Dassault to increase sales by 10% in Mena
Jet manufacturer plans to achieve 10% growth in the region this year
Abu Dhabi: Dassault Falcon, a Paris-based jet manufacturer, is planning to grow in the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region in the coming 18 months by 10 per cent, Renaud Cloatre, Dassault Falcon Middle East General Manager told Gulf News.
“We are looking to grow by 10 per cent in the Mena. We see the market for business jets recovering across the region, helped by operators and the increased globalisation of regional commerce,” added Cloatre.
He added that Dassault Falcon will be delivering 6 Falcons to customers in the Middle East in the next few months.
“We will hand over 6 of our Falcons to customers in the region and there are currently more than 60 Falcon business jets operating in the Mena,” Cloatre continued.
He added that the company produces five models: Falcon 7X, Falcon 900LX, Falcon 2000LXS, Falcon 2000LX and Falcon 2000S.
Business in 2012
He explained that business in 2012 was very positive as the world started recovering from the financial and economic crisis.
“Year 2012 proved to be another positive year for us. We concluded orders from some customers in Mena to buy Falcon jets. The business of private jets in the region is maturing,” Cloatre said.
He reiterated that the Mena region has world class infrastructure including magnificent new airports which prompts businessmen to own their own jets to manage their businesses.
“The infrastructure in the region is very magnificent, the airports are being developed to accommodate various jets, the economies in the region are booming and the future remains promising,” said the general manager.
2000 Falcons in 80 countries
Cloatre said that by end of 2012, there were more than 2000 Falcon jets operating in 80 countries.
“Our company has always been a leader in jets and we meet the demands of the owners in various regions, particularly in the Mena. We offer long range and large, roomy cabins which are ideal for work and rest,” said Cloatre.
He added that Falcons burn 20-40 per cent less fuel and offer up to 50 per cent lower operating costs than some aircraft in their class.
