Dassault Falcon 10X flight testing has officially begun, marking a critical milestone in the development of Dassault Aviation’s most ambitious business jet to date. The start of flight testing signals the transition from design and ground validation to real-world performance evaluation, bringing the ultra-long-range Falcon 10X closer to entry into service. For operators, charter clients, and the broader business aviation market, this phase confirms Dassault’s confidence in the aircraft’s advanced systems, aerodynamics, and overall design maturity.
Building Dassault’s Most Capable Business Jet
Dassault Falcon 10X | Photo: dassaultfalcon.com
The Falcon 10X was unveiled by Dassault Aviation as its new flagship business jet, designed to set benchmarks in range, cabin comfort, and digital flight controls. Positioned above the Falcon 8X, the aircraft targets non-stop intercontinental missions while offering the largest cabin cross-section in the Falcon family.
According to Dassault Aviation, the Falcon 10X is engineered for a range of approximately 7,500 nautical miles, enabling routes such as New York–Shanghai or Los Angeles–Sydney under optimal conditions Dassault Aviation. The aircraft is powered by two Rolls-Royce Pearl 10X engines, specifically developed to deliver high thrust, efficiency, and reduced environmental impact.
What Dassault Falcon 10X Flight Testing Involves
The Falcon 10X soars over Sydney, Australia | Photo: dassaultfalcon.com
The start of Dassault Falcon 10X flight testing represents a comprehensive evaluation program that will span multiple aircraft and test phases. Initial flights focus on basic handling qualities, flight control laws, and system integration before expanding into envelope expansion, high-speed performance, and extreme-weather operations.
Industry analysts note that Dassault’s flight-test campaigns are known for their depth and rigor, leveraging both real-world flying and advanced digital simulation. This approach helps reduce program risk and ensures a smoother certification process.
Key Objectives of the Flight-Test Campaign
- Validation of digital flight control systems derived from Dassault’s fighter jet expertise
- Performance verification of the Rolls-Royce Pearl 10X engines
- Assessment of range, fuel efficiency, and climb performance
- Cabin environmental testing, including pressurization and noise levels
- Certification compliance with EASA and FAA requirements
Next-Generation Systems and Intelligent Design
Falcon 10X, NeXus flight deck | Photo: dassaultfalcon.com
The Falcon 10X incorporates Dassault’s next-generation fly-by-wire system, optimized for passenger comfort and precise handling. This system continuously adjusts control inputs to ensure smooth flight characteristics, even in turbulent conditions.
Another defining feature is the cabin design. Dassault states that the Falcon 10X will offer the tallest and widest cabin in its class, allowing for full-height showers, a dedicated crew rest area, and multiple cabin configurations Dassault Aviation. During flight testing, cabin systems such as pressurization, humidity control, and acoustics will be closely monitored to meet Dassault’s comfort standards.
Timeline Toward Certification and Entry into Service
Dassault and Rolls-Royce are targeting 2027 for Falcon 10X entry into service, | Photo: dassaultfalcon.com
With Dassault Falcon 10X flight testing underway, the program now enters one of its most visible phases. While exact timelines can evolve, Dassault has previously indicated an entry-into-service target in the latter part of the decade, subject to certification progress and test results.
Flight testing will involve multiple test aircraft operating from Dassault facilities in France, as well as international locations to validate hot-and-high, cold-weather, and long-range cruise performance. Data collected during these flights will be used to finalize aircraft manuals, training programs, and maintenance documentation.
[EXCLU] 🇫🇷 Le Falcon 10X Dassault Aviation franchit une étape clé : son premier prototype désormais entièrement assemblé a fait son apparition en essais statiques à Bordeaux.
🏁 Le nouveau jet privé ultra-long-courrier pourrait réaliser son premier vol prochainement, avant une…— Actu Aero /// AAF (@AAF_Aviation) December 12, 2025
Enhancing Long-Range Charter Capabilities
The Falcon 10X is expected to compete directly with other ultra-long-range business jets, offering an alternative that emphasizes digital flight controls, operational efficiency, and cabin comfort. For charter operators and clients, this translates into fewer fuel stops, improved scheduling flexibility, and a quieter, more spacious onboard experience.
As flight testing progresses, market confidence typically grows, influencing purchase commitments and fleet planning decisions. The launch of Dassault Falcon 10X flight testing therefore represents not only a technical milestone but also a strategic moment for Dassault Aviation within the global business aviation sector.
Performance and Cabin Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Range | 7,500 nautical miles |
| Range Reference Speed | Mach 0.85 |
| Maximum Operating Speed (MMO) | Mach 0.925 |
| Engines | 2 × Rolls-Royce Pearl 10X |
| Engine Thrust (per engine) | >18,000 lb thrust |
| Cabin Height | 6 ft 8 in (2.03 m) |
| Cabin Width | 9 ft 1 in (2.77 m) |
| Cabin Volume | 2,780 cu ft (79 m³) |
| Length | Not officially published |
| Wingspan | Not officially published |
| Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW) | Not officially published |
Setting the Stage for the Falcon 10X
The Falcon 10X boasts a 7,500 nm (13,890 km) range | Photo: dassaultfalcon.com
The commencement of Dassault Falcon 10X flight testing underscores Dassault Aviation’s steady progress toward delivering its most capable business jet ever. Through a structured and data-driven test program, Dassault aims to validate the Falcon 10X’s promised performance, safety, and comfort.
As testing advances, Flex Air Charters will be watching closely, anticipating how this aircraft will redefine expectations in the ultra-long-range business jet market.