Dassault Falcon 5X: The super-midsize business jet cancelled

Tuesday, March 4, 2025

The Dassault Falcon 5X was a promising super-midsize business jet that pushed the boundaries of performance and passenger comfort. However, chronic engine development issues ultimately led to the cancellation of the program in 2017, despite the aircraft making its first flight. The key features of the 5X included a spacious cabin, advanced technologies, and impressive range capabilities that would have made it a top contender in its class.

Development and cancellation of the Falcon 5X

Origins and initial design

The Falcon 5X was originally conceived in 2013 as a super-midsize business jet targeted at a high-end niche between existing models:

• Designed to compete with aircraft like the Gulfstream G450 and Bombardier Global 5000
• Planned to have the largest cross-section of any purpose-built business jet
• Powered by new Silvercrest engines from Safran, the first application for this engine

The 5X was the culmination of customer feedback and innovative features from Dassault:

• Ultra-wide cabin with three distinct lounge areas
• Skylight and 28 extra-large windows for ample natural light
• Advanced digital flight controls and a next-generation cockpit

Engine development issues

The Falcon 5X suffered chronic delays due to problems with the development of its Safran Silvercrest engines. Technical issues pushed back the engine's planned availability, forcing Dassault to postpone the 5X's first flight by over two years from 2015 to 2017.

In the fall of 2017, Safran informed Dassault of additional performance shortfalls with the compressor that made the 5X's planned 2020 entry into service impossible. Considering the risks involved, Dassault decided to terminate the Silvercrest contract, effectively ending the Falcon 5X program in December 2017 before it could be certified and delivered to customers.

The engine problems led to order cancellations as customers grew impatient with the multiple delays. Dassault then launched a new Falcon model to replace the 5X, featuring the same cross-section but using more reliable Pratt & Whitney Canada engines, aiming for a 2022 introduction.

First flight and program termination

The Falcon 5X took to the skies for the first time on July 5, 2017 from Dassault's Bordeaux-Mérignac facility. The 2-hour maiden flight, piloted by Philippe Deleume and Philippe Rebourg, aimed to collect critical airframe and systems data to supplement ground testing. However, the flight used preliminary versions of the Silvercrest engines due to development issues at Safran.

In the fall of 2017, Safran discovered additional performance shortfalls with the engines, making the planned 2020 entry into service impossible. Faced with untenable technical and schedule risks, Dassault Aviation made the difficult decision in December 2017 to terminate the Silvercrest contract and end the Falcon 5X program. The company then launched a new Falcon model, featuring the same fuselage cross-section but utilizing Pratt & Whitney Canada engines, with a 2022 service entry target.

Key features and specifications of the Falcon 5X

Cabin design and passenger comfort

The Falcon 5X boasts one of the most spacious and luxurious cabins in its class. The extra-wide fuselage allows for a cabin height of 6 feet 6 inches and a width of 8 feet 6 inches, providing ample space for passengers to move around.

However, the cabin is not just about raw dimensions. Dassault has incorporated features like 28 large windows to let in abundant natural light and create a bright, airy atmosphere. Passengers can enjoy spectacular views while relaxing in the quiet, well-appointed interior.

Overall, the 5X delivers a perfect mix of space, comfort and style, setting a new standard for the large-cabin, long-range business jet segment. Every detail has been carefully designed to provide an optimal passenger experience during those long intercontinental flights.

Performance capabilities

The Falcon 5X delivers exceptional performance for a super-midsize jet:

• Range: 5,200 nautical miles, connecting city pairs like London to Los Angeles or Shanghai to Sydney
• Speed: Mach 0.90 top speed, Mach 0.80 typical cruise
• Short field capabilities, with the ability to access smaller airports like Aspen or London City
• Fuel efficiency, pioneering low fuel consumption in its class

These performance features allow the 5X to offer passengers unrivaled flexibility and efficiency. With its intercontinental range, high-speed cruise, and access to more airports, the Falcon 5X opens up a world of travel possibilities while optimizing operating costs.

Advanced technologies

The Falcon 5X integrates cutting-edge technologies to deliver superior performance and passenger comfort:

• A new-generation digital flight control system optimizes handling and smooths the ride
• The spacious cabin features a skylight and 28 extra-large windows for abundant natural light
• A state-of-the-art cabin management system allows passengers to easily control the environment
• The advanced wing design delivers excellent short-field capabilities and fuel efficiency

These innovations make the 5X a pioneer in the super-midsize segment, setting new standards for the private jet experience. From the ultra-quiet cabin to the highly responsive controls, every element is designed to deliver unrivaled performance and style.

Legacy and influence on future Falcon jets

Transition to the Falcon 6X

When Dassault terminated the Falcon 5X program in December 2017 due to engine issues, they quickly pivoted to launch the Falcon 6X, a new model that would leverage much of the 5X development work:

• The 6X features the same fuselage cross-section as the 5X, allowing Dassault to reuse the spacious cabin design
• Aerodynamic and systems advancements validated during 5X preliminary flight tests were optimized for the 6X
• The 6X reinforces the new wing design from the 5X and retains its advanced digital flight control system

By building on proven 5X technologies, Dassault was able to accelerate the 6X development timeline. The company selected reliable Pratt & Whitney Canada PW812D engines for the 6X, targeting a 2022 service entry that would limit the impact of the 5X cancellation.

Lessons learned for future programs

The cancellation of the Falcon 5X program due to ongoing engine issues provides several valuable takeaways for Dassault's future business jet development:

Careful engine selection is critical. Engines must be proven reliable and meet all performance specifications to avoid costly delays.

Flexibility is key. Having the agility to pivot to a new engine supplier or modify the aircraft design can help overcome major setbacks.

Leveraging existing technologies and designs, such as the 5X cross-section and aerodynamics, can accelerate development of new models like the 6X.

By applying these lessons, Dassault can better mitigate risks, control costs, and speed time-to-market for its upcoming aircraft programs. This will be essential for remaining competitive in the demanding business aviation sector.

While the Dassault Falcon 5X program was ultimately cancelled due to persistent engine issues, its legacy lives on in the Falcon 6X. By leveraging the 5X fuselage cross-section, aerodynamics, and systems validated during preliminary flight tests, Dassault has created a new aircraft that builds upon the best of the 5X while offering enhanced performance and reliability. As the business aviation industry continues to evolve, the lessons learned from the 5X will undoubtedly shape Dassault's future offerings, ensuring that the company remains at the forefront of innovation and customer satisfaction.