Gulfstream is continuing to pursue new product development and extending the capabilities of its existing products during the pandemic. Three recent events merit mention:
G700 progressing on plan
The new G700 development schedule remains on target, with two additional test aircraft joining the first aircraft in what will eventually be a five aircraft test fleet. The second G700 had its first flight on March 20th, reaching 45,000 feet and a speed of Mach 0.85. The third aircraft had its first flight on May 8th and spent over three hours in flight.
“The G700 flight-test program is running very well, a reflection of the extensive testing we conducted in our ground labs,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “All three flight-test aircraft are performing exactly as we expected them to, and that helps us ensure a safe and thorough certification of the highest performing, most spacious and technologically advanced aircraft in business aviation.”
With more than 100 hours flown to date, reaching maximum altitudes of 54,000 feet, and a top speed of Mach 0.94, the flight test aircraft are expanding the flight envelope with flutter testing, flying quality evaluations, and flight control responsiveness.
G600 now EASA certified
The Gulfstream G600 obtained EASA certification on May 11th, after obtaining US certification in June 2019. This opens the European market for the G600, which offers a range of 5,500 nm at Mach 0.9, or 6,500 nm at Mach 0.85.
“The Gulfstream G600’s advanced technology, high-speed performance, and unparalleled efficiency will serve the intercontinental European business traveler well,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “We are excited to get this aircraft in the hands of customers throughout the continent.”
G280 sets new speed record
The G280 set another city-pair speed record with the destination of London City requiring steep- approach capabilities. The record was set on February 16th from Burlington Vermont to London City, a 2,735 nautical mile distance that was flown with an average speed of Mach 0.83. This was the 75th city-pair record for the G280.
“The Gulfstream G280’s combination of range, fuel-efficiency, and performance, particularly on short runways, reinforces its place atop the super-midsize class,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “These latest city-pair speed records are further proof of the aircraft’s superior performance capabilities bolstered by its advanced wing, robust airframe, and powerful engines.”
The G280 can fly four passengers 3,600 nm/6,667 km at Mach 0.80 or 3,000 nm/5,556 km at Mach 0.84
