French Air Force Upgrades VIP Fleet with Falcon 900EX

The French Air Force (Armée de l’Air) has initiated the phase-out of its two Falcon 2000LX jets used for state VIP transport, marking a significant upgrade in its military aviation fleet. As part of this transition, the Air Force introduced its first Falcon 900EX EASy jet in December 2024, according to data from ch-aviation research.

The newly inducted Falcon 900EX EASy, designated F-RAFS (msn 145), began operations on December 6, 2024, under the ‘CTM’ code for France’s Military Air Transport Command (Commandement de Transport Aérien Militaire Français – COTAM). This aircraft, now stationed at Paris Villacoublay-Velizy, underwent extensive modifications over two years by Jet Aviation in Basel/Mulhouse/Freiburg, Switzerland, ensuring it meets the rigorous standards required for state VIP transport.

The 19.7-year-old Falcon 900EX EASy has a notable history. Originally operated by Dassault Aviation from 2005 to 2018, it later joined Luxaviation Portugal’s fleet. In 2022, the jet was re-registered in the Isle of Man as M-JAFR for refurbishment by Jet Aviation France, highlighting its transformation into a state-of-the-art VIP transport aircraft.

This Falcon 900EX EASy is the first of two such jets set to replace the aging Falcon 2000LX fleet, which averages 13 years in service. F-RAFS directly replaces Falcon 2000LX F-RAFD (msn 237), retired in September 2024 and now parked at Paris Le Bourget Airport. The second Falcon 2000LX, F-RAFC (msn 231), is scheduled for withdrawal in early 2025, completing the phase-out process.

Currently, Jet Aviation France owns a 16.5-year-old Falcon 900EX EASy, M-AFAJ (msn 200), which remains parked at Basel Airport. The introduction of the Falcon 900EX EASy into the French Air Force’s fleet underscores the country’s commitment to modernizing its military transport capabilities, ensuring enhanced performance, reliability, and comfort for state officials and dignitaries.

This fleet modernization is part of the French Ministry of the Armed Forces’ multi-year action plan for 2024-2028. The plan aims to standardize the fleet operated by Transport Squadron 60 for government use, involving the sale of older aircraft and the acquisition of newer models. The target fleet composition includes two Falcon 900(M)s, two Falcon 900EX EASy, two Falcon 7X, and one A330-200, ensuring a versatile and efficient air transport capability for various government and military needs.

Alastair Willson, CEO of Ascend Airways UK, commented on the upgrade, “This aircraft aligns perfectly with our strategy of offering the latest technology and most fuel-efficient aircraft to customers. The MAX 8 reduces CO2 emissions by 20% and has a 40% lower noise footprint compared to previous-generation aircraft. This enables our customers to reduce the environmental impact when adding capacity.” While Willson’s statement primarily addresses Ascend Airways, the sentiments resonate with the French Air Force’s focus on sustainability and efficiency in their fleet upgrades.

The French Air Force’s move to replace the Falcon 2000LX jets with Falcon 900EX EASy models reflects broader trends in military aviation towards more advanced, reliable, and environmentally friendly aircraft. By investing in these newer jets, the French government ensures that its VIP transport services remain secure, efficient, and capable of meeting the demands of modern state operations.

As the French Air Force continues to implement its 2024-2028 action plan, the integration of the Falcon 900EX EASy will play a crucial role in maintaining the high standards of service and operational excellence expected from the nation’s premier military transport units. This strategic upgrade not only enhances the capabilities of the French Air Force but also reinforces France’s position as a leader in military aviation technology.

The French Air Force’s introduction of the Falcon 900EX EASy marks a pivotal step in modernizing its VIP transport fleet. This transition from the older Falcon 2000LX jets to the more advanced Falcon 900EX EASy ensures enhanced performance, sustainability, and reliability, aligning with the strategic objectives of the French Ministry of the Armed Forces. As the fleet continues to evolve, the French Air Force remains committed to providing top-tier air transport services for state officials and dignitaries, upholding its legacy of excellence in military aviation.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com