Dassault Falcon 900LX

The Dassault Falcon 900LX is the latest version of the manufacturers Falcon 900 lineup. The 900LX is one of just three in-production tri-jet aircraft, the other two being the 7X and 8X.

Why three engines? Dassault argue that not only is its “ramp appeal undeniable”, but it also benefits comfort and performance.

Three engines allow for a more space efficient cabin and lower critical speeds for landing. This not only provides safer landings but also increases its short field capabilities.

Furthermore, three engines make the 900LX more maneuverable on the ground, requires less hangar space and greater peace of mind.

The 900LX has a long history. Based on the Falcon 900 platform which was a development of the Falcon 50.

The Falcon 50 was itself a development of the Falcon 20. The first flight of the Falcon 900 was in 1984.

Since then over 500 Falcon 900 aircraft (inclusive of all variants) have been built. Civilian variants of the Falcon 900 are as follows: Falcon 900, Falcon 900B, Falcon 900C, Falcon 900EX, Falcon 900EX EASy, Falcon 900DX and of course the Falcon 900LX.

The Falcon 900 aircraft are popular among both civilian and military operators.

Military versions of the tri-jet aircraft are used by the Bolivian Air Force, Japan Coast Guart, Nigerian Air Force and Italian Air Force, to name a few.

The Falcon 900LX builds on the success of its predecessors. According to Dassault, the 900LX “stands alone in its class for performance, comfort and efficiency”.

With every variant Dassault build and refine the aircraft. All variants built on the strengths of the previous generation.

Therefore, Dassault have created an industry benchmark for longevity, durability, reliability and long-term value retention.

The Falcon 900LX is powered by three Honeywell TFE731-60 engines. Each engine produces 5,000 lbs of thrust as sea level.

These three engines provide unbeatable efficiency, low fuel consumption and quiet operation.

Over 11,000 of these engines have entered service and logged more than 100 million hours. You can, therefore, be certain that these engines are dependable and proved their reliability.

The Falcon has a minimum take off distance of 5,360 feet. The aircraft is capable of landing in as little as 2,415 feet.

This, for example, allows the aircraft to navigate smaller airports. Ultimately, this will allow you to arrive closer to your final destination, thus reducing overall travel time.

The tri-jet is capable of cruising at 459 knots at a maximum altitude of 51,000 feet. In its optimum configuration the aircraft can travel up to 4,750 Nautical Miles (5,466 Miles / 8,797 KM) without refueling.

The 900LX has a Maximum Take Off Weight (MTOW) of 49,000 lbs. Additionally, the aircraft has 127 cubic feet dedicated to carrying your baggage.

The interiors of Falcon aircraft have always been breathtaking. Dassault are able to perfectly blend style with functionality.

The 900LX is no exception.

In Dassault’s own words, the Falcon 900LX is “elegant in design and smart in function”.

Dassault have interactive design centers at Teterboro, New Jersey and Le Bourget, Paris. These facilities are equipped with Dassault’s CATIA software and staffed by world-class design professionals.

These centers enable customers to make informed and confident choices about the interior design of the aircraft.

Customers are able to envision their interiors and examine features in actual aircraft and mockups.

Customers can then proceed to select from a range of fabrics, leathers, carpets, veneers, electronics, equipment and accessories. Passengers are able to control the entire cabin from the FalconCabin HD+ cabin management system.

This allows passengers to control the entire cabin from the comfort of their own seat. Features such as lighting and temperature can all be controlled.

Additionally, passengers can select from a wide range of entertainment and connectivity tools. Voice and broadband data services provided by SATCOM can also be optioned on the 900LX.

The quality in the cabin is second to none inside the 900LX. An elegant mix of materials has led to a tastefully designed interior.

Through an efficient use of space the designers have also been able to craft a spacious feeling cabin. Controls from the cabin management system are neatly hidden in the armrest.

This places control within easy reach but is not obtrusive. Closely spaced windows allow for an abundance of natural light within the cabin.

Dassault have been able to keep the noise level within the cabin to just 54 decibels. This, combined its innovative “mood lighting”, makes the aircraft a relaxing place to spend a few hours.

Dassault have fitted the Falcon 900LX with the EASy II flight deck. Dassault describe this as “business aviation’s most advanced flight deck”.

The EASy II flight deck improves crew coordination and situational awareness.

Features include Dassault’s Combined Vision System and FalconEYE. FalconEYE is a head up display (HUD) that blends synthetic, database-drive terrain mapping to thermal and low-light camera images.

These factors are combined into a single view on the HUD. The resulting factor of this technology is an unprecedented level of situational awareness.

The charter price for the Dassault Falcon 900LX is estimated to cost $5,900 per flight hour.

Naturally, prices will vary depending on avaiablility, fuel prices, ground fees and more.