Story ID: 548DassaultFalconLXS
Falcon 2000LXS Will Be More Flexible
By: Mark Huber
Caption: 
Word Count: 382
Dassault has introduced yet another new version of its popular Falcon 2000 super-midsize twinjet. The 2000LXS combines the range and amenities of the Falcon 2000LX with the short field capabilities of the Falcon 2000S.

The new aircraft, announced in late October, is expected to cost $500,000 more than the 2000LX (that is, approximately $32.8 million) and complete certification in 2014 when it will replace the LX. According to the French manufacturer, the first year of production is already sold out for the new model.

As on the 2000S, the LXS features forward edge wing slats to reduce Vref speeds and takeoff and landing distances. Preliminary estimates indicate the new Falcon will require a takeoff balanced field length of 4,675 feet at maximum takeoff weight (mtow), a landing distance of 2,300 feet, and a Vref of 107 knots. This represents a substantial difference from the performance of the existing LX (5,750 feet, 2730 feet and 116 knots, respectively).

However, unlike the 2000S, the LXS does so without compromising range or payload. Dassault engineers found ways to remove 300 pounds from the wing structure, even with the addition of winglets, and 100 pounds from the cabin interior. Consequently, they estimate with full fuel the LXS will still have a six-passenger range of 4,000 nm, an mtow of 42,800 pounds and a maximum payload of 2,190 pounds. Possible city pairs include Dubai to Singapore and Mumbai to Beijing.

The LXS is powered by a pair of 7,000-pound-thrust Pratt & Whitney Canada PW308C engines fitted with Talon II combusters that cut nitrous oxide emissions by 20 percent without any power penalty. The engines will generate 40 percent less emissions than ICAO’s CAEP/6 standards, according to Dassault.

The 2000LXS’s cabin also includes a variety of improvements including better soundproofing that reduces noise by two decibels, as well as the new Rockwell Collins FalconCabin HD+ cabin management system with HD viewing on monitors up to 22 inches and functions that can be controlled wirelessly from anywhere in the aircraft via Apple iOS devices. A dedicated application allows passengers to control entertainment, window shades, lighting and temperature.

The Aircell Axxess II satellite communications system is standard on the aircraft. The LXS will be delivered with a restyled cockpit that includes the Honeywell Primus Epic-based EASy II avionics system.