The Dassault Falcon 8X has completed its ground test campaign, preparing the way for a maiden flight in the first quarter of next year.

The 6,450 nm ultra-long range 8X was unveiled at EBACE in Geneva in May. It adds 500 nm range and 3.5 ft cabin length to the existing 7X.

The extra cabin size will permit more than 30 different configurations. Engine run-up is planned for the end of the year.

Three aircraft will be involved in the flight test and certification campaign, including one fully outfitted with an interior. Aircraft number two completed wing joining operations earlier this month and is due to fly in the second quarter. Deliveries are scheduled to start in the second half of 2016.

“Thanks to the wealth of experience from the popular 7X – over 250 units have been produced to date – and the maturity of the digital processes put in place for its development and production, work on the 8X is quickly advancing,” said Olivier Villa, senior vp civil aircraft at Dassault.