Dassault Aviation Celebrates Grand Opening of Melbourne Facility

Major Milestone in U.S. MRO Capacity and Global Support Network

Melbourne, Florida – (October 14, 2025) — Dassault Falcon Jet, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Dassault Aviation, today marked the opening of a major new maintenance facility at Melbourne Orlando International Airport (KMLB). This facility represents a significant expansion of Dassault’s presence in the Americas and reflects the company’s long-term commitment to customer support, operational excellence, and regional investment. It is one of the recent additions to Dassault Aviation’s global maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) network.

“Our state-of-the-art Melbourne MRO is the latest expansion of our worldwide network of more than 40 service locations. It adds significant capacity in the Americas and puts more service capability closer to our Falcon customers. Dassault already has a large footprint in the United States which includes 2,500 employees, aircraft completions and sales,” said Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation.

“This new center reflects our belief in the U.S. market and the future of aerospace in Florida. The region is already home to many key industry players, a supportive business environment, and—most importantly—a highly skilled workforce. Our employees are at the heart of everything we achieve. Their dedication, expertise, and passion for aviation are what make our aircraft and our customer service second to none,” Trappier finished.

“Florida is proud to welcome Dassault Aviation’s new facility in Melbourne, which strengthens our state’s role as a global leader in aerospace and advanced manufacturing. Dassault’s investment is a testament to Florida’s skilled workforce, pro-business environment and commitment to innovation. This new service center will create high-quality jobs, expand opportunities for Floridians and ensure that our state continues to be at the forefront of aviation excellence”, said Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.

Intended to serve customers across North and South America and beyond, the 250,000 square-foot complex can accommodate all current Falcon models (including the in-development, ultra-long-range Falcon 10X, the largest purpose-built business jet). It is capable of performing major maintenance and modifications on up to 14 Falcon aircraft simultaneously.

The Melbourne facility can handle a full range of inspection, repair, and overhaul activities, from line maintenance through C-checks, as well as engineering and modification services. It is equipped with workshops, customer offices, and lounges. Additionally, the site is home to a new state-of-the-art 54,000 square-foot paint shop.

Melbourne is just the latest in a series of moves to extend and reinforce Dassault Aviation’s global MRO footprint. In 2024, a new facility at São Paulo Catarina Executive Airport in Brazil opened to support Falcons in Latin America. In 2023, the company’s ExecuJet MRO Services unit opened a new heavy maintenance facility in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. In 2024, a new heavy maintenance facility in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, was opened to enhance maintenance offerings in the Eastern Hemisphere. The company now has over 60 service locations worldwide, including factory-owned and authorized facilities.

CESSNA CITATION CJ3 GEN2 ACHIEVES FAA TYPE CERTIFICATION, BRINGING THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE GEN2 ENHANCEMENTS TO MARKET

LAS VEGAS (Oct. 13, 2025) – Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced the Cessna Citation CJ3 Gen2 has achieved Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) type certification, bringing the most comprehensive Citation Gen2 investment to market. Based on customer feedback, enhancements throughout the aircraft include Garmin autothrottle technology, an additional 4.5 inches of legroom for pilots and a fully customizable cabin environment. After completing 445 flight test hours, the light jet is expected to enter into service this year.
“FAA certification of the CJ3 Gen2 is an example of Textron Aviation’s leadership in certifying aircraft,” said Chris Hearne, senior vice president, Engineering & Programs. “This aircraft delivers proven performance, cutting-edge technology and an unparalleled cabin experience, supporting customers missions whether it be for relaxation, innovation or productivity.”

The light jet features a trusted avionics system with Garmin G3000 software and hardware, including:
Garmin Autothrottles to reduce pilot workload and provide flight-envelope protection
Optional Enhanced Vision System (EVS) to provide improved clarity and optimized situational awareness
Intuitive touch screen interface
GDL60 for aircraft connectivity, including remote transmission of flight plans, automatic database updates, as well as wireless transmission of aircraft diagnostic data
Passengers can experience a fully customizable luxury interior that allows them to create the ideal cabin environment for their specific mission. Comfort abounds in the cabin, with seats designed with tracking capability on the base and floor and optional swivel functionality. New RGB accent lighting allows customers to further personalize the cabin environment, and USB-C power at every seat and wireless charging in the main cabin allow productivity and entertainment to continue while in flight. The aircraft also features an optional high-power outlet for a coffee machine, ice and trash storage, and the incorporation of a cabin master control switch panel.
In addition, new CoolView skylights in the lavatory bring natural light into the space and highlight other features such as a new optional sink and vanity design with a dedicated water supply. For added convenience, the CJ3 Gen2 includes an externally serviceable lavatory.

With a maximum range of 2,040 nm, a useful payload of 5,530 pounds and superior field performance, the CJ3 Gen2 enables pilots to achieve a variety of missions. The Citation CJ3 Gen2 offers standard seating for nine passengers, with an option for eight passengers with additional storage. 

CESSNA CITATION ASCEND MAKES WORLD DEBUT AT NBAA-BACE IN LAS VEGAS

LAS VEGAS (Oct. 13, 2025) – The Cessna Citation Ascend landed today at Henderson Executive Airport in Las Vegas, marking its world debut at the 2025 National Business Aviation Association Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE). The aircraft, which flew to the show using sustainable aviation fuel, will be on display Tuesday, October 14 and Wednesday, October 15 alongside other industry-leading Cessna Citation business jets.

The Cessna Citation Ascend is designed and manufactured by Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company.

“We asked our customers what they wanted in this iconic aircraft, and our teams worked to bring their vision for the Citation Ascend to life,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president, Sales & Marketing. “With the aircraft making its debut at NBAA-BACE, visitors can see the new Garmin G5000 cockpit and experience the sleek new interior features including a flat floor, larger windows and wireless cabin management system.”

Currently under development, the aircraft recently achieved a major milestone as the first production unit rolled out of the factory. Textron Aviation expects the aircraft to enter into service later this year following certification from the Federal Aviation Administration.

With more than 1,000 Cessna Citation 560XL series aircraft delivered since 2000, owners and operators appreciate the aircraft for its unparalleled combination of performance, comfort, ease of operation, range of mission capabilities and favorable operating efficiencies.
Textron Aviation’s static display (AC_08) at Henderson Executive Airport will feature:
The flagship Cessna Citation Longitude super-midsize business jet
The best-selling midsize business jet, Cessna Citation Latitude
The Cessna Citation Ascend featuring Gogo’s Galileo HDX optional connectivity solution
The Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen2
And the Cessna Citation CJ3 Gen3 mockup

 

 

THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA SELECTS L3HARRIS FOR AIRBORNE EARLY WARNING AND CONTROL AIRCRAFT PROGRAM

L3Harris Technologies (NYSE: LHX) has received a contract to deliver modified Bombardier Global 6500 airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft to the Republic of Korea Air Force. L3Harris is partnering with Bombardier, Israel Aerospace Industries’ ELTA Systems and Korean Air to provide this advanced capability. The program is valued at more than $2.26 billion.

These aircraft will fly faster and operate longer to improve the nation’s mission readiness. They will also cruise at higher altitudes for improved safety and provide combat-proven radar coverage to more quickly detect and track threats. The communications suite will provide interoperability with the United States, NATO and coalition partners, creating a networked battlespace with fifth-generation aircraft and beyond.

“L3Harris is ready to deliver an advanced aircraft fleet that will strengthen mission effectiveness for a key American ally in the Indo-Pacific region,” said Christopher Kubasik, Chair and CEO, L3Harris. “We look forward to collaborating with the Republic of Korea to develop, test, integrate and sustain this vital capability for years to come.”

“We are extremely pleased that the Bombardier Global 6500 will help the Republic of Korea Air Force defend its borders with L3Harris’ solution,” said Éric Martel, President and CEO, Bombardier. “Amid rising geopolitical tensions, this aircraft is the go-to choice for governments seeking to modernize their capabilities, with the reliability and performance to support the most demanding missions.”

“This team brings together world-class, field-proven capabilities to deliver an AEW&C solution for the Republic of Korea,” said Boaz Levy, President and CEO, IAI. “Our team’s strategic special mission aircraft integrates innovative solutions and proven expertise, such as sensor miniaturization and advanced AESA radar technology, coupled with advanced detection and classification capabilities that enable success even in the most challenging missions.”

“Throughout this collaboration, Korean Air will strengthen its capabilities in modification, integration and maintenance for the latest special mission aircraft,” said Jin Kyu Lim, Head of Aerospace Division, Korean Air. “As a leader in the domestic aerospace industry, we are committed to building a robust special mission aircraft sector and contributing to the nation’s defense capabilities.”

In addition to supporting aircraft deliveries, Korean industry will take the lead in operating and maintaining the program, including meeting any future manufacturing requirements.

 

German Armed Forces Receives First PC-12

Pilatus has handed over a PC-12 to the Technical and Airworthiness Center for Aircraft and Aeronautical Equipment of the German Armed Forces (WTD 61). This versatile single-engine turboprop will be stationed at the Ingolstadt/Manching air base in Germany, where it will be used for training test pilots and transporting personnel and material.

Cost-effective to operate and flexible in use, the PC-12 will provide the German Armed Forces with a high-performance aircraft which will considerably strengthen the service’s operational readiness. With its reputation as a reliable and thoroughly proven platform in both civilian and military aviation, the PC-12 will now support standardization training for the test pilots of the German Armed Forces, as well as logistical transport operations.

Barbara Reinhold, Director of WTD 61, explains the importance of the new aircraft for the German Armed Forces: “The PC-12 will help us to perform our training and transport tasks efficiently and safely.”

Ioannis Papachristofilou, Vice President Government Aviation at Pilatus, comments: “We are convinced that the outstanding versatility, modern avionics and proven reliability of the PC-12 make it optimally suited to meet the requirements of the German Armed Forces. The PC-12 is set to make a major contribution to the performance of challenging tasks.”

The handover marks the start of a promising partnership between Pilatus and the German Armed Forces, in which the provision of technical and logistical support will provide the foundation for long-term success over the coming years. Pilatus is delighted to be able to add this highly professional operator to its customer portfolio.

Pilatus

GULFSTREAM FLEET SURPASSES 3 MILLION NAUTICAL MILES FLOWN ON SUSTAINABLE AVIATION FUEL

Next-Generation Aircraft Arrive at 2025 NBAA-BACE on SAF
 
SAVANNAH, Ga., 2025 — Gulfstream AerospaceCorp. today announced its Meet of corporate, demonstration and support aircraft has surpassed 3 million nautical miles Mown on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) blends. 

In addition, the Gulfstream G800, Gulfstream G700, Gulfstream G600 and Gulfstream G400 Mew to this week’s 2025 NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) in Las Vegas
using SAF blends. 

Those aircraft and a mock-up of the newly announced Gulfstream G300 will be on display during the
exhibition.

“Flying more than 3 million nautical miles on SAF blends is a testament to our commitment to sourcing and demonstrating the beneBts of SAF,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream.

 “We have long been at the forefront of sustainability innovations, and this latest milestone further showcases our leadership and ecorts to advance business aviation’s overarching sustainability goals.”

Gulfstream continues to maintain a strong supply of SAF at its Savannah headquarters and plans to increase its usage by nearly 50% this year compared to last year.

Gulfstream has long been a sustainability leader in business aviation, achieving numerous accomplishments by partnering with fuel developers and engine manufacturers. 

The company was the Brst original equipment manufacturer (OEM) to My on 100% neat SAF and was also the Brst OEM to receive National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) Sustainable Flight Department Accreditations in all four available categories: Might, operations, ground support and infrastructure. 

In 2023, Gulfstream made the world's Brst trans-Atlantic Might using 100% SAF comprised of 100% Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids (neat HEFA) in both engines, and in 2024, successfully completed ground emissions testing of 100% neat SAF containing zero sulfur.

BOMBARDIER UNVEILS COMLUX AS GLOBAL 8000 AIRCRAFT BOMBARDIER UNVEILS COMLUX AS GLOBAL 8000 AIRCRAFT BOMBARDIER UNVEILS COMLUX AS GLOBAL 8000 AIRCRAFT CUSTOMER, DELIVERY CONFIRMED FOR 2026

The firm order for one Global 8000 aircraft was announced during NBAA-BACE 2025

Comlux will elevate its ultra-long-range charter capabilities with Bombardier’s flagship aircraft, delivering unmatched performance and refined passenger experience

Set to enter into service this year, the Global 8000 (1) is the fastest business jet in the world, offering the longest range in its class and the ability to operate from short runways

Bombardier is proud to announce that Comlux, a leading business aviation company, will take delivery of the industry-defining Global 8000 (1) aircraft in 2026. 

Renowned for its expertise in long-range operations with aircraft such as the Bombardier Global 6000 and Global 6500 , Comlux is strategically enhancing its charter offering with Bombardier’s flagship jet. With its industry-leading ultra-long-range capabilities and top speed, the Bombardier Global 8000 aircraft is the ideal complement to Comlux Aviation’s fleet—delivering exceptional performance, comfort, and efficiency for premium global travel.

“The Bombardier Global 8000 aircraft integrates perfectly into our long-range fleet, in between our wide-body fleet and our Global 6500 fleet,” said Comlux Aviation CEO, Andrea Zanetto. 

He continues: “At Comlux, we offer comfort in ownership and luxury in flight! We have built our reputation on delivering premium global travel solutions and this aircraft allows us to offer ultra-long-range. 

Comlux continuously elevates its fleet to offer clients an unmatched charter experience across the globe
with a diversified fleet. The delivery of the Global 8000 will mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter, as we continue to The Global 8000 (1), the world’s fastest purpose-built business jet, represents a new era of performance, comfort and innovation. 

 

With its unmatched speed and a range of 8,000 nautical miles, the aircraft is designed to meet the needs of the most discerning travelers—delivering seamless connectivity between global cities with exceptional onboard luxury.

Comlux’s upcoming delivery marks a significant milestone in the continued adoption of the Bombardier Global 8000 jet by leading operators worldwide. 

The aircraft’s advanced technology and refined cabin experience make it a standout choice for those seeking the ultimate in private aviation.