MERIGNAC, France (AP) -- The Falcon 7X, Dassault Aviation's new high-end business jet, completed its first test flight Thursday in southwestern France, the company said.
The 90-minute flight from Merignac airport outside of Bordeaux allowed engineers to verify the proper functioning of the jet's electric flight controls and other on-board systems, the French aerospace company said.
The triple-engine Falcon 7X fits up to 19 passengers and can fly 10,500 kilometers (6,525 miles) without refueling. It will be able to make nonstop trips from Paris to Los Angeles or Tokyo.
Its predecessor, the Falcon 900, flies just over 8,000 kilometers (4,970 miles) nonstop.
The Falcon 7X is the first business jet with electric flight controls, a system that allows for easier piloting.
Dassault, which also makes the Mirage and Rafale fighter planes, said it has 50 firm orders for the new luxury jet. First deliveries are expected before the end of 2006.
