Fly Cheaper

Dassault has unveiled its latest business jet, the Falcon 2000S, which will be a low-cost derivative of the Falcon 2000. The 3,350 nm range 2000S is priced at $6 million or so and the 4,000 nm range 2000LX carries a $32.1 million price tag. It will carry improved engines with Pratt & Whitney Canada’s PW308C providing a new Talon II combustor that cuts nitrous oxide emissions by 20 per cent. Its emissions are now 40 per cent below CAEP6 standards.

The new twin-jet has been conceptualised keeping tough economic times in mind and may compete with smaller midsize offerings with its price tag of ‘under $25 million’. The 2000S retains the Falcon 2000LX’s cabin size but its take-off and landing performance is much improved because of wing modifications. Making its first flight on February 17 this year, certification for the 2000S is planned for the end of 2012. The first delivery is scheduled for early 2013.

John Rosanvallon, President and CEO of Dassault Falcon said, “We optimised the platform with a long list of standard options, cutting-edge technology and industry leading features with the Falcon 2000S. Our proudest accomplishment, though, was designing an aircraft that burns 10 per cent less fuel than an aircraft 20 per cent smaller while offering a very competitive price.”

Although costlier than other super-midsize business jets such as the Challenger 300, Gulfstream 250 and Hawker 4000, Dassault claims that its lower fuel consumption will reduce the direct operating costs.