Dassault is preparing to roll-out its Falcon 5X business jet on 2 June at its Bordeaux-Merignac facility, and says the all-new large-cabin long-range business jet is on track for first flight in the second half of the year.
The French airframer launched the 5,200nm (9,630km)-range twinjet in October 2013. With a fuselage diameter of 2.7m (8.9ft) and a cabin height of 1.98m, the 5X is the largest aircraft in Dassault’s six-strong high-end business jet family, and boasts the widest cabin in its class.
The aircraft is powered by Snecma’s Silvercrest engine, marking the first time a Falcon has been launched with an all-new powerplant, or one produced by the French manufacturer. The $45 million fly-by-wire aircraft is projected to have a maximum speed of 370kt (685km/h) and a maximum take-off weight of 31,600kg (69,700lb).
The 5X – which also features a next-generation EASy cockpit and Elbit head-up display – is earmarked for certification and service entry in 2016 and 2017 respectively.
The 5X is being developed in parallel with the airframer's flagship type, the ultra-long-range 8X. The second of three test aircraft recently entered flight testing, and Dassault says the 6,450nm-range trijet is on target for certification and service entry next year.
The 5X and 8X will be completed at Dassault’s Little Rock site in Arkansas, USA. This campus’ footprint is currently being expanded by 23,200m2 (250,000ft2) to accommodate the new arrivals. The $60 million project is slated for completion in early 2016.
Source: Flight International
