Worldwide Customer Service & Service Center Network
Dassault Aviation
Close-knit families don’t shy away from frank conversations. They know that sharing hard truths builds solidarity—that transparency builds trust. I’d like to think that’s how we communicate within the Falcon family. Our annual M&O sessions are one way we demonstrate that commitment.
This year’s kickoff meeting in Paris, attended by about 260 operators was a case in point. We shared progress across the fleet, including more than 30 6X aircraft in 16 countries, many flying at a high tempo in charter work or for corporate flight departments.
We discussed new services, including an easier-to-use Falcon portal, which has really been embraced by operators, 80 percent now using it for ordering parts and manuals. These processes are simpler and quicker. We also reported that 92 percent of parts orders were filled within 24 hours, up five percent from last year—meaningful progress.
Still, we know there is more to do. Operators know we have been challenged by parts availability and the related issue of turnaround times for systems such as engines and landing gear.
To me, the heart of this year’s M&O was candid discussion around these issues. Of particular value was a panel discussion with tier-one suppliers, who were themselves quite candid about their efforts to accelerate turn times, increase rotable pools, and speed deliveries.
Paying attention to parts
We heard from Honeywell and Pratt & Whitney, which are strengthening their supply chains and increasing their spare engine pools. Safran Landing Systems is implementing a recovery plan to speed up landing gear overhauls. They committed to nearly halving turnaround times by year-end.
As our suppliers explained, challenges start at the raw materials level and progress through industrial processes like forging and machining. Lead times remain long. That’s why improvements are not always immediately visible. They believe we are nearing the point where more spares will begin to reach the shelf. Suppliers are also investing in hiring and training, as many experienced people have simply retired either during or following the Covid epidemic.
I want to express my gratitude to our partners for providing such a candid assessment to operators. Our collective aim is to keep you flying, and at events such as our M&O sessions to keep you informed—especially, as we work to improve.
I should mention also that discussions were two-way in breakout sessions and around the many coffee machines in gathering areas. A lot of valuable information was shared. This was also the case at our M&O in Charlotte, North Carolina in early April, and last week in Dallas.
My deepest thanks to all who joined us in Paris, Charlotte, Dallas and all who check out M&O discussions through the Falcon private Portal. Hoping to see even of you more next year?
Senior Vice President, Worldwide Falcon Customer Service & Service Center Network
Dassault Aviation