Test Pilot Jean-Marie Saget Dies at 91

Jean-Marie Saget, a distinguished test pilot for Dassault Aviation, has passed away at the age of 91.

Saget amassed over 20,000 flight hours across 150 different aircraft types during his extensive career. He was involved in the testing of all Dassault Aviation fighter aircraft and civilian models, as well as the Atlantique 2 maritime patrol aircraft.

Born in Paris in 1929, Saget graduated from the École de l’Air in 1949. After military service as a fighter pilot in the French Air Force, he joined Dassault Aviation in 1955. His role as a test pilot saw him responsible for key programs, including the Etendard IV M, Mirage III V, Mirage F1, Alpha Jet, and Mirage 4000.

Beyond his primary testing duties, Saget conducted spin tests for several aircraft and performed numerous flight demonstrations internationally. He concluded his professional career as a technical-operational advisor to the company. Saget also maintained a passion for aviation as an aerobatics instructor throughout his later life.

He died on March 19, 2020.