When it comes to business jets, few names command the same prestige as Dassault Aviation’s Falcon family. For decades, their sleek, trijet marvels have redefined the skies with performance, comfort, and cutting-edge technology. But if you’re wondering which trijet Falcon rules the skies, it’s a showdown between the legendary Falcon 7X and its evolutionary successor, the Falcon 8X.

So sit back, relax and let’s explore what makes these two class-leading aircraft stand out—and why the Falcon 8X might just be the ultimate trijet marvel.

A Heritage of Aviation Excellence

Dassault Aviation is more than just an aircraft manufacturer; it’s an aviation icon. Founded in 1929 and still family-owned, Dassault has built everything from the cutting-edge Rafale fighter jets to some of the most luxurious business aircraft. The Falcon brand, launched in the 1960s, quickly became synonymous with high-performance, ultra-luxurious flying.

A Falcon Jet doesn’t just get you to your destination. The integration of their military heritage, performance and design is found all throughout their business jet lineup ensuring the journey itself is nothing less than unforgettable. 

The Falcon 7X: A Proven Global Performer

The Falcon 7X is already a marvel of aviation engineering. With a maximum range of 5,950 nautical miles, it connects major city pairs with ease- New York to Paris or Los Angeles to London and beyond. Its trijet configuration isn’t just for show—it delivers unbeatable short-field performance, giving you access to airports that are just not possible for other aircraft.

Inside, the 7X’s cabin is all about balance: comfort, space, and Dassault’s signature French flair. It’s a superb choice for those who crave long-range performance, short field capability, exceptional cabin comfort and niche operational metrics no other aircraft can match. 

The Falcon 8X: An Evolution in the Skies

Now, let’s talk about the Falcon 8X, Dassault’s next-level trijet flagship. It takes everything exceptional about the 7X and turns the volume up to eleven.

For starters, it stretches the fuselage by 3.6 feet (1.1 meters) , an increase of 10% cabin volume over the 7X. This gives passengers a spacious, ultra-customizable cabin with new interior options not available on the 7X. Think of it as the ultimate in-flight penthouse suite complete with options like the Falcon Privacy Suite, redesigned seats that convert into 80-inch beds, and even an optional shower in the aft lavatory for a spa-like finish to your long-haul mission. Beyond the tactile improvements, the 8X dials back cabin noise from the already superior 7X sound levels. On average the 8X is 3 dB SIL quieter in the main cabin than its predecessor. Although this doesn’t sound like much, with the increased range, you’ll appreciate the subtle improvement. 

But it’s not all just about luxury. The 8X ups the ante by 500 nautical miles with a maximum range of 6,450 nautical miles, enough to link Los Angeles to Beijing or London to Cape Town nonstop. Dassault achieved this by refining aerodynamics with an optimized wing design and newly engineered winglets. These improvements provide  a superior lift to drag ratio and improved low speed handling. They also upgraded the engines to the whisper-quiet, fuel-sipping Pratt & Whitney PW307D powerplants. The combination of aerodynamic improvements and more efficient engines reflect Dassault’s commitment to lower emissions and more sustainable operations.  

Flying Smarter with Cutting-Edge Technology

Both the Falcon 7X and 8X are equipped with Dassault’s advanced flight control systems, including the FalconEye Head-Up Display featuring Combined Vision System (CVS) which merges synthetic and enhanced vision to give pilots crystal-clear visibility in virtually any conditions. But the 8X takes it a step further with the latest EASy IV avionics suite. Complete with 3D airport maps, graphical flight planning, and ultra-responsive smart side stick fly-by-wire Digital Flight Control System (DFCS). Additionally, enhanced datalink communications and Runway Overrun Awareness & Alerting System (ROAAS) improve pilot situational awareness improving safety, efficiency and overall precision of mission execution. 

And for those who like to work or relax in style utilizing cutting edge technology, the 8X’s new Ambiance cabin management system turns your Apple or Android phone into a command center. The app-based interface allows control of lighting, temperature, and entertainment with just a tap of a finger. With additional Bluetooth connectivity, passengers can enjoy entertainment through wireless headsets for the ultra-immersive experience. Everything you need is seamlessly integrated and conveniently accessible via your phone or tablet.  

A Close Contest in Costs

Here’s where things get very interesting: despite the 8X’s larger footprint, longer range and increased performance, the direct operating costs remain nearly identical to the 7X. That means you can fly farther, faster, and in greater comfort without seeing your operating expenses drastically fluctuate. Clients can future proof their operations with the latest advancements in technology and performance while maintaining nearly the same operational budgets as the 7X. In today’s market, this alone is a serious competitive advantage.

jetAVIVA: Your Guide to all things Falcon

At jetAVIVA, we pride ourselves on delivering more than just aircraft, we deliver expertise. Our team includes some of the most experienced Falcon specialists in the industry, ready to guide you through every step of ownership.

Leading the charge is Ben Dow, jetAVIVA’s Senior Managing Director and a recognized expert in the Falcon series. With well over 100 successful transactions and 15 years of hands-on experience, Ben brings insight and precision to every client interaction—from classic Falcon 50s to the latest 10X.

The Bottom Line: Which Falcon Soars for You?

In the end, choosing between the Falcon 7X and 8X comes down to your mission profile and overall operational goals. If you’re looking for world-class performance, wrapped in elegant style, the 7X is a proven champion. But if your travel demands stretch across oceans and continents, and you want the absolute pinnacle of Dassault luxury, performance and cutting-edge technology, the Falcon 8X may be the right move.

Whichever you choose, you’re not just selecting a jet, you’re joining an elite group of owners and operators that champion performance, innovation and safety above all.

Ready to elevate your journey? Like we say, Life is Short. Fly a Jet or in this case, let’s fly a Falcon Jet! 

Connect with Ben Dow to learn more about the Falcon Jet ownership opportunities at [email protected].