Maintenance

Bombardier provides worldwide technical support and tailored maintenance programs that reduce aircraft downtime. Diagnostic tools are more precise, and spare parts are easier to source in major hubs. Although older aircraft like the Citation Excel 560XL are still reliable, they tend to require more frequent maintenance and can face longer delays due to harder-to-find parts.

9. A Strategic Asset for the Confederation

Opting for the Global 7500 at around 103 million Swiss francs underscores the Confederation’s commitment to an aircraft that meets exacting governmental and diplomatic requirements: long-haul flights, large delegations, urgent overseas deployments, and more. This ability to project internationally with speed and comfort is crucial for maintaining an effective diplomatic presence.

10. Bombardier’s Most Advanced Model Today

Although Bombardier has announced the future Global 8000, the Global 7500 remains, to date, its most fully realized model, featuring the latest innovations in performance, range, and comfort. It’s an undeniable benchmark in the ultra-long-range business jet sector and represents a significant generational leap from the Citation Excel 560XL.

Conclusion

Switching from the Citation Excel 560XL to the Bombardier Global 7500 is a major qualitative and strategic leap for the Swiss Confederation’s fleet. With a range exceeding 14,000 km, a four-zone cabin layout, General Electric Passport engines, and the Bombardier Vision avionics suite, the aircraft delivers a unique combination of performance and comfort. Beyond the financial investment, this strategic choice enables Switzerland to carry out official missions under the best possible conditions.

For business travelers and discerning individuals looking to experience this aviation marvel, Linkinjet also offers the Global 7500 for charter services. It’s an ideal solution for enjoying an authentic “ultra-long-range” aircraft and traveling anywhere in the world in exceptional comfort.