The Gulfstream G500 & G600 edge nearer
Gulfstream’s much-anticipated new long range jets, the G500 and G600, are inching closer to delivery. The G600 has now begun its final field performance testing ahead of expected certification at the end of the year. This follows the G500’s certification in July.
It’s unusual to see a manufacturer put two new clean-sheet designs through the certification process at once, so it’s very exciting to see these two new models getting closer to a reality – four years since they were first unveiled in the lead up to industry convention NBAA in 2014. Gulfstream will start delivering the first models of both the G500 and G600 in 2019.
Lower in range than the ultra long range G650ER and the G550, these new aircraft will fill the gap in Gulfstream’s line-up left by the G450 – which stopped production earlier this year (but remains very popular with our private jet charter clients).
Like the G450, the G500 and G600 can each seat up to 19 passengers, depending on the configuration. But both of the new aircraft offer greater speed and range than the G450, able to reach a maximum speed of Mach 0.925, and a range of 5,200 nm for the G500, and 6,500 nm for the G600.
The luxury cabin experience includes lie-flat seating for all seats; a mirrored mid-cabin bulkhead to reflect maximum light; and award-winning interior design options. One hundred percent fresh air plus a maximum cabin altitude of 4,850 feet helps to prevent jet lag.
The G500 and G600 are powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada PW800 turbofan engines – a big departure for Gulfstream who have traditionally partnered with Rolls Royce. Combined with the innovative wing design, this will reportedly make them industry-leading in their fuel efficiency.
And the innovative Gulfstream Symmetry Flight Deck™ features active control sidesticks and touch-screen avionics interfaces, both industry firsts. This new technology by Honeywell which allows the captain and the first officer to see and feel each other’s actions. This, and other flight control developments, will give the flight crew the most coordinated approach in the cockpit, enhancing safety.
When will the G500 & G600 be available for charter?
Deliveries of the G500 are expected to start early in 2019, with the G600 to follow in the first half of the year. So we’re hoping to be able to offer these new Gulfstream models for charter by the end of 2019.
To charter an existing Gulfstream model, or compare your aircraft options, our expert Flight Team is available 24/7 on +44 (0)20 7100 6960 or you can contact us online.