All-New Gulfstream G800 Makes First Flight

[Aviation]

Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. announced on 29 June 2022, that their all-new ultralong-range Gulfstream G800 successfully completed its first flight, thus officially launching the industry’s longest-range aircraft’s flight-test programme. The G800, which was announced in October 2021, is the latest addition to Gulfstream’s next-generation fleet to take flight and progress towards client deliveries.

The G800 took off from Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport at 9:00 a.m. and returned two hours later. In keeping with Gulfstream’s commitment to aviation sustainability leadership, the aircraft flew utilising a sustainable aviation fuel blend.

“When the first G800 test aircraft rolled out at our announcement last fall, we changed the game once again for our industry. 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.”

Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream

The G800 can fly 8,000 nautical miles/14,816 kilometers at Mach 0.85 and 7,000 nm/12,964 km at Mach 0.90 with class-leading fuel-efficiency, thanks to the combination of the Gulfstream-designed, advanced high-speed wing and all-new, high-thrust Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 engines.

The G800 also features the latest in Gulfstream’s cabin technology and comfort, including hand-crafted, ergonomic seats; a high-definition circadian lighting system; 100% fresh, never recirculated air; the lowest cabin altitude in the industry; a plasma-ionization air purification system; and 16 of the largest windows in the industry. Designed to seat up to 19 passengers, the G800 offers up to four living areas, or three living areas with a crew compartment.

The G800 is equipped with Gulfstream’s next-generation Symmetry Flight Deck and dual head-up displays featuring the new Combined Vision System, which includes Enhanced Flight Vision System and Synthetic Vision System imagery, further enhancing safety and pilot situational awareness.

“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 first flight brings us even closer to delivering a Gulfstream for every mission.”

[Updated]

Gulfstream G800 Makes First International Flight

Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. announced on 16 July 2022 that their all-new ultralong-range Gulfstream G800 made its first international flight just weeks after the aircraft’s first flight on 29 June 2022. The G800 flew from Savannah to Gulfstream Customer Support’s Farnborough, England, facility in support of Gulfstream’s participation in the Farnborough International Airshow 2022.

The G800 made its first flight on June 28 and shortly thereafter, the Gulfstream flight test team completed additional testing requirements, including a long-duration flight of more than eight hours and operations beyond the aircraft’s maximum operating speed and cruise altitude of Mach 0.925 and 51,000 feet/15,545 meters, respectively.

“To take the G800 on this trans-Atlantic trip so close to first flight is extraordinary. Thanks to our strategic planning and the investments Gulfstream has made in our new aircraft programs, we are able to fly the G800 with remarkable efficiency and bring the aircraft directly to customers early in the flight test program, as we have in Farnborough. The Gulfstream Farnborough Service Center is one of our newest and most modern, and it’s fitting that the G800 has made its international debut here.”

Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream

Since opening in the summer of 2020, the Gulfstream Farnborough Service Center currently has over 200 employees and earned 30 foreign regulatory approvals. The 225,000-square-foot/20,903-square-meter facility can accommodate up to 13 of Gulfstream’s larger aircraft, including the G650ER, G700 and G800, and offering maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services, as well as interior refurbishments and aftermarket modifications.

Photo credits: Gulfstream Aerospace Corp.

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