Dassault Falcon 900B

Overview & History

The 900B was produced from 1985 to 2000 by Dassault Aviation, a French aerospace company with a long-standing reputation for designing and manufacturing high-performance, reliable aircraft. 

The journey of the Falcon 900B’s development is just as noteworthy as its performance.

The original Falcon 900 was a development of the Falcon 50, which was itself an evolution of the earlier Falcon 20.

What Dassault did was increase the length of the 900 over the 50 model by 5.5 feet, along with giving it a taller tail, longer wing, and larger fuel tank. 

Other aircraft in the 900 series include the Falcon 900C, Falcon 900DX, Falcon 900EX, Falcon 900EX EASy, and the Falcon 900LX. 

Earlier production 900s can be retrofitted to 900B standard.

Dassault Falcon 900B Performance

Let’s explore the performance capabilities of the Dassault Falcon 900B. It is powered by three Honeywell TFE731-5BR-1C turbofan engines.

These engines provide a remarkable thrust output of 14,250 lbs (6,464 kg), propelling the Falcon 900B to impressive speeds and altitudes.

When pushed to its limits, the aircraft can reach a high-speed cruise of 500 knots (926 km/h), while its long-range cruise speed stands at a steady 428 knots (793 km/h).

For a corporate jet of this era, the speeds are up to modern-day standards. 

Reaching for the skies, the Falcon 900B can climb to a maximum altitude of 51,000 feet (15,545 meters), offering a birds-eye view of the world below while cruising above turbulent weather.

Among its other stellar performance figures, it boasts a range of 4,000 nautical miles (7,408 kilometers), enabling long-distance, intercontinental flights with ease.

As a testament to its excellent ground performance, the Falcon 900B has a takeoff distance of 5,200 feet (1,585 meters), making it quite versatile for different airport conditions.

After traversing the skies, it lands gracefully requiring a minimum runway length of 2,200 feet (670 meters) in order to land, demonstrating its refined control mechanisms.

Please note, that these performance figures represent optimal conditions and best-case scenarios.

Real-world range and performance on the ground can be influenced by numerous factors, including but not limited to weather conditions, load, and fuel efficiency.

Interior and Cabin Dimensions

On the inside, this Falcon jet cabin measures 39 feet (11.9 meters) in length and 7.7 feet (2.3 meters) in width, resulting in the cabin providing ample space for business or leisure travel.

With a full stand-up height of 6.2 feet (1.9 meters), movement within the cabin is effortless and comfortable.

The aircraft boasts the capacity to accommodate up to 19 passengers at maximum; however, it typically seats 12 passengers for an optimal blend of comfort and relaxation.

More often than not, most configurations will be set up for 8-12 passengers. 

The 900B’s cabin layout features thoughtful design elements catering to various needs.

Immediately upon entry, a fully equipped galley awaits, offering comprehensive catering facilities. Opposite the galley, a compact yet functional closet provides space for personal belongings.

Moving further into the cabin, a club-four seating configuration with folding sidewall tables invites passengers to engage in conversation or simply unwind.

Adjacent to this, four additional seats surround a convertible hi-lo conference table, providing a perfect setting for in-flight meetings or dining.

Further enhancing the luxurious experience, a three-place, side-facing divan with a breathable top across the aisle from an executive workstation offers an ideal space for relaxation or sleep.

A private, full-sized lavatory and yet another wardrobe closet are located at the far end of the cabin, ensuring privacy and convenience.

Through the lavatory, passengers can access a heated baggage compartment with a capacity of 127 cubic feet, accessible in flight for any mid-journey necessities. The external baggage door incorporates a cleverly designed step for easy loading.

The Falcon 900B maintains a sea-level cabin altitude until 25,300 feet (7,700 meters), and a maximum cabin altitude of 8,000 feet (2,400 meters).

These features ensure passengers’ comfort throughout the journey, mitigating the effects of altitude and enabling a more enjoyable flight experience. 

Cockpit of the Dassault Falcon 900B

Dassault opted for a Honeywell SPZ 8000 flight director and autopilot system, paired with an EFIS (Electronic Flight Instrument System).

This combination delivers a seamless flying experience and lends a helping hand to pilots during flights.

Moreover, the aircraft features dual Honeywell FMZ 605 flight management systems and laser inertial platforms, providing exceptional navigational support.

Alongside, the Falcon 900B is equipped with AZ 810 air data computers and Collins Pro Line ARINC 429-series communication and navigation receivers, ensuring accurate flight data and communications.

Charter Cost of the Dassault Falcon 900B

The cost to charter a Dassault Falcon 900B can significantly vary with an estimated average cost of $5,600 per hour in North America.

However, this baseline price is subject to change, influenced by a myriad of factors. These include the travel distance, length of the charter, regional pricing differences, and the time of the year.

Operational costs, such as fuel and maintenance, play a critical role as well. Furthermore, the specific charter company and its pricing structure can also affect the cost.

It’s essential to bear these factors in mind when planning to charter a Falcon 900B, as they can substantially affect the overall cost.

Aircraft Purchase Cost

When first introduced to the market, the Dassault Falcon 900B carried a price tag of $26 million.

Today, the market for pre-owned Falcon 900B jets presents a more affordable avenue for potential buyers.

On average, you can expect to pay around $3.4 million for a pre-owned model. 

However, the initial purchase price is only part of the financial equation. Prospective owners should also account for the cost of upkeep.

Flying about 200 hours per year, the estimated annual ownership cost for the Falcon 900B is around $958,000.

This includes expenses tied to maintenance, insurance, and fuel, among other operational costs.