Saudia Private Aviation, the private aviation arm of Saudi Arabian Airlines, has become the largest single customer/operator of the Falcon 7X following the delivery of its fourth aircraft.

Managing director Wajdi Abdullah Al-Idrissi says: "The Falcon 7X is a great addition to our fleet of business jets and is in great demand for charter flights worldwide. The Falcon 7X has received high marks from our customers in regard to its advanced technology and its exceptional cabin comfort.

"Combined with the highest standards in terms of finishing and onboard equipment, the cabin meets the most demanding requirements of passengers for high levels of comfort, especially on very long non stop flights, up to 13 hours," he adds.

Dassault's global Falcon 7X fleet has just passed the milestones of 100,000 flying hours and accounts for 40 per cent of the manufacturer's Middle East aircraft sales. Sales in the Middle East continue to be especially strong, with three 7Xs delivered to owners in the past six months.

The Middle East region remains a major market for Dassault with aircraft deliveries rising as the regional market for business jets recovers, helped by the increasing globalisation of business and the rise of strong companies operating internationally. It has a backlog of a dozen aircraft to be delivered to regional buyers over the next two years.

John Rosanvallon, president and ceo of Dassault Falcon Jet, adds: "The Falcon 7X has achieved impressive sales worldwide and demand in the Middle East has been especially strong, with several aircraft now operating from the region. We are delighted to be working with Saudia Private Aviation in Saudi Arabia and congratulate them on becoming the world's largest single customer/ operator of the aircraft. The 7X is well suited to the demands of charter clients in Saudi Arabia where they are flying intensively, supported effectively by our ASC and technical centres in the Kingdom."