Dassault Envoy IV CC.1

The Dassault Falcon series is a collection of small and medium-size business jets that it has been producing since the mid-1960s. The Falcon series has blended a luxurious cabin with technology derived from classic French fighter aircraft to produce a fast and long-ranged platform with excellent flight characteristics. The Falcon 900 first flew in 1984 and is equipped with three jet engines, this version of the Falcon has become popular for its long range and low running costs compared to competitors. The type has also been popular with militaries and governments around the world as a VIP transport, Japan also uses a specialist version for maritime patrol. The latest version known as the 900LX is the longest-range version yet to have been produced and features blended winglets to increase efficiency.

The Falcon 900LX was chosen by the RAF to replace the BAe146 as the UK’s primary VIP and Command air transport fleet. A pair of aircraft were acquired and were designated as the Envoy IV CC1, entering service in 2022. The aircraft are owned by the RAF but for the time being are civilian registered and operated on a commercial basis with a mix of military and civilian crews. This will eventually transition to an entirely military operation and military registrations on the aircraft.

Making its long-awaited RIAT debut, the RAF will be sending an Envoy IV CC1 for static display at RIAT25.

Photo Credit: Crown Copyright