The Dassault Falcon 5X twinjet has flown for the first time, kicking off a short run of flight tests with a preliminary version of Safran’s Silvercrest engine. The first round of tests will last a few weeks, with the full flight test campaign set to begin in 2018.
“We’re committed to limiting the consequences of the four-year engine development delay as much as possible and the short preliminary flight test campaign is part of this effort,” said Eric Trappier, chairman and CEO at Dassault Aviation.
“We will closely monitor the validation tests on the modified Silvercrest, which are scheduled by Safran in the few coming months, as their results will be critical for meeting the 5X entry into service in 2020.
“Our customers are anxious to fly our new wide-body Falcon,” said Trappier. “Combined with the 5X’s new-generation digital flight controls, the new ultra-efficient wing will make it possible to blend the spaciousness and comfort of large cabin jets with the maneuverability, efficiency and airport capability of much smaller aircraft, establishing a new benchmark for the long-range business jet market.”
July 11, 2017
