On May 5, Dassault’s first production Falcon 7X completed its maiden flight, departing from Bordeaux Mérignac Airport for its one hour

and 36 minutes flight, under the control of test pilots Yves Kerherve and Philippe Deleume.

Following takeoff, the aircraft climbed to 10,000 feet for hydraulic, fuel, landing gear and air

data systems checks. Acceleration and deceleration tests occurred at 25,000 feet.

“The aircraft performed beautifully and we’re on track to start the rigourous 15 months of flight testing ahead,” said Kerherve. Since its first flight, the aeroplane was relocated to Dassault’s flight test centre in Istres and has been flying on a near daily basis.

The aircraft carries the registration F-WFBW – a reference to the fact that it is the first business jet to be designed with a ‘fly by wire’ flight control system.

Dassault anticipates FAA and EASA certification for the 5,700nm aircraft before the end of 2006. The company states that with a delivery lead time entering into 2009, it will increase production of the 7X from 2.5 to 3 aircraft per month.

“Since our initial announcement, demand for this aircraft has been strong,” said John Rosanvallon, president and ceo of Dassault Falcon Jet. “We’ve received over 50 firm orders with numerous strong prospects. This aircraft has a very bright future.”