Dassault’s Falcon 5X makes first virtual flight

Dassault Falcon 5X virtual cockpit

Dassault’s new Falcon 5X business jets makes its first virtual flight in France.

Pilots simulate a flight on a Dassault Falcon 5X business jet.

The Falcon 5X business jet, which was launched last month by Dassault at NBAA 2013, carried-out its first simulated flight, completing an important milestone in the development programme.

The virtual flight was performed on 13 November on the Falcon simulation bench at the company’s design office in St Cloud, France.  Philippe Deleume, Dassault Aviation’s chief test pilot, and Philippe Rebourg, test pilot, were at the controls.

“I was impressed by the simulated behavior of the aircraft, which was extremely sound and responsive,” said Deleume. “We anticipate that it will exhibit exceptional handling qualities in the grand tradition of Dassault aircraft.”

The first flight of the Falcon 5X is expected in the first quarter of 2015.