Business Aviation
Rolls Royce Pearl 10X Engine Powers Dassault Falcon 10X Jet
Rolls-Royce Pearl 10X delivers 18,250 lbs thrust for Dassault Falcon 10X with improved fuel efficiency and near certification for 2027 launch.
The aviation industry stands at a pivotal point as Rolls-Royce approaches final certification of its Pearl 10X engine. Developed exclusively for the Dassault Falcon 10X business jet, the Pearl 10X represents the most powerful engine in Rolls-Royce’s business aviation portfolio, delivering over 18,000 pounds of thrust. This engine is not only a technological milestone but also a strategic move that places Rolls-Royce in direct competition with established players in the ultra-long-range business jet segment.
With more than 3,400 hours of testing completed and only emissions validation remaining, the Pearl 10X is on the brink of certification. This comes at a time when the business aviation market is experiencing significant growth, projected to expand from $102.69 billion in 2024 to $254.26 billion by 2032. The Pearl 10X is poised to capitalize on this growth, offering a blend of high performance, fuel efficiency, and environmental responsibility.
The Pearl 10X is the latest evolution in the Pearl engine family, which began with the Pearl 15 in 2018. Rolls-Royce designed the Pearl series to bridge proven BR700 engine features with innovations from the Advance2 demonstrator program. The Pearl 15 powers the Bombardier Global 5500 and 6500, while the Pearl 700 is used on Gulfstream’s G700 and G800 jets.
The Pearl 10X marks Rolls-Royce’s first collaboration with Dassault Aviation. Announced in May 2021, it is designed exclusively for the Falcon 10X, a $75 million ultra-long-range business jet expected to enter service in 2027. The engine incorporates the Advance2 core and introduces several firsts, including 3D-printed combustor tiles.
Rolls-Royce’s strategy with the Pearl engine family has been to progressively introduce advanced materials, higher bypass ratios, and more efficient thermodynamic cycles. The Pearl 10X continues this trend, offering a 5% fuel efficiency improvement over previous-generation engines and full compatibility with 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
One of the standout features of the Pearl 10X is its use of 3D-printed combustor tiles. Manufactured using Additive Layer Manufacturing (ALM), these tiles include intricate cooling channels that enhance thermal efficiency and reduce emissions. This is the first time Rolls-Royce has used such technology in a production engine.
The engine’s architecture includes a titanium fan blisk, a 10-stage high-pressure compressor with a 24:1 pressure ratio, a two-stage high-pressure turbine, and a four-stage low-pressure turbine. These components contribute to both performance and efficiency, enabling the Pearl 10X to deliver 18,250 pounds of thrust.
Advanced composite materials are used throughout the engine to reduce weight and enhance durability. The fan system, using a blisked design, improves aerodynamic efficiency and reduces maintenance complexity. These innovations collectively position the Pearl 10X as a leader in next-generation business aviation propulsion.
“Each milestone achieved in the Pearl 10X development programme so far reflects the hard work and dedication of our global engineering and experimental test teams.” — Dr. Phillip Zeller, Rolls-Royce
The Pearl 10X has undergone an extensive certification campaign, including 3,400 hours of testing and 25 flight test sorties covering 41,000 miles. Ground testing began in 2022, validating key systems like the combustor and gearbox. The engine exceeded its thrust targets during its first test run, confirming its design assumptions.
Flight testing was conducted using a Boeing 747-200 testbed in Arizona, evaluating performance across altitudes up to 45,000 feet and speeds up to 690 mph. Tests included inflight relights, performance checks, and emissions assessments. As of mid-2025, only emissions testing remains before final certification.
Certification milestones included bird strike testing, crosswind testing, and emissions compliance. These rigorous tests ensure the engine meets stringent safety and performance standards. The results have aligned with Dassault’s timeline, with Pearl 10X engines already delivered for Falcon 10X prototypes.
The Pearl 10X enters a competitive landscape dominated by engines like the Pratt & Whitney PW800 family. However, with 18,250 pounds of thrust, the Pearl 10X surpasses competitors in power output. It also offers a 5% fuel efficiency gain, a critical factor given operating costs of $2,000–$3,000 per hour and charter rates around $11,000 per hour for the Falcon 10X.
The business jets market is projected to grow significantly, from $102.69 billion in 2024 to $254.26 billion by 2032. The aircraft engine market follows a similar trajectory, expected to grow from $118.73 billion in 2025 to $204.80 billion by 2032. Within this context, the Pearl 10X is well-positioned to capture market share in the premium ultra-long-range segment.
Rolls-Royce’s exclusive partnership with Dassault for the Falcon 10X ensures a stable launch platform. The engine’s performance, efficiency, and environmental credentials make it attractive to both OEMs and operators. Its ability to support steep approaches, such as at London City Airport, further expands its operational flexibility.
The Pearl 10X is fully compatible with 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), aligning with industry goals for emissions reduction. SAF can reduce lifecycle carbon emissions by up to 80%, depending on feedstock and production methods. This compatibility allows operators to reduce their carbon footprint without sacrificing performance.
The engine’s 3D-printed combustor tiles also contribute to environmental performance by reducing NOx emissions. Efficient combustor cooling and precise fuel-air mixing minimize hot spots and improve combustion efficiency. Combined with a high bypass ratio and advanced materials, these features reduce both CO2 and noise emissions. Rolls-Royce’s broader environmental strategy includes commitments to carbon neutrality and sustainable propulsion. The Pearl 10X exemplifies this strategy, balancing performance with environmental responsibility. It is designed to meet current and future ICAO emissions and noise standards, ensuring long-term regulatory compliance.
The Pearl 10X represents a significant advancement in business aviation propulsion. With over 18,000 pounds of thrust, cutting-edge manufacturing techniques, and environmental compatibility, it sets a new benchmark in the ultra-long-range segment. Rolls-Royce’s strategic partnership with Dassault and the engine’s strong performance profile position it for commercial success.
As the engine moves toward final certification, it reflects broader industry trends: the integration of sustainable technologies, the use of additive manufacturing, and the demand for high-performance, low-emission propulsion systems. The Pearl 10X is more than just an engine—it’s a glimpse into the future of business aviation.
What aircraft will the Pearl 10X power? What is the thrust rating of the Pearl 10X? Is the Pearl 10X compatible with Sustainable Aviation Fuel? Sources:
Rolls-Royce Pearl 10X Engine Nears Certification: A New Era in Business Aviation Propulsion
Evolution of the Pearl Engine Family
Technological Innovations
Certification and Testing Campaign
Market Context and Competitive Positioning
Environmental and Sustainability Considerations
Conclusion
FAQ
The Pearl 10X is designed exclusively for the Dassault Falcon 10X ultra-long-range business jet.
The engine delivers 18,250 pounds of thrust, making it the most powerful business aviation engine from Rolls-Royce.
Yes, the engine is fully compatible with 100% SAF, enabling significant reductions in lifecycle carbon emissions.
Aviation Week,
Rolls-Royce,
Dassault Falcon,
Grand View Research,
FlightGlobal,
NASA,
Pratt & Whitney
Photo Credit: Simple Flying
Business Aviation
NTSB Preliminary Findings on Statesville Cessna Citation Crash
NTSB details preliminary findings on the fatal Statesville Cessna Citation 550 crash with seven fatalities, including Greg Biffle.
This article is based on official releases and media briefings from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released initial findings and visual assets regarding the fatal crash of a Cessna Citation 550 business jet in Statesville, North Carolina. The accident, which occurred on December 18, 2025, resulted in the deaths of all seven occupants, including former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle and members of his family.
According to official updates from the agency, investigators have recovered the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and identified key details regarding the aircraft’s final moments. The NTSB has also made high-resolution photos and b-roll footage of the accident site available to the public as part of their transparency efforts during the ongoing investigation (Case ID: WPR26MA063).
The aircraft, identified by registration N257BW, departed Statesville Regional Airport (SVH) at approximately 10:05 AM EST, bound for Sarasota-Bradenton (SRQ). NTSB investigators report that roughly 10 minutes after takeoff, the pilot initiated a return to the airport, executing a left turn to align with Runway 28.
During media briefings, NTSB officials revealed a critical piece of communication sent from inside the cabin. A passenger on board sent a text message to a family member shortly before impact.
“Emergency landing.”
, Text message sent by a passenger, confirmed by NTSB officials
The crash sequence ended when the aircraft struck approach lighting stanchions approximately 1,800 feet short of the runway threshold. Following the initial impact, the jet collided with trees and the airport perimeter fence before coming to rest and catching fire. The debris field suggests the aircraft was configured for landing with landing gear down and flaps set, indicating it was “stable on approach” but flying too low.
NTSB Board Member Michael Graham and Investigator-in-Charge Dan Baker provided updates on the physical evidence recovered from the site. While the aircraft sustained extensive fire damage, investigators have identified the engines and flight control surfaces within the wreckage. The Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) has been successfully recovered and transported to the NTSB laboratory in Washington, D.C., for analysis. Officials noted that the aircraft was not equipped with a Flight Data Recorder (FDR), as it was not required by regulation for this specific airframe, which was manufactured in 1981.
At the time of the accident (approximately 10:15 AM EST), weather conditions at Statesville Regional Airport included low clouds, mist, and drizzle. Visibility was reported to be approximately 3 to 5 miles. These environmental factors will be a key component of the ongoing inquiry.
To maintain transparency, the NTSB has published a collection of visual assets on the investigation’s official webpage. These materials include:
All future updates, including the preliminary report (expected within 30 days), the public docket, and the final report, will be posted to the same location.
The absence of a Flight Data Recorder (FDR) on older business jets like this 1981 Cessna Citation 550 is not uncommon, but it places significantly more weight on the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and physical site analysis. Without digital flight data parameters, investigators must rely heavily on audio cues, radar tracks, and the physical position of actuators and switches in the wreckage to reconstruct the flight path. The fact that the aircraft was “stable on approach” but 1,800 feet short suggests a focus on altitude awareness, altimeter settings, or visual illusions caused by the reported mist and low clouds.
Who were the victims of the crash? When will the cause of the crash be determined? Was the airport controlled? Where can I view the photos and b-roll?
NTSB Releases Preliminary Findings on Statesville Cessna Citation Crash
Crash Sequence and “Emergency Landing” Communication
Investigation Status and Site Analysis
Recorder Recovery
Weather Factors
Visual Assets and Public Docket
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Authorities have confirmed seven fatalities. The victims include Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, daughter Emma, son Ryder, pilot Dennis Dutton, Jack Dutton, and Craig Wadsworth.
The NTSB typically releases a preliminary report within 30 days of the accident, which contains factual information but no probable cause. A final report, including the probable cause, usually takes 12 to 24 months to complete.
No. Statesville Regional Airport is a non-towered airport. Pilots use a Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF) to coordinate their movements.
The NTSB has hosted all visual assets on their official investigation webpage linked below.Sources
Photo Credit: NTSB
Business Aviation
Honda Aircraft Introduces APMG S Upgrade for Legacy HondaJets
Honda Aircraft offers the APMG S retrofit for Classic and APMG HondaJets, enhancing payload, avionics, and safety with FAA certified upgrades.
This article is based on an official press release from Honda Aircraft Company.
Honda Aircraft Company has officially introduced the “APMG S” upgrade package, a new retrofit program designed to modernize the manufacturers‘ earlier aircraft models. Announced as the fleet approaches its tenth anniversary, this initiative allows owners of the original HondaJet (Classic) and the HondaJet APMG to install advanced avionics and performance features that were previously exclusive to the newer HondaJet Elite S model.
According to the company’s announcement, the upgrade is available immediately for installation at the Honda Aircraft Company Service Center in Greensboro, North Carolina, as well as through its authorized service center network. The package has already received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification for U.S.-registered aircraft, with certification from other international regulatory bodies planned to follow.
The APMG S package focuses on bridging the gap between the earliest iterations of the HondaJet and the current production standards. The upgrade targets three primary areas: payload capacity, avionics processing, and pilot handling.
Increased Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW) Avionics and Safety Systems Additionally, the upgrade introduces a new graphical interface for Weight and Balance calculations on the flight deck, streamlining pre-flight preparations for pilots.
The introduction of the APMG S appears to be a move to protect the longevity and residual value of the HondaJet fleet. By offering a pathway for early adopters to upgrade their airframes to “Elite S” standards, the manufacturer is ensuring that older models remain competitive in the Very Light Jet (VLJ) market. In the official press release, Amod Kelkar, Chief Commercial Officer of Honda Aircraft Company, emphasized the company’s dedication to its existing customer base:
“As we approach the tenth anniversary of our first HondaJet delivery, we are excited to provide our customers the opportunity to upgrade their aircraft with the advanced technology and performance of more recent iterations. The APMG S package brings the spirit of continuous improvement to our in-service fleet, ensuring that the HondaJet remains at the forefront of the light jet category.”
While the official release focuses on technical specifications, the strategic timing of this announcement is notable. The first HondaJet “Classic” models were delivered between 2015 and 2018. As these airframes approach the decade mark, they face potential obsolescence when compared to newer entrants like the Cessna Citation M2 Gen2 or the Embraer Phenom 100EV.
By offering a retrofit option rather than forcing customers to purchase a new aircraft to gain these capabilities, Honda is likely aiming to prevent customer defection to competitors. This strategy aligns with a broader industry trend toward sustainability and lifecycle extension, where “retrofitting” is viewed as a more environmentally and financially responsible alternative to scrapping or replacing airframes. While specific pricing was not disclosed in the release, owners are directed to contact service centers for quotes, historical data suggests such upgrades offer a cost-effective alternative to trading up to a new $6 million-plus aircraft.
Honda Aircraft Company has confirmed that the APMG S package is available for installation now. The upgrade is applicable to:
Owners interested in the upgrade can schedule installation at the factory service center in Greensboro, NC, or at authorized facilities worldwide. While FAA certification is complete, European operators and those in other jurisdictions will need to wait for subsequent regulatory approvals, which the company states are currently in planning.
Honda Aircraft Company Unveils APMG S Upgrade for Legacy HondaJet Fleet
Technical Enhancements and Performance Gains
One of the most significant operational changes included in the package is a 300-pound increase in Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW). In practical terms, this allows operators to carry approximately one additional passenger or significantly more fuel and baggage without compromising range. The company states that this upgrade directly addresses the evolving mission requirements of current owners.
The retrofit includes both hardware and software updates to the Garmin G3000 avionics suite. These updates are designed to deliver faster processing speeds and enable advanced flight deck features. A key safety addition is the Advanced Steering Augmentation System (ASAS). According to Honda Aircraft Company, ASAS is engineered to reduce pilot workload and enhance safety during the landing rollout, particularly in challenging crosswind conditions.
Strategic Commitment to the Fleet
AirPro News Analysis
Availability and Implementation
Sources
Photo Credit: HondaJet
Business Aviation
PlaneSense and CaptainJet Partner to Expand Private Jet Access Across Continents
PlaneSense partners with CaptainJet, enabling reciprocal private flight access with Pilatus aircraft across the US, Europe, Canada, and the Caribbean.
This article is based on an official press release from PlaneSense, Inc. and CaptainJet.
PlaneSense, Inc., a leading fractional aircraft ownership program based in the United States, has announced a significant expansion of its international service capabilities through a new collaboration with CaptainJet, a European luxury charter sourcing provider. Announced on December 16, 2025, this partnership aims to provide seamless, reciprocal private travel solutions for clients on both sides of the Atlantic.
According to the official press release, the agreement allows PlaneSense shareowners to access a vast network of charter aircraft when traveling within Europe. Conversely, CaptainJet clients visiting the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean will gain access to the PlaneSense fleet, which consists of the Pilatus PC-12 turboprop and the Pilatus PC-24 jet. This move solidifies a growing alliance between PlaneSense and the broader Jetfly Group, CaptainJet’s affiliate, following an earlier partnership established in 2025.
The core of this collaboration is a reciprocal service agreement designed to simplify the complexities of international private aviation. For PlaneSense shareowners, the company has integrated a “PlaneSense Sourcing Solution” team that will coordinate directly with CaptainJet. This arrangement provides U.S. clients with access to CaptainJet’s network, which includes over 7,000 aircraft globally, ensuring availability even during high-demand periods in Europe.
For European travelers, the partnerships opens the door to the PlaneSense fleet. CaptainJet clients can now book flights on the Pilatus PC-12 and PC-24 aircraft operated by PlaneSense. These aircraft are renowned for their short-field performance, allowing access to smaller regional airports that are often closer to final destinations than major hubs.
This collaboration builds upon a previous agreement between PlaneSense and Jetfly, a European fractional operator and affiliate of CaptainJet. Both PlaneSense and Jetfly utilize fleets heavily focused on Pilatus aircraft. By partnering with CaptainJet, PlaneSense extends its reach beyond the specific fractional fleet of Jetfly, offering its owners a broader range of charter options to suit various mission profiles that might fall outside the scope of the fractional fleet.
Leadership from both organizations emphasized the client-focused nature of the deal, highlighting the demand for a unified booking experience across continents.
George Antoniadis, President and CEO of PlaneSense, Inc., stated in the press release: “Working with the CaptainJet team allows us to greatly expand our footprint and assist our valued clients with their global travel needs.”
Yves Roch, CEO of CaptainJet, echoed these sentiments, noting the quality of the U.S. operator’s fleet:
“We’re proud to collaborate with PlaneSense, providing clients with exceptional private flights on both sides of the Atlantic.”
The Asset-Light Expansion Model The Short-Runway Niche 2025 Industry Trends What aircraft will PlaneSense clients fly on in Europe? Can CaptainJet clients fly the PC-12 in the US? Is this a merger?
PlaneSense and CaptainJet Launch Strategic Transatlantic Collaboration
Reciprocal Access for Global Travelers
Strengthening the “Pilatus Alliance”
Executive Commentary
Strategic Market Context
AirPro News Analysis
This collaboration represents a distinct strategic approach compared to other major players in the private-jets sector. While competitors such as NetJets and Flexjet have pursued “organic expansion” or “acquisition” models, spending significant capital to buy aircraft and obtain operating certificates in Europe, PlaneSense is effectively building a virtual global fleet. By partnering with CaptainJet and Jetfly, PlaneSense secures immediate European market access without the heavy infrastructure investment required to establish a standalone European division.
A critical differentiator for this alliance is the specific capability of the aircraft involved. Both PlaneSense and the Jetfly Group specialize in Pilatus aircraft (PC-12 and PC-24). These aircraft possess unique short-field capabilities, allowing them to land on runways as short as 3,000 feet, including grass and dirt strips. This opens up access to exclusive destinations, such as Courchevel in the French Alps or smaller Caribbean islands, that are inaccessible to the larger jets typically flown by competitors like VistaJet or Wheels Up. This “adventure access” segment remains a defensible niche that this partnership strengthens.
The timing of this deal aligns with broader 2025 trends where high-net-worth individuals increasingly demand “one-call” solutions. The post-pandemic travel boom has occasionally strained charter inventory; by aligning with a major sourcing agent like CaptainJet, PlaneSense mitigates the risk of inventory shortages for its clients abroad. This ensures that U.S. owners are not left to navigate a fragmented European charter broker market on their own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Through CaptainJet, PlaneSense clients will have access to a sourcing network of over 7,000 aircraft, ranging from light jets to large-cabin aircraft, in addition to the Pilatus fleet available through the Jetfly affiliate partnership.
Yes. The agreement specifically allows CaptainJet clients to book flights on the PlaneSense fleet, which includes the Pilatus PC-12 turboprop and the PC-24 light jet, known for their versatility and short-runway performance.
No. This is a strategic collaboration between two independent companies. PlaneSense remains a privately held U.S. company, while CaptainJet operates as a Swiss-based charter sourcing provider affiliated with the Jetfly Group.
Sources
Photo Credit: PlaneSense
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