Dassault Aviation, a French manufacturer of military aircraft and business jets, has officially committed to using SAF (sustainable aviation fuel) for its company-owned Falcon aircraft.
The use of SAF at the completion facility in Little Rock, Arkansas, is part of the SAF plan implemented by Dassault to reduce the carbon footprint of its aviation operations. Under this plan, all flights operated by company-owned Falcon aircraft, whether for business, transport, or Falcon support, are using SAF blends.
SAF offers carbon emission reductions of 80 to 90% compared to conventional jet fuel when used in its concentrated form. At the moment, all Falcon aircraft are certified to use up to 50% SAF blends.
The new Falcon 10X ultra-long-range twin will be compatible with a 100% SAF blend from entry into service. It will boast a top speed of Mach 0.925 (685.5 mph) and cover 7,500 nautical miles (13,890 km). It is powered by two Rolls-Royce Pearl 10X engines with over 80 kN (18,000 lbf) thrust.
Although the business aviation industry accounts for just a tiny proportion of worldwide CO2 emissions, it is helping lead the way in decarbonization, aiming for net zero emissions by 2050. SAF is currently the most promising contribution to meet this target.
