The Dassault Falcon 900, often referred to as the F900, is an exceptional corporate trijet aircraft manufactured by the prestigious Dassault Aviation, showcasing French innovation and craftsmanship in the realm of business aviation. Taking to the skies for the first time on September 21, 1984, this remarkable aircraft has maintained an enduring presence and is still actively produced today, with the Falcon 900 possessing a great reputation as a reliable aircraft for private jet charter. With a rich history, an array of variants, and a diverse range of operators, the Falcon 900 has cemented its status as an iconic figure in the world of business jets.
Evolution of the Falcon 900
The genesis of the Falcon 900 can be traced back to its predecessor, the Falcon 50, which itself evolved from the earlier Falcon 20. The Falcon 50 laid the foundation for the Falcon 900’s development by introducing pioneering design elements and technological advancements. A noteworthy feature that set the Falcon 900 apart from its predecessors was its pioneering use of composite materials in its construction, striking a balance between weight reduction and structural integrity.
Over the years, the Falcon 900 family has seen several models, each offering unique enhancements and capabilities. Some notable members of this family include:
Falcon 900-B
Unveiled in 1984, the Falcon 900-B was the initial production model. It was powered by three Garrett TFE731-5AR-1C turbofan engines, each delivering 20 kN (4,500 lbf) of thrust. The aircraft received certification from French and U.S. aviation authorities in 1986.
Falcon 900 MSA
This variant was tailored for the Japan Coast Guard, serving as a maritime patrol aircraft. Equipped with search radar and a hatch for dropping rescue stores, it was adapted for specific operational needs.
Falcon 900C
Introduced in 2000, the Falcon 900C was designed to replace the 900-B, bringing forth improved features and performance enhancements.
Falcon 900EX
The long-range iteration of the Dassault Falcon 900, the 900EX, featured engines delivering 22.24 kN (5,000 lbf) of thrust. This variant was equipped with TFE731-60 engines, offering an impressive range of 8,340 km (4,501 nm; 5,180 miles) and was equipped with avionics by Honeywell Primus.
Falcon 900EX EASy
Produced from 2004 to 2009, the Falcon 900EX EASy integrated Honeywell/Dassault Primus Epic EASy avionics and TFE731-60 engines, enhancing performance and efficiency.
Falcon 900DX
This shorter-range production type was powered by TFE731-60 engines, catering to missions that required efficiency over extended range.
Falcon 900LX
The Falcon 900LX is the latest production variant of the EX, distinguished by its blended winglets, which extend its range to 4,750 nautical miles (8,800 kilometers).
Envoy IV (VC-900A)
The Royal Air Force (RAF) designated the 900LX as Envoy IV, highlighting its adaptability for military transportation.
VC-900B
This designation was assigned by the Italian military to the 900EX EASy, underlining its role in various armed forces.
Operational Significance
Beyond its role as a symbol of luxury and performance in corporate aviation, the Falcon 900 has proven itself as a reliable workhorse for official transportation. It is widely used by the Transport Squadron 60, also known as the Transportation, Training, and Calibration Squadron 65, responsible for the transportation of French state officials.
Operators: Civil and Military
The Falcon 900 has found favor with a diverse array of operators, both civil and military, demonstrating its versatility and adaptability. Noteworthy operators include:
Civil Operators
Libya: Government-owned Falcon 900 (tail number 5A-DCN).
Qatar: Qatar Amiri Flight.
Saudi Arabia: Saudia Private Aviation.
Military Operators
Bolivia: The Bolivian Air Force operates a Falcon 900EX, registered as FAB-001, serving as the presidential aircraft.
France: The French Air and Space Force.
Germany: The Bundesnachrichtendienst (Federal Intelligence Service).
Italy: The Italian Air Force, with a fleet of five Falcon 900EX aircraft since 2005.
Japan: The Japan Coast Guard.
Malaysia: The Royal Malaysian Air Force.
Namibia: The Namibian Air Force.
Nigeria: The Nigerian Air Force.
Portugal: The Portuguese Air Force.
Russia: The President of Russia.
South Africa: The South African Air Force.
Spain: The Spanish Air and Space Force.
Syria: The Syrian Air Force.
United Kingdom: The Royal Air Force, which operates two 900LXs, transitioning from civil to full military use in 2024.
United Arab Emirates: The United Arab Emirates Air Force.
Switzerland: The Swiss Air Force, operating the 900EX EASy II, purchased from Monaco.
Venezuela: The Venezuelan Air Force.
Former Operators
The Falcon 900 has graced the skies of various countries over the years, but some have phased out their operations. Notable former operators include:
Algeria: The Algerian Air Force.
Australia: The Royal Australian Air Force, which operated five Falcon 900s from 1989 to 2003.
Belgium: The Belgian Air Component, with one aircraft in use until 2019 for VIP transport.
Gabon: The Gabon Air Force.
Greece: The Government of Greece.
Malawi: The Government of Malawi purchased a Falcon 900EX in 2009 as a presidential jet but sold it in 2013.
Monaco: The Government of Monaco, which replaced the Falcon 900 with a Falcon 7X.
Notable Incidents
While the Falcon 900 boasts an impressive safety record, it is not exempt from accidents and incidents. Two significant incidents stand out:
September 14, 1999: A Falcon 900B operated for the Greek Government by Olympic Airways, bearing the registration SX-ECH. During descent for landing in Bucharest, Romania, the autopilot disengaged, resulting in several pilot-induced oscillations. Tragically, this incident led to fatalities, with seven passengers losing their lives, two suffering serious injuries, and two sustaining minor injuries. Among the victims was Giannos Kranidiotis, the then-deputy foreign minister for Greece.
February 13, 2021: A Falcon 900EX corporate jet with the registration N823RC experienced a landing gear collapse during an aborted takeoff at Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport in California. Fortunately, all five occupants on board escaped without injuries, despite the significant damage to the aircraft. An investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) revealed that the captain did not possess a valid pilot certificate due to a prior emergency revocation by the FAA two years earlier. The revocation stemmed from the captain’s falsification of logbook entries and records pertaining to pilot proficiency checks, competency checks, and training events while serving as a check pilot for a Part 135 operator.
Specifications (Falcon 900B)
The Falcon 900B, a true marvel of aviation engineering, boasts impressive specifications that highlight its capabilities:
Crew: The aircraft is typically operated by a crew of two.
Capacity: With an expansive cabin, the Falcon 900B can accommodate up to 19 passengers, ensuring a luxurious and comfortable travel experience.
Dimensions and Weight
Length: Measuring 20.21 meters (66 feet 4 inches) from nose to tail, the Falcon 900B presents an impressive physical presence.
Wingspan: With a wingspan of 19.33 meters (63 feet 5 inches), this aircraft is well-equipped for stability and aerodynamic performance.
Wing Area: The wing area covers 49.0 square meters (527 square feet), contributing to the aircraft’s lift and control.
Performance
Aspect Ratio: The Falcon 900B features an aspect ratio of 7.63:1, enhancing its aerodynamic efficiency and lift-to-drag ratio.
Empty Weight: The aircraft’s empty weight is approximately 10,255 kilograms (22,608 pounds), reflecting a balance between structural strength and weight reduction.
Maximum Takeoff Weight: With a maximum takeoff weight of 20,640 kilograms (45,503 pounds), the Falcon 900B is capable of carrying substantial loads.
Fuel Capacity: The aircraft boasts an impressive fuel capacity of 8,690 kilograms (19,160 pounds), ensuring long-range capabilities.
Powerplant
Engines: The Falcon 900B is powered by three AlliedSignal TFE731-5BR-1C turbofan engines, each delivering a robust thrust of 21.13 kN (4,750 lbf). These engines provide the necessary power for the aircraft’s operations.
Speed and Range
Maximum Speed: The Falcon 900B achieves a maximum speed within the Mach range of 0.84 to 0.87, ensuring rapid transit between destinations.
Cruise Speed: Cruising at approximately 950 kilometers per hour (590 mph) or Mach 0.85 at an altitude of 11,000 meters (36,000 feet), the Falcon 900B delivers an efficient and comfortable travel experience.
Stall Speed: With wheels and flaps down, the stall speed of the Falcon 900B is approximately 158 kilometers per hour (98 mph, 85 knots).
Range: With a range of 7,400 kilometers (4,600 miles, 4,000 nautical miles) while carrying eight passengers, the Falcon 900B offers versatility in reaching a multitude of destinations.
Service Ceiling: The aircraft reaches a service ceiling of 15,500 meters (50,900 feet), allowing it to navigate challenging airspace with ease.
Related Developments and Comparable Aircraft
The Falcon 900 is part of the distinguished Dassault Falcon family, which includes other renowned models such as the Dassault Falcon 50, Dassault Falcon 2000, and Dassault Falcon 7X. These aircraft share the legacy of exceptional performance, advanced technology, and luxurious interiors that define Dassault’s commitment to excellence in business aviation.
Aircraft with comparable roles, configurations, and eras include the Bombardier Challenger 605, Bombardier Global 5500, Embraer Legacy 600/650, and the Gulfstream G450. These aircraft share the skies with the Falcon 900, each offering unique features tailored to the discerning needs of their passengers and operators.
In conclusion, the Dassault Falcon 900 is a masterpiece of French aerospace engineering, blending innovation, performance, and luxurious travel into a single, impressive package. With a lineage rooted in the Falcon family’s legacy, the Falcon 900 continues to soar through the skies, serving both civil and military operators with style and efficiency. While not without its challenges, the Falcon 900 remains a symbol of prestige and capability in the world of corporate aviation, embodying the essence of Dassault Aviation’s dedication to excellence.
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