Cassis: Federal Jet Use for Delegate Meeting

The Swiss Foreign Minister’s Jet Trip: A Breakdown

(geneva, February 3, 2026) – Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis used the Federal Council jet for a roundtrip from Bern to Geneva and then to Ticino last Saturday, incurring a cost of approximately 11,000 francs, according to reporting by “20 minutes.” The flight was undertaken for Cassis to deliver a speech at the FDP delegates’ meeting in Geneva, where he discussed current geopolitical risks facing democratic states.

The trip raises questions about the cost and environmental impact of government travel, even as officials defend its efficiency.

Did you know? – the Federal Council jet is primarily intended for international travel, though exceptions are made for domestic use when deemed necessary by officials.

Cassis traveled by jet rather than by train or Federal Council limousine, as first reported by “20 minutes.” After the FDP meeting, he continued by jet to his home in Ticino, with the aircraft returning to Bern from Lugano-Agno airport at the end of the day. The total flight time for the detour to Geneva was 1.5 hours, costing 7,200 francs per hour, or 10,800 francs, according to the defense Department. This figure does not include waiting time costs.

Cassis’s frequent Flights

The Foreign Ministry stated to “20 Minutes” that flights within Switzerland are the exception, with the Federal Council typically traveling by car or train. Aircraft are used only when these options are not feasible due to scheduling or weather conditions. Officials maintain that the jet saves time on routes like Bern-Geneva-Lugano.

A report from last year indicated that Cassis flew more than any other member of the Federal Council in 2024, accumulating approximately 155 hours in the air.

Pro tip – When evaluating government spending, consider not only the direct cost but also the possibility cost – what else could those funds have been used for?

Calls to Limit Government flights

There have been previous efforts to restrict domestic flights for the Federal Council. In 2019, SP National Councilor Samira Marti proposed a ban on all domestic flights, arguing they are unneeded in a small country and contribute to high carbon emissions. A petition from 2025, signed by 4,815 people, also called for a ban on short-haul flights for the Federal Council, stating they should “set a good example” by utilizing train travel for shorter journeys.

Why It Matters

The use of the Federal Council jet for relatively short domestic trips is likely to fuel debate over government spending and environmental responsibility. While officials defend the use of the jet as a time-saving measure, critics argue that it sends the wrong message at a time when citizens are being asked to reduce their carbon footprint. The incident highlights the ongoing tension between the demands of official duties and the need for fiscal prudence and environmental sustainability.

Why did Cassis take the jet? He used it to attend the FDP delegates’ meeting in Geneva and then travel to his home in Ticino, citing efficiency despite choice options.

Who is involved? Ignazio Cassis (Swiss Foreign Minister), the Federal Council, “20 minutes” (news outlet), Samira Marti (National Councilor), and Swiss taxpayers.

What happened? Cassis took a Federal Council jet for a domestic trip costing approximately 11,000 francs, sparking debate about government spending and environmental impact.

How did it end? The incident sparked public and political debate, with calls for restrictions on government flights continuing. There is no immediate resolution reported; the issue remains open for discussion and potential policy changes.

Reader question – Do you think government officials should be held to a higher standard regarding environmental impact than private citizens? What factors should be considered?