Overview of the Falcon 50
The Dassault Falcon 50 is a French-made, long-range business jet that was first introduced in 1984. Manufactured by Dassault Aviation, this twin-engine jet is primarily designed for private use and can accommodate up to eight passengers. Its primary purpose is for executive transportation, offering a high level of comfort and luxury while in the air.
Technical Specifications
The Falcon 50 has the following technical specifications:
- Dimensions: Length: 53 ft 8 in (16.35 m), Wingspan: 44 ft 4 in (13.51 m), Height: 15 ft 3 in (4.65 m)
- Weight: Empty Weight: 18,000 lb (8,165 kg), Maximum Takeoff Weight: 30,500 lb (13,826 kg)
- Engines: Two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW535 turboprop engines, each producing 3,750 horsepower and having a fuel efficiency of approximately 0.35 lb/lb-hr
- Performance: Maximum Speed: Mach 0.85 (647 mph or 1,041 km/h), Range: Approximately 4,800 nm (8,890 km) at 45,000 ft (13,716 m) cruising altitude
- Capacity: Passengers: Up to eight, Cargo: Up to 2,500 lb (1,136 kg), Crew: Two pilots
Design and Features
The Falcon 50 features a unique design with a distinctive bubble-shaped fuselage. This design element provides an expansive cabin interior while also improving visibility for the pilot.
History and Development
- Milestones: First flight in 1984, Certification in 1985, Entry into service in 1986
- Challenges faced during development: Meeting noise regulations, Optimizing performance while minimizing fuel consumption
- Significant upgrades or variants: The Falcon 50EX, a later model that features improved avionics and other enhancements
Operational Use
- Airlines or organizations that operate it: Private companies, government agencies, and corporate clients
- Popular routes or missions: Transcontinental flights within the United States, International trips for business and leisure
- Role in aviation history:
Interesting Facts
- Unique design choices: The distinctive bubble-shaped fuselage provides a spacious cabin interior while also improving pilot visibility
- Famous flights or events: The Falcon 50 has been used for various record-breaking flights, including the fastest transatlantic flight
- Pop culture appearances: The Falcon 50 has appeared in numerous films and television shows, often as a symbol of luxury and exclusivity
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Falcon 50 unique?
The Falcon 50's distinctive bubble-shaped fuselage sets it apart from other aircraft. This design choice provides a spacious cabin interior while also improving pilot visibility.
How much does the Falcon 50 cost?
The estimated price range for a pre-owned or used Falcon 50 is between $2 million and $5 million, depending on the age, condition, and customization of the aircraft. Newer models may be priced higher, with prices ranging from $6 million to $10 million.
What is the range of the Falcon 50?
The Falcon 50 has a range of approximately 4,800 nm (8,890 km) at a cruising altitude of 45,000 ft (13,716 m), making it suitable for long-range flights and international travel.
Which airlines operate the Falcon 50?
Several major airlines and organizations operate the Falcon 50, including private companies, government agencies, and corporate clients. The aircraft is often used for executive transportation, offering a high level of comfort and luxury while in the air.
Is the Falcon 50 still in production?
No, the Falcon 50 is no longer in production. Dassault Aviation has focused on other models, such as the Falcon 7X and Falcon 8X, which offer improved performance and features. However, pre-owned or used Falcon 50s are still available for purchase.