1983 – 1991
Key Facts
- The Dassault Falcon 200 is a midsize business jet that was manufactured from 1983 to 1990.
- It features more powerful engines, increased range, and enhanced performance compared to the Falcon 20 predecessor.
- The Falcon 200 can accommodate 8-10 passengers and has a maximum takeoff weight of 13,000 kg.
- With a cruising speed of Mach 0.8 and a range of over 2,000 km, the Falcon 200 offers impressive capabilities for its class.
- Over 550 Falcon 2000 aircraft have been delivered to date, showcasing the enduring demand for this brand in the private aviation market.
Introduction to the Dassault Falcon 200
The Dassault Falcon 200 is an upgraded version of the Dassault Falcon 20 business jet. It was made by the famous French aerospace company, Dassault Aviation.
It flew for the first time on April 30, 1980, and got certified in June 1981. Production started the next year.
This jet has a low-wing design and a unique tail section. It also has retractable landing gear. Dassault’s military aviation experience shows in its advanced controls and aerodynamics.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| First Flight | April 30, 1980 |
| Certification | June 1981 |
| Production Start | 1982 |
| Total Production | 35 aircraft |
| Delivery Countries | 11 |
Performance Specifications
The Dassault Falcon 200 is known for its outstanding performance. It’s a favorite for luxury aircraft and corporate travel. This jet can climb at 6,000 feet per minute and take off from runways as short as 5,000 feet.
It has a maximum range of 2,000 nautical miles. It can fly at Mach 0.82 with four passengers. This makes it very efficient and great for long trips.
It’s powered by two Garrett ATF3-6A-4C engines, each producing 5,200 pounds of thrust. The Falcon 200 can reach a top speed of Mach 0.88 (862 km/h). Its fuel capacity of 4,180 kg ensures it can go far and stay in the air for a long time.
| Performance Metric | Specification |
|---|---|
| Climb Rate | 6,000 feet per minute |
| Takeoff Distance | 5,000 feet |
| Maximum Range | 2,000 nautical miles |
| Cruise Speed | Mach 0.82 (482 knots) |
| Top Speed | Mach 0.88 (862 km/h) |
| Fuel Capacity | 4,180 kg |
Interior Comfort and Design
The Dassault Falcon 200 has a spacious cabin perfect for those who love luxury in the skies. It’s 23.8 feet long, 5.7 feet high, and 6.1 feet wide. This gives passengers plenty of room to relax.
The cabin can be set up in different ways, like double-club seating or a mix of club seats and divans. This makes it comfortable for everyone.
The Falcon 200’s interior has been updated for better noise reduction and a more luxurious feel. It also has a forward galley and an aft lavatory. These features add to the comfort and convenience of flying privately.
| Cabin Dimensions | Measurements |
|---|---|
| Height | 5.7 ft / 1.88 m |
| Width | 6.1 ft / 2.34 m |
| Length (excluding flight deck and baggage) | 26.2 ft / 7.98 m |
| Volume (excluding flight deck and baggage) | 1,024 ft³ / 29 m³ |
| Baggage Volume | 130.6 ft³ / 3.7 m³ |
The Falcon 200’s cabin can be customized to fit your style. You can choose from high-quality materials for the cabinetry and seats. There are also many entertainment options, like high-definition LCD monitors and Blu-ray/DVD players.
Avionics and Technology
The Dassault Falcon 200 is a business jet that has grown a lot over time. It started with old systems but now has modern electronics. This upgrade has made it safer and better for flying.
Upgrades include new radios, navigation systems, and autopilot. The Falcon 200 also has advanced weather radar. These changes help pilots see better and fly more smoothly. This makes the Falcon 200 a top choice for business travel.
The Falcon 200’s new tech makes flying easier and safer. It’s fast, goes far, and is easy to use. This makes it a favorite among business jet owners and operators.
André Du-pont (Mexico Air Spotters) (GFDL 1.2 or GFDL 1.2), via Wikimedia Commons
Operating Costs
The Dassault Falcon 200 has high direct operating costs, mainly because of its powerful ATF3 engines. The engine restoration costs can be around $1,465.20 per hour. This is more than some other private aviation models. But, the Falcon 200’s lower purchase price helps balance these costs.
The Falcon 200’s engines are maintained on an “On-Condition” basis. Many are also covered by Honeywell’s MSP Gold maintenance program.
This helps manage the costs. The annual operating budget for the Falcon 200 can range from $1.4 million for 200 hours to over $3.2 million for 450 hours plus 200 charter hours.
| Flight Hours per Year | Total Annual Budget | Direct Operating Costs | Fixed Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| 200 | $1,407,444 | $874,704 | $532,740 |
| 300 | $2,767,176 | $1,473,408 | $877,768 |
| 450 + 200 charter | $3,246,770 | $2,638,350 | $608,420 |
Acquisition Costs
For those who love private aviation or need a luxury aircraft for business, the Dassault Falcon 200 is worth considering.
In the early 2020s, a 1987 Falcon 200 in top shape can be bought for about $1.6 million. This is $3 million less than some rivals like the Falcon 50 or Hawker 1000, which cost more than $3 million more.
The Falcon 200’s lower price helps offset its higher running costs. This makes it a good choice for some users. When it was new in 1987, a Falcon 200 cost $7.85 million. The Falcon 50, on the other hand, was priced at $12 million back then.
| Aircraft Model | Acquisition Cost (Pre-Owned) | Acquisition Cost (New) |
|---|---|---|
| Dassault Falcon 200 | ~$1.6 million | $7.85 million (1987) |
| Dassault Falcon 50 | N/A | $12 million (1987) |
| Hawker 1000 | ~$4.6 million | N/A |
The Falcon 200 is a smart buy for those looking for a luxury aircraft. It’s $3 million cheaper than similar models from the same era. Even with higher running costs, the lower initial cost is a big plus for many buyers.
Comparison with Other Jets
The Dassault Falcon 200 has performance that matches bigger, pricier jets in the midsize jet market. It may not beat some rivals in range or speed. But, it shines in key areas, making it a great choice for business travel.
Compared to the Falcon 20, the 200 model has better range, speed, and fuel use. It also matches the Falcon 50 and Hawker 1000 in many ways, but costs less. The Falcon 200 is flexible for both short and medium flights, fitting many travel needs.
| Aircraft Model | Range (nmi) | Max Speed (kts) | Passenger Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dassault Falcon 200 | 3,320 | Mach 0.80 | 8-12 |
| Dassault Falcon 50 | 3,800 | Mach 0.85 | 8-10 |
| Hawker 1000 | 3,150 | Mach 0.83 | 8-13 |
| Gulfstream G550 | 6,750 | Mach 0.92 | 14-19 |
The Falcon 200 may not beat the range and speed of bigger, pricier midsize jets. But, its performance and flexibility make it a top pick for corporate travel. Its balanced features and good price make it a smart choice for those needing a reliable, efficient private jet.
Pros and Cons of the Falcon 200
The Dassault Falcon 200 is a top choice in the luxury aircraft world. It’s known for its high performance and versatility. But, it also has some downsides to think about.
The Falcon 200 shines with its fast climb rate and long range. It has two strong engines, reaching 47,000 ft and flying up to 5,797 km. It can also land on short runways, making it great for business and personal use.
Its strong build and long-lasting airframe are big pluses. Plus, it’s cheaper to buy than some rivals. This makes the Falcon 200 a good pick for those wanting a French-made luxury jet.
But, there are downsides. The Falcon 200 costs a lot to run, mainly because of engine upkeep. Also, finding parts or support can be hard, leading to more downtime and costs.
Its older tech might not excite everyone, either. Modern avionics and cabin features are key for some. The high costs and outdated tech could scare off some buyers.
To wrap up, the Falcon 200 is a solid choice for luxury flying. It’s fast, well-built, and affordable to buy. Yet, its high upkeep costs, maintenance hurdles, and outdated tech might deter some in the luxury jet market.
Conclusion: Is the Falcon 200 Right for You?
The Dassault Falcon 200 might be perfect for those flying 200 to 300 hours yearly. It’s great for those who value performance and don’t mind higher costs for a lower initial price. Its range, speed, and comfort make it ideal for many business trips.
But, buyers should think about the Falcon 200’s long-term costs and support availability. Its annual costs range from $2.8 million for 300 hours to $3.6 million for 450 hours. This is a big financial step.
The Falcon 200 shines with its impressive performance. It can fly at Mach 0.85-0.862 and has a 7,408 km range. This makes it a great choice for many private aviation needs, from executive transport to regional business travel.
Whether the Falcon 200 is right for you depends on your needs, budget, and how you feel about managing higher costs. It’s important to do your research and get advice before deciding if this business jet is for you.
FAQ
What is the Dassault Falcon 200?
The Dassault Falcon 200 is a midsize business jet made by Dassault Aviation from 1983 to 1990. It’s an upgrade of the Falcon 20. It has more powerful engines, better range, and improved performance.
What are the key specifications of the Falcon 200?
The Falcon 200 can carry 8-10 passengers. It has a maximum takeoff weight of 13,000 kg. It flies at Mach 0.8 and can travel over 2,000 km.
How does the Falcon 200 compare to the original Falcon 20?
The Falcon 200 has better performance than the Falcon 20. It has more powerful engines, longer range, and more features. It was made to improve the Falcon 20.
What are the interior features of the Falcon 200?
The Falcon 200’s cabin is 23.8 feet long, 5.7 feet high, and 6.1 feet wide. It has a double-club seating arrangement or a mix of club seats, divans, and individual seats. It also has a forward galley and an aft lavatory.
What avionics and technology are available in the Falcon 200?
Many Falcon 200s have modern electronic systems. These include dual Collins VHF 20 communications, VIR 30 navigation systems, dual DME, dual transponders, Collins AP 105 autopilot, and a Sperry Primus 400 color weather radar.
What are the typical operating costs for the Falcon 200?
The Falcon 200 has high direct operating costs. This is mainly because of its Garrett ATF3 engines. Engine restoration costs are about $1,465.20 per hour, which is higher than some competitors.
How much does a Falcon 200 cost to acquire?
In the early 2020s, a 1987 Falcon 200 can be bought for around $1.6 million. This is a good deal compared to similar aircraft like the Falcon 50 or Hawker 1000.
How does the Falcon 200 compare to other midsize jets?
The Falcon 200 has performance similar to larger, more expensive jets. It can compete with the Falcon 50 and Hawker 1000 in many ways. Despite being cheaper, it’s a good choice for many missions.
What is the market demand for the Falcon 200?
The Falcon 200 still has a strong following among operators and pilots. Its performance, range, and lower cost make it appealing to certain buyers.
What are the pros and cons of the Falcon 200?
The Falcon 200’s advantages include its excellent climb rate, long range, and ability to land on short runways. It’s also cheaper to buy. Disadvantages include high operating costs, mainly for engine maintenance, and older technology in unmodified planes.
Featured Image: Roland Nussbaumer (GFDL or GFDL), via Wikimedia Commons
