Focus On Fuel Efficiency For 900EX Replacement

During Monday's pre-show activities at EBACE2008 in Geneva, Dassault announced the 900LX, the next member of the efficient family of Falcon business jets. The Falcon 900LX will be built on the same platform as the Falcon 900EX EASy but will feature winglets and an extended range to 4,800 nautical miles. Certification is expected in the first half of 2010.

The Falcon 900LX will be available for deliveries starting mid-2010, and will replace the Falcon 900EX.

"The 900LX will make one of the most popular Falcon series much more capable, economical and environmentally responsible to operate -- an issue that means more today than ever before," said John Rosanvallon, President and CEO of Dassault Falcon. "Our customers have been telling us that efficiency is becoming a bigger part of the decision making process when acquiring a business jet. The 900LX will be the most efficient airplane in its class even more so."

Following initial flight testing, the Falcon 900LX's improved wing aerodynamics demonstrated a reduction in drag by as much as 7%, offering corresponding range and efficiency improvements over the Falcon 900EX. The climb performance will be also improved by 10% and the airplane will be capable to reach FL390 in just 20 minutes. The 900LX will feature 55-70% better efficiency than other airplanes in its class.

Stronger wing reinforcements due to higher wing loading are necessary to accommodate the winglets which were originally designed by Aviation Partners (API) for the Falcon 2000EX program. Some systems' changes are necessary to accommodate the new configuration. Dassault Falcon and API's intent is to propose a retrofit program for in-service Falcon 900 operators.

The aircraft comes standard with the award-winning EASy flight deck. The EASy flight deck is designed to reduce pilot workload and improve pilot interaction through elevated situational awareness in the cockpit. Today, over 215 EASy equipped aircraft are in operation.

The Falcon 900LX will be powered by the same Honeywell TFE731-60 engines as the 900EX. Each of the three turbofans is rated at 5,000 lbs of thrust (ISA + 17C), and the Falcon unique three-engine configuration offers significant benefits in runway performance and added security on long over-water flights.

FMI: www.dassaultfalcon.com