Gulfstream announced the G800 first flight today. The new Gulfstream G800 model has successfully completed its maiden flight, formally beginning of the flight test program for the G800. The aircraft, which was launched in October, 2021, is expected to enter service in late 2023. The flight departed Savannah at 9:00am this morning, using a blend of sustainable aviation fuel, and returned two hours later.
“When the first G800 test aircraft rolled out at our announcement last fall, we changed the game once again for our industry,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “At Gulfstream, working closely with our customers allows us to continuously build on our successes and develop aircraft that exceed their expectations. The G800 pushes the boundaries of performance even further with Gulfstream-designed aerodynamics and cabin technology, and we look forward to our customers benefiting from the longer range at higher speeds in our exceptional cabin environment.”
Capable of flying 8,000 nautical miles at Mach 0.85 and 7,000 nm at Mach 0.9, the new model will leverage a newly designed advanced high-speed wing and the all new Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 engines.
The G800 maintains the cabin size of the G650ER, which it replaces, with capacity for up to 19 passengers. Key features include a circadian interior lighting system, 100% fresh air, the lowest cabin altitude in the industry, plasma-ionic air purification, and large windows. The aircraft can be configured into 4 living areas, or three areas plus a crew rest area.
“We have announced eight new aircraft in the past decade, strategically timed to capture market demand,” said Burns. “We are seeing great interest in the G800, and this G800 First Flight brings us even closer to delivering a Gulfstream for every mission.”
The Bottom Line
The top of the business jet market is becoming more competitive, with Gulfstream’s G800, Bombardier’s Global 8000, and Dassault’s Falcon 10X competing as new models that will enter service during the next few years. When competition intensifies, innovation occurs, and that is happening today at the top of the purpose-built business jet market. The G800 first flight reflects the fact that Gulfstream doesn’t plan to relinquish its market leadership position at the top of the market anytime soon.
Hope Gulfstream I wish the Gulfstream success, as I worked on the GII up to the G450, and it is very elegant and safe