Duncan Aviation has completed its first Dassault Falcon 8X 1C inspection at the company's Battle Creek, Michigan MRO facility. The complex heavy maintenance event was performed for a long-time Duncan Aviation customer and delivered on schedule.

The scope of work included the full 1C inspection requirements, extensive SB (Service Bulletin) compliance, complete exterior paint and a package of avionics and interior modifications. The 1C inspection is the most comprehensive scheduled inspection for Falcon aircraft, requiring the removal of all exterior panels and significant interior components. Operators commonly leverage this extended downtime to complete major upgrades and refurbishments.

Although Duncan Aviation has more than 30 years of experience as a Falcon authorised service centre and has completed hundreds of C-checks on Falcon 2000, 900 and 7X aircraft, this was the company's first Falcon 8X 1C inspection. In preparation, Dale Taylor, Duncan Aviation Falcon airframe team leader, and his team conducted extensive advance planning. This included detailed reviews of inspection and component task cards, familiarisation with applicable SBs and pre-ordering required parts before the aircraft arrived.

The success of the project was driven by close collaboration and open communication between Duncan Aviation project manager Mike Shupp and the customer's director of maintenance.

“Choosing Duncan Aviation was an easy decision based on our long-standing relationship and its consistent quality,” says the director of maintenance. “The communication and proactive planning stood out, and the inspection progressed smoothly from the start.”

In addition to the inspection, the aircraft received a substantial modernisation package designed to enhance both operational capability and passenger experience. Avionics upgrades included the installation of a Satcom Direct Gateway phone system with an Iridium phone and the CPDLC True North datalink unit. Enhancements to the flight deck and cabin included a Garmin dual GI 275 standby system, 60W USB-C power delivery charging ports, new AC outlets and Flight Deck Ingenio iPad mounts.

The interior was refreshed with new entry flooring in luxury vinyl tile and a forward divan cabinet featuring a custom ice cabinet and storage solution. These upgrades were completed alongside a full, unique, high-quality exterior paint application.

Duncan Aviation has additional Falcon 8X 1C inspections scheduled throughout 2026 and beyond.