Aircraft Falcon 7X, 2013

France's Dassault builds Rafale fighters and transfers military technology to the Falcon business jet. Currently in production are the Falcon 2000LXS (large-class, 7,400 km range), the three-engine 900LX, the new 6X with the widest cabin in its class (2.58 m), the flagship 8X (11,900 km), and the upcoming 10X with a range of 13,900 km. More than 2,700 Falcons have been built.

The 900LX and 8X tri-engine configuration is unique to the Dassault. Practical benefits include long-haul ocean route approval without ETOPS restrictions, peace of mind in the event of single-engine failure over mountains or water, and approaches to short, complex runways—the 8X is certified for London City with its steep glide path. Fuel consumption is also lower than many twin-engine competitors, thanks to its lightweight airframe.

The Falcon is aging gracefully: an eight-year-old 2000LXS sells for $18–22 million (new for $37 million), while a 900LX of the same age sells for $23–28 million. Classic 900EXs from the 2000s, at $12–16 million, are considered the best value for a three-engine intercontinental jet. The discount to the similarly sized Gulfstream is explained by the smaller fleet, but the supply of Falcons on the market is also significantly smaller.

The Gulfstream scores with speed and range: the G650ER flies at M0.90 for 13,890 km, while the Falcon 8X flies at M0.85 for 11,945 km. The Falcon scores with fuel economy (the 15–20% consumes less), short-run performance, and fighter-derived digital controls. The 6X/10X cabins are wider than their Gulfstream counterparts. Roughly speaking, the Gulfstream is all about maximum performance, while the Falcon is all about flexibility and efficiency.

This class of nonstop intercontinental flights includes Almaty–New York (14 hours), Moscow–Los Angeles, and Dubai–Sydney with one stopover. The 9,600–14,800 km range saves 3–5 hours on each transfer and eliminates dependence on intermediate countries. Cabins with three or four zones, each with a bedroom, shower, and office, transform a 12-hour flight into a full workday or a night's sleep.

Capacity: 12-19 passengers with berths for 6-10 people. Range: Global 5500 — 10,600 km, G550 — 12,500 km, Falcon 8X — 11,950 km, G650ER — 13,890 km, Global 7500 — 14,260 km, G700 — 14,350 km, Global 8000 — 14,800 km. Cruiser M0.85–0.925; Global 8000 accelerates to M0.94 — faster than all production civil aircraft.

It's separated from the ultra-large class by a range of 3,000–6,000 km and modern airframes with low cabin pressure (equivalent to 900–1,200 m at flight level). Business jets such as the ACJ/BBJ offer two to three times the cabin space, but require longer runways, are more expensive to maintain, and are slower. The formula: regular nonstop flights of 10+ hours with a small group—this class; a residential cabin for 20+ people—a jet.

Global Express XRS and early Global 5000–81T10–16 million: the minimum budget to enter the intercontinental club. G550 — 81T13–18 million, Global 6000 — 81T16–24 million, Falcon 8X — 81T42–52 million, G650ER — 81T42–55 million, Global 7500 — 81T60–70 million. Expensive inspection items: Rolls-Royce BR710/Pearl service life (pair overhaul — 81T6–9 million) and 120/240-month airframe inspection status.

Maintenance costs depend on the intensity of use and the aircraft class. When purchasing an aircraft, consider the following regular expenses:

- Crew and service personnel;
- Aviation fuel and navigation fees;
- Maintenance and insurance;
- Hangar storage and airport fees.

Choosing the right aircraft to purchase is based on key parameters:

- Capacity and comfort of the cabin;
- Flight range and route characteristics;
- Acquisition and operating budget.

Our specialists will offer the best business jet options with a detailed comparison of characteristics.