Dassault Falcon poised for growth in Middle East

Dassault Falcon sees demand for business jets recovering throughout the Middle East, spurred on by large regional operators.

Dassault plan to deliver six Falcons to Middle East customers over the next 18 months. More than 60 Falcon business jets already operate in the region.

“The Middle East business jet market and its infrastructure are continuing to mature,” said John Rosanvallon, president and CEO of Dassault Falcon. “This is due, in part, to increased globalization but also to the development of larger operators and world class facilities such as the Al Maktoum International Airport.”

Dassault Falcon are displaying three business jets at MEBA, a Falcon 7X, Falcon 900LX and a Falcon 2000S

Dassault Falcon continues to expand its Middle East sales and support network in order to serve the Middle East market. In addition to the Dubai office, the network includes authorised service centres in Dubai and Jeddah, a spares distribution center in Dubai and a technical office in Jeddah.

“Falcons are well-suited to the demands of our Middle East customers, offering long range and large, roomy cabins which are ideal for work or rest,” says Renaud Cloatre, Dassault Falcon’s sales director for the Middle East. “Moreover, Falcons burn 20-40% less fuel and offer up to 50% lower operating costs than some aircraft in their class.”

The Falcon 7X is Dassault’s best selling aircraft and accounts for about 40% of all Dassault Falcon’s Middle East business jet sales. Two of the largest 7X operators in the world are based in the Middle East. Saudia Private Aviation, flies four aircraft, making it the largest 7X operator in the region. Dubai-based Empire Aviation Group manages three Falcon 7Xs on behalf of owners.

The Falcon 7X can connect New York to Riyadh, Jeddah to Recife or Dubai to Darwin. The aircraft also has the capability to land at airports with short runways such as La Mole St Tropez in France and to meet the demands of London City Airport, with its steep approach and noise restrictions.

The Falcon 2000S was shown for the first time at the NBAA in Orlando in October. Set for certification in the first quarter of 2013, the Falcon 2000S can fly from Dubai to Paris or Riyadh to London City Airport.