Inside the $60 Million Dassault Falcon 8X: Luxury in the Air

Stepping into the Dassault Falcon 8X, luxury greets you at every turn. This opulent private jet, often chosen by high-profile individuals like Formula 1's Max Verstappen, offers a flying experience unlike any other.

Ownership and Costs

Purchasing one of these flying palaces sets back buyers approximately $60 million, though the final price hinges on how it's outfitted. Meanwhile, those eager to experience its luxury, without the long-term commitment, can rent it for $14,000 per hour.

Remarkably, its roster of owners isn't limited to just Max Verstappen; pop icon Taylor Swift also enjoys a Dassault, albeit the slightly smaller Falcon 7X.

A Closer Look at the Air Charter Expo

During a visit to the Air Charter Expo held at London Biggin Hill, an airport celebrated for managing private jets, Business Insider got an all-access look at this luxury aircraft where lines stretched longest for the Falcon 8X display.

Jet Engine and Efficiency

Blessed with three engines, a rarity today, the Falcon 8X boasts a travel range of up to 7,400 miles, ideal for traversing routes like London to Singapore. Despite advancements in twin-engine tech, Dassault has retained the efficiency of triple-engine planes, with the 8X offering a significant 15% fuel savings over its ultra-long-range competitors.

Entering the Galley and Main Cabin

Upon entering, you're greeted by a fully-equipped kitchen-style galley designed for top-tier meal preparation mid-flight. This space is large for aircraft standards, with an oven, microwave, and espresso machine, alongside ample storage within its various compartments.

Flexible Seating Arrangements

Continuing into the main seating area, the jet features plush seats that can fully recline and rotate, allowing passengers maximum comfort for the journey. The eight seats can adjust into six beds.

Its total passenger capacity is configurable up to 16, making it as versatile as it is luxurious.

Cabin Comfort and Technology

Renowned for having the quietest cabins, the Falcon 8X combines special insulation with an advanced pressurization system, maintaining air pressure equivalent to just 3,900 feet even while cruising at 41,000 feet. This technology goes a long way in mitigating fatigue and jet lag on long hauls.

Unique Interior Stylings

The cabin’s aesthetic choices include elegant rose gold highlights throughout, from light fixtures to safety belts, adding an extra layer of sophistication.

Additional Amenities at the Rear

In the rear lounge area, there's a dual-couch setup, accommodating up to six people or transforming into an expansive bed, increased by in-flight entertainment options including a TV monitoring the flight's journey.

Cargo and Restroom Facilities

The restroom here is generously spaced, with optional custom features like showers, though this particular model didn't feature one. There's direct access to the baggage space, providing 140 cubic feet of storage.

State-of-the-Art Flight Deck

Dassault's cutting-edge cockpit innovations include the 'FalconEye' system, a revolutionary imaging technology that offers pilots enhanced visibility during challenging landing conditions.