First Flight of Falcon 7X: A Major Step Towards Certification

The Falcon 7X today made its maiden flight from Mérignac airport (France). This flight is an important step for the European certification of the aircraft.
The Falcon 7X is the first business jet equipped with fly-to-wire and side-sticks. The aircraft is also equipped with advanced integrated avionics.
After this first flight, the Falcon will be submitted to intensive testing on its performances, its flight quality, its structural resistance, its systems and its powerplant.
Around 30 experts in total are involved in the certification process of the aircraft. The European Aviation Safety Agency foresees to deliver the Type Certificate around the end of 2006 or the beginning of 2007.