Gulfstream G500 production test aircraft makes first flight

Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. announced that the fifth Gulfstream G500 test aircraft has completed its first flight. The aircraft is the first production test aircraft to be outfitted with a full interior and serves as the test bed for the cabin.

The G500 departed from Savannah-Hilton Head International airport with flight test pilots Brian Dickerson and Andy Martin and flight test engineer Dustin Johnson on board. The aircraft climbed to a maximum altitude of 48,000 feet (14,630 metres), and reached a speed of Mach 0.84 during the 4-hour and 5-minute flight.

“This first flight of our G500 production test aircraft marks another significant event for the G500 programme and Gulfstream’s history of delivering on our promises,” said Mark Burns, President, Gulfstream. “This fully completed aircraft focuses on the passenger experience and ensures that we deliver the most reliable, comfortable and functional cabin environment on both the G500 and G600.”

The G500 seats up to 19 passengers in three living areas. The aircraft has forward and aft lavatories and a fullsize galley that can be located either forward or aft. The G500 and G600 also feature an industry-leading cabin altitude and 100 per cent fresh air that boost mental awareness and reduce fatigue. Gulfstream’s large oval windows, the same size as those on Gulfstream’s G650 and G650ER, allow for an abundance of natural light.

The G500 is slated to receive type certification in 2017 and deliver in 2018. The G600 is projected to enter service in 2019. The G500 can fly 5,000 nautical miles (9,260 km) at Mach 0.85 or 3,800 nm (7,038 km) at Mach 0.90, while the G600 can carry passengers 6,200 nm (11,482 km) at Mach 0.85 and 4,800 nm (8,890 km) at Mach 0.90. The maximum operating speed for both aircraft is Mach 0.925, the same maximum speed as the G650 and G650ER.