Dassault Aviation, headquartered in Saint-Cloud, France, is a global symbol of technological excellence, craftsmanship, and innovation in both defense and business aviation. Founded in 1929 by Marcel Dassault, the company has built a reputation for engineering precision and avant-garde design. While Dassault first gained renown through its fighter aircraft for the French military—including the Mirage and Rafale—its Falcon business jet division has become a cornerstone of the company’s identity, delivering aircraft that combine performance, efficiency, and refined elegance.

The Falcon Legacy

The Falcon family was inaugurated in 1963 with the Falcon 20, a sleek twin-engine jet that quickly gained international recognition and was even operated by FedEx in its early cargo operations. This milestone marked Dassault’s entry into business aviation, a field in which it has since become a major force. Over the decades, Dassault has introduced a series of Falcon models—among them the Falcon 50, 900, and 2000—that established benchmarks for comfort, reliability, and versatility.

Innovation in Design and Technology

A defining feature of Dassault’s approach is the transfer of advanced military technology into its business jets. Fly-by-wire systems, digital flight controls, and aerodynamic innovations first developed for the Mirage and Rafale fighters have been successfully adapted to Falcons, offering pilots superior control and passengers smoother rides. Dassault jets are renowned for their ability to operate from shorter runways, increasing access to smaller airports and enhancing point-to-point efficiency for executives and corporations.

The Current Falcon Portfolio

Dassault’s current portfolio reflects a blend of tradition and forward-looking innovation. The Falcon 8X, introduced in 2016, offers intercontinental range, unmatched cabin quietness, and extensive customization. The new Falcon 6X, entered service in 2025, is the industry’s first ultra-widebody business jet, featuring a cabin height of 6.5 feet and a width of 8.6 feet, delivering unmatched comfort on long flights. Meanwhile, the flagship Falcon 10X, in development, is expected to redefine the ultra-long-range category, with a 7,500-nautical-mile range and an interior rivaling the luxury of top residences and yachts.

Sustainability and the Future

Dassault Aviation has placed strong emphasis on sustainability. The company is fully committed to integrating sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) into operations and optimizing the efficiency of its designs. The Falcon family consistently leads the industry in fuel efficiency thanks to its aerodynamic wing designs, lighter structures, and lower operating costs compared to many competitors in the large-cabin segment.

Craftsmanship and Global Reach

Every Falcon aircraft is a product of meticulous French craftsmanship. Dassault combines advanced digital design tools with artisanal expertise, ensuring aircraft meet the highest standards of performance and refinement. With a worldwide service network, Dassault ensures comprehensive support for its global customer base, offering maintenance, upgrades, and around-the-clock assistance.

A Vision Rooted in Excellence

From the Falcon 20 of the 1960s to the forthcoming Falcon 10X, Dassault Aviation has remained committed to building aircraft that embody efficiency, elegance, and advanced technology. By combining its dual heritage of fighter jet innovation and luxury business aviation, Dassault continues to shape the future of private aviation—offering discerning clients, aircraft that are not only tools of global mobility, but also expressions of French excellence and vision.