Dassault Aviation has unveiled its new flagship business jet, the Falcon 10X, describing it as the most ambitious aircraft the company has developed and a new benchmark for long-range business aviation.
The aircraft was rolled out before more than 400 customers, partners and industry figures at Dassault’s Bordeaux-Mérignac facility on 10 March, marking the program’s transition toward flight testing.
Dassault says the Falcon 10X will combine ultra-long-range capability with what it describes as the largest and most versatile cabin yet designed for a purpose-built business jet. President and CEO Eric Trappier said the goal was to make time on board feel like “just another part of everyday life”.
Cabin sets new benchmark
The new aircraft features a cabin measuring 2.77 m wide and 2.03 m tall, larger than some regional jets and wider and taller than its nearest competitors. Interiors can be configured into three- or four-zone layouts including dining areas, private suites, full-size bedrooms and optional showers.
Dassault says passenger comfort has been engineered alongside performance. Cabin altitude will be maintained at 3,000 ft at cruise, supported by continuously renewed fresh air, adjustable temperature zones and 38 large windows designed to maximise natural light.
Composite wing and fighter-derived technology
A major technical milestone for the program is its all-composite wing, the first on a Falcon. Dassault says the new design improves aerodynamic efficiency while maintaining the short-field performance and handling characteristics associated with the Falcon family.
The company has also drawn heavily on experience from its military programs. Dassault remains the only manufacturer producing both advanced fighter jets and business aircraft, a capability reflected in the 10X’s aerodynamics, avionics and flight-control systems.
The aircraft will cruise at speeds approaching Mach 0.925 with a maximum range of 7,500 nm, allowing city pairs such as New York–Shanghai and Los Angeles–Sydney to be flown nonstop.
New flight deck and automation
The Falcon 10X introduces Dassault’s new NeXus flight deck, combining large touch-screen displays with automation designed to reduce pilot workload during complex operations.
Standard equipment will include dual FalconEye enhanced vision systems for improved situational awareness in low visibility and challenging approaches.
The aircraft also debuts the third generation of Dassault’s digital flight-control system in business aviation. Integrated with a Rafale-inspired Smart Throttle, the system manages both engines through a single control and supports functions including noise-abatement climbs, stabilised go-arounds and automatic upset recovery.
Rolls-Royce Pearl 10X engines
Power will come from Rolls-Royce Pearl 10X engines producing more than 18,000 lb of thrust. The engine uses the Advance2 core and is designed to deliver improved fuel efficiency, lower emissions and reduced noise.
Rolls-Royce Director of Business Aviation Dirk Geisinger said the company was “excited and proud to deliver the thrust for this extraordinary aircraft”.
Next phase
With the rollout complete, the Falcon 10X program will now move into flight testing as Dassault works toward certification and entry into service.
The manufacturer has delivered more than 2,800 Falcon business jets worldwide and says the 10X represents the next step in the evolution of the long-range sector.