Upswing Spurred By Large Regional Operators And Increased Globalization Of Commerce

Dassault Falcon sees demand for business jets recovering throughout the Middle East, spurred on by large regional operators and the increased globalization of commerce. Dassault says it plans to deliver six Falcons to Middle East customers over the next 18 months, growing its fleet by 10 percent. More than 60 Falcon business jets already operate in the region, according to the planemaker.

"The Middle East business jet market and its infrastructure are continuing to mature," said John Rosanvallon, President and CEO of Dassault Falcon. "This is due, in part, to increased globalization but also to the development of larger operators and world class facilities such as the Al Maktoum International Airport."

Dassault Falcon will present its range of business jet offerings at the Middle East Business Aviation (MEBA) event, from 11-13 December 2012. Dassault Falcon continues to expand its Middle East sales and support network in order to serve the market. In addition to the Dubai office, the network includes Authorized Service Centers in Dubai and Jeddah, a spares distribution center in Dubai and a technical office in Jeddah.

The Falcon 7X (pictured, above) is Dassault's best selling aircraft and accounts for about 40% of all Dassault Falcon's Middle East business jet sales. Two of the largest 7X  operators in the world are based in the Middle East. Saudia Private Aviation, the business aviation arm of Saudi Arabian Airlines, flies four of the advanced trijets, making it the largest 7X operator in the region. Dubai-based Empire Aviation Group manages three Falcon 7Xs on behalf of owners.

The 7X was the first business jet equipped with a fully digital flight control system, which greatly enhances flight safety and overall comfort. Its 5,950 nm range allows the 7X to serve more than 90 percent of the city pairs demanded by the typical business aviation traveler. The airplane can connect New York to Riyadh, Jeddah to Recife or Dubai to Darwin.

The 3,350 nm Falcon 2000S was shown for the first time at the NBAA in Orlando in October. Set for certification in the first quarter of 2013, the 2000S (pictured) is fitted with inboard slats and winglets that allow it to land at airfields that normally can only be served by much smaller midsize jets. Flight test performance is better than figures announced when the aircraft was unveiled in May 2011.The Falcon 2000S can fly from Dubai to Paris or Riyadh to London City Airport.

The 4,000 nm Falcon 2000LXS, introduced last October, is equipped with the same inboard slats and winglets as the 2000S. The 2000LXS will combine the short field performance of the 2000S and the climb and cruise capabilities of the 2000LX. The Falcon 2000LXS can fly from Dubai to London City or Hong Kong.

FMI: www.dassaultfalcon.com