This website uses cookies
More information
The monthly news publication for aviation professionals.

Why visit ACE ’25?

Related background information from the Handbook...
The monthly news publication for aviation professionals.

Request your printed copy

First Falcon 6X arrives at Little Rock completion centre
The first production Falcon 6X has landed at the Little Rock completion centre. The team has been preparing long and hard for its arrival, and will embrace all things digital so as to streamline activities.
The first Falcon 6X arrives at Dassault’s Little Rock completion centre.
Read this story in our February 2022 printed issue.

Dassault Aviation has welcomed the first production Falcon 6X extra widebody twin to the Falcon completion centre in Little Rock, Arkansas. Falcon 6X serial number five was ferried on Friday, 28 January from the Merignac production facility in France, where all Falcons complete initial assembly, to the 1.25 million sq ft Little Rock facility.

“The arrival of the first Falcon 6X at Little Rock marks a very positive milestone in this programme,” says Dassault chairman and CEO Eric Trappier. “Our teams have been working tirelessly behind the scenes to prepare for 6X completion, and we are benefiting from very good momentum as we move towards certification.”

Teams in Little Rock have been preparing for months, anticipating the arrival of the first Falcon 6X with new engineering solutions that aim to accelerate the completion and delivery cycle. A dedicated 6X technical response team has performed robustness and cycle testing on equipment and components in preparation of manufacturing. Engineers have also designed processes that will allow 'one shot installation' on interiors, further reducing completion time.

Advanced digital technologies are at the forefront of efforts to streamline completion activities. These include a dedicated virtual plateau capable of displaying any system or component on the aircraft using Dassault Systemes 3D CATIA design and product lifecycle management software that helps teams visualise and plan for the most efficient approach to each aircraft completion.

Completions will be performed in a spacious state-of-the-art hangar that came online in 2015. The hangar was designed from the start to accommodate completions for advanced new models like the Falcon 6X.

Currently, three Falcon 6X aircraft are involved in Dassault's rigorous flight test programme, including one that is undergoing extreme weather and endurance testing. The Pratt & Whitney Canada PW812D engine that powers the 6X recently received Transport Canada certification, with EASA and FAA certifications expected to follow shortly. A fourth aircraft equipped with a full interior will fly at the end of the first quarter and undertake a round-the-world campaign intended to demonstrate the full maturity of aircraft systems at entry into service.

The first Falcon 6X is expected to enter into service later this year.

Other News
 
Gogo and Airbus ACJ collaborate on advanced connectivity solutions
February 10, 2025
The partnership aims to enhance in-flight broadband with Gogo’s ATG and Galileo satellite connectivity across the Airbus ACJ fleet.
IADA stands optimistic for pre-owned sales in 2025
January 27, 2025
IADA’s Fourth Quarter 2024 Market Report shows that its dealers completed 1,559 transactions in 2024, while the fourth quarter alone saw 562 aircraft deals finalised. Post-election clarity boosts confidence, it says.
GAMA reveals 2025 Executive Committee leadership
January 12, 2025
Kodiak 100 five-blade propeller is enabled for ops on floats
October 22, 2024
The new pitch latch function enables float-equipped Kodiak 100s to be easily manoeuvred on water with greater control and safety as the prop can be set in a fine pitch position during engine startup and shutdown.