The Dassault Falcon 900EX, an apex in executive aviation, offers luxury and performance for discerning passengers. The next generation of the Falcon 900, this tri-engine aircraft combines state-of-the-art technology with luxurious interiors to create new standards in long-distance business travel. Its capacious cabin (carefully designed to seat up to 14 passengers) achieves a harmony between productivity and rest.
The business jet’s three Honeywell TFE731-60 engines give it outstanding range and efficiency, making the connection between global destinations easy. A modern avionics suite featuring a Honeywell Primus Epic EASy II cockpit with its superior navigation capability and detailed situational awareness for the pilot offers precision guidance to the flight crew.
Brief history and background of Falcon 900EX
The origins of the Falcon 900EX trace back to the initial Falcon 900 trijet that French aerospace company Dassault Aviation launched in the early 1990s as an expansion of their popular Falcon business jet line. Building on the success of earlier Falcon models like the Falcon 50 and Falcon 2000, the Falcon 900 was designed to be a large cabin, long-range jet capable of intercontinental travel.
Over the next decade, Dassault continued enhancing and updating the Falcon 900 platform. Then, in 2005, Dassault introduced the Falcon 900EX variant, which offered major upgrades in terms of range, efficiency, and cabin amenities compared to previous Falcon 900s.
Key improvements found on the Falcon 900EX included more powerful Rolls-Royce engines for increased range and payload capacity, expanded fuel tankage, upgraded flight deck avionics, and a higher maximum takeoff weight. Meanwhile, an enhanced wing design and optimized aerodynamics provided better fuel efficiency. Inside the spacious cabin, luxury features abounded.
By investing in these impactful upgrades, Dassault positioned the 900EX to excel in long-distance, transoceanic routes while still retaining the Falcon series’ hallmarks of flexibility, reliability, and top-end performance. Over 15 years later, the 900EX remains a highlight of Dassault’s large cabin intercontinental business jet offerings today.
Overview of its manufacturer, Dassault Aviation
Dassault Aviation is a French aerospace company that was founded in 1929. The company is best known for its military aircraft, such as the Mirage fighter jet and the Rafale fighter jet. Dassault Aviation also produces a line of business jets, including the Falcon 900EX.
Key features and capabilities of Falcon 900EX
- Range: 4,500 nautical miles (8,334 km)
- Maximum speed: Mach 0.87 (564 mph, 908 km/h)
- Ceiling: 51,000 feet (15,545 m)
- Passenger capacity: 18-24
- Crew: 3
Technical Specifications of Falcon 900EX
- Engine type: 3 x Garrett TFE731-5AR-2C turbofan engines
- Thrust per engine: 14,800 lbf (66 kN)
- Length: 65.54 ft (19.97 m)
- Wingspan: 67.98 ft (20.72 m)
- Height: 21.23 ft (6.47 m)
- Weight: 43,000 lb (19,504 kg)
- Maximum takeoff weight: 65,853 lb (29,863 kg)
Insights into Falcon 900EX
Here are key technical specifications for the Dassault Falcon 900EX business jet:
This sleek trijet aircraft spans 85 feet 10 inches from the cockpit to the tail, with a wingspan of 63 feet 10 inches. Standing 20 feet 5 inches tall with landing gear deployed, the Falcon 900EX cuts an imposing yet nimble figure on the tarmac. Its empty weight is roughly 31,000 pounds, and its maximum takeoff weight for a loaded density altitude operation is 47,600 pounds.
Three Honeywell TFE731-60 turbofan engines mounted at the back, each producing 13,850 pounds of thrust, provide the power. As a result, the Falcon 900EX can now cruise at its maximum speed of Mach 0.88, perform exceptionally well during ascents, and take off from short runways even in scorching weather. For a maximum range of 4,750 nautical miles during an eight-person flight, fuel is carried in the wings and fuselage tanks to power the engines.
The highly advanced digital flight deck onboard the 900EX provides pilots with enhanced situational awareness through a system called Falcon EASy II, which integrates flight planning, navigation, terrain avoidance, weather radar, and other mission-critical instrumentation. Pilots are supported by the latest GPS satellite navigation and triple inertial reference systems for precision guidance during all phases of flight.
This spacious, ultra-quiet interior cabin comes with all the amenities needed for modern entertainment, connectivity, and conferences, including 17-inch monitors, satellite communications, secure networks, and an advanced cabin management system, all for the comfort and productivity of its passengers. Modern business aviation is defined globally by the Falcon 900EX, which seamlessly blends performance, economy, and luxurious comfort from the cockpit to the cabin.
Applications of Falcon 900EX
The Dassault Falcon 900EX is a large-cabin, long-range business jet that has found applications in various sectors due to its impressive range, speed, and luxurious features. Here are some common applications:
1. Business Aviation
Corporate Travel
The advanced generation jet is a premier choice for corporate travel, offering executives a luxurious and efficient means of transportation. With its extended range, executives can conduct intercontinental business trips non-stop, maximizing productivity. The spacious and well-appointed cabin provides a comfortable environment for work and relaxation, enhancing the overall travel experience.
Executive Charter
Executive charter refers to the practice of hiring a private jet, such as the Falcon 900EX, for exclusive use by individuals or companies for specific flights. This service provides a customized and luxurious travel experience, offering flexibility in scheduling and catering to the unique needs of clients seeking a premium and private air travel solution.
2. Government and Military
Government Transport
This involves the utilization of private jets, including models like the Falcon 900EX, for official travel by government officials. This mode of transportation provides a secure and efficient means for high-ranking government representatives to conduct diplomatic missions, attend international conferences, or engage in official visits. The aircraft’s long-range and sophisticated amenities contribute to the convenience and confidentiality required for such travel.
Military Use
In military applications, the Falcon 900EX may be employed for various purposes. Its versatility makes it suitable for transporting personnel, VIPs, or cargo. The aircraft’s range and capabilities could also support missions like reconnaissance, surveillance, and medical evacuation. Its adaptable design allows military forces to leverage the aircraft for diverse operational needs, enhancing mobility and responsiveness.
3. Medevac (Medical Evacuation)
The Falcon 900EX serves a critical role in aeromedical evacuation, swiftly transporting patients over long distances. Its spacious cabin accommodates medical staff and equipment, ensuring prompt and comfortable transfers. With its extended range, the aircraft facilitates efficient medevac missions, delivering essential healthcare and enabling the timely evacuation of patients in need of specialized medical attention. This capability enhances emergency response and medical care accessibility in various regions.
4. Special Missions
This trijet aircraft is versatile for special missions, such as maritime surveillance, reconnaissance, or environmental monitoring. Its adaptable design allows for the integration of mission-specific equipment, making it suitable for a range of tasks beyond standard transportation. The aircraft’s long-range and advanced capabilities enhance its effectiveness in supporting diverse and specialized operations.
5. VIP Transport
The Falcon 900EX excels in VIP transport, providing high-profile individuals with an opulent and secure travel experience. With a lavish interior, personalized amenities, and a long-range capability, it caters to the exclusive needs of VIPs, including celebrities, royalty, and business leaders. This aircraft ensures privacy, comfort, and efficiency for discerning travelers seeking a luxurious and expedient mode of transportation.
6. Aeromedical Evacuation
In aeromedical evacuation, this aircraft plays a crucial role by facilitating the swift and comfortable transport of patients requiring medical attention. With its extended range and adaptable cabin, the aircraft is equipped to support specialized medical missions, ensuring the timely evacuation of individuals in need. This capability enhances emergency medical response and provides a reliable means for aeromedical evacuation operations.
7. Tourism and Luxury Travel
This advanced jet contributes to upscale tourism and luxury travel experiences. Its spacious and luxurious cabin, coupled with long-range capabilities, allows travel operators to offer exclusive and premium air travel packages. Discerning travelers can enjoy a personalized and comfortable journey, exploring destinations with heightened sophistication and convenience, making it a preferred choice for those seeking a lavish travel experience.
These applications showcase the versatility of the Falcon 900EX in meeting the travel and mission requirements of various industries and individuals.
Advantages of Falcon 900EX
Several advantages contribute to its popularity in the business aviation industry:
Long Range
The advanced trijet’s long-range capability allows for non-stop, transcontinental flights, providing unparalleled flexibility for intercontinental travel. This extended range enhances efficiency and convenience for various mission profiles.
High-Speed Performance
The Falcon 900EX exhibits high-speed performance, ensuring swift cruise speeds that reduce travel time. This feature enhances efficiency and offers a time-efficient mode of transportation for passengers on board.
Spacious Cabin
The large and well-designed cabin offers a comfortable and luxurious environment, accommodating passengers with ample space for work or relaxation.
Versatility
It can be configured for various purposes, including executive travel, government transport, medevac missions, and special operations, showcasing its versatility.
Advanced Avionics
Equipped with state-of-the-art avionic systems, the Falcon 900EX ensures precision in navigation, communication, and overall flight management. Advanced avionics contribute to enhanced safety, efficiency, and operational capabilities.
Customization Options
The Falcon 900EX provides extensive customization options for its cabin, allowing owners and operators to tailor the interior layout, furnishings, and amenities to meet specific preferences, ensuring a personalized and luxurious flying experience.
Fuel Efficiency
This advanced jet is designed with fuel efficiency in mind, balancing its size and range with advanced aerodynamics and engine technology. This focus on fuel efficiency contributes to cost-effectiveness and reduced environmental impact.
Quiet Cabin
The Falcon 900EX features a soundproofed cabin, minimizing external noise and providing passengers with a quiet and serene environment. This emphasis on a quiet cabin enhances the overall comfort and travel experience.
Reliability
Dassault’s reputation for engineering excellence extends to the Falcon 900EX, emphasizing reliability. The aircraft’s robust design and manufacturing quality contribute to its dependable performance, ensuring a trustworthy and safe flying experience for operators and passengers alike.
Aerodynamic Design
The Falcon 900EX’s aerodynamic design is optimized for efficiency and performance. This design enhances fuel economy, reduces drag, and contributes to the aircraft’s overall stability and maneuverability, showcasing Dassault’s commitment to advanced engineering principles.
These advantages collectively make the Falcon 900EX a sought-after choice for individuals, corporations, and governments looking for a sophisticated and reliable business jet.
Falcon 900EX vs other similar business jets
Key points on the Dassault Falcon 900EX business jet:
- A range of 4,750 nm enables intercontinental travel, outperforming similar heavy jets like G450 and Global Express.
- Excellent high/hot takeoff performance allows heavy payloads from short runways.
- A roomy 6’3″ stand-up cabin carries up to 19 passengers.
- Top speeds up to Mach 0.88 faster than most competitors.
- A blend of long-range, comfort, and performance makes it ideal for secure and efficient global travel.
- Compares well to ultra-long-range rivals Gulfstream G650ER and Bombardier Global 7500 on some metrics.
- It reaches shorter runways and faster top speeds than the G650ER and Global 7500.
- Cabin dimensions and layouts outshine midsize jets.
- Three engines offer greater redundancy than the G650ER and Global 7500.
- Takes off fully loaded on a shorter runway than competitors.
- Acquisition cost is $5-10 million less than G650ER and Global 7500.
Concluding…
In upscale, contemporary business aviation, the Dassault Falcon 900EX stands for the height of luxury, performance, and capability. With its unparalleled blend of cabin comfort, range, and airfield flexibility, the 900EX stands ready to fulfill the most demanding flight operations worldwide.
If purchasing a 900EX is on your travel itinerary, Propvista’s jet acquisition specialists can use their experience to help you with every step of the process, from financing and transactions to outfitting and maintenance.
For discerning travelers and global operations directors alike, Propvista aims to provide bespoke solutions matching exceptional aircraft with exceptional service at altitudes high above the ordinary.
