News Aircraft Aircraft manufacturers Engines
Gulfstream launches fourth G700 test aircraft

The fourth Gulfstream G700 test aircraft today completed its first flight, lasting one hour and 56 minutes. It reached an altitude of 41,000 feet (12,497 metres) and a speed of Mach 0.89.

The aircraft’s testing regimen, explains Gulfstream Aerospace, will include avionics, environmental control system, mechanical systems, electrical power and hydraulics.

“This is the fourth first flight we’ve accomplished within just eight months, and that is a truly impressive feat,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “I have said it before: What sets Gulfstream apart is that we ensure our aircraft are mature upon certification.”

Together, the four flight-test aircraft have flown more than 600 hours since the program’s first flight on February 14, 2020. The G700 has also flown beyond its maximum certified operating speed of Mach 0.925 and cruise altitude, reaching a speed of Mach 0.99 and an altitude of 54,000 ft (16,459 m).

Gulfstream updates G700 program progress

Gulfstream explains more test aircraft are being prepared to join the certification program. This will include fully outfitted production aircraft to test interior elements, such as what the company describes as an all-new true circadian lighting system, an ultragalley and a grand suite.

The G700 is powered by Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 engines and can fly at its high-speed cruise of Mach 0.90 for 6,400 nm (11,853 km) or at its long-range cruise of Mach 0.85 for 7,500 nm (13,890 km) – IFR, with eight passengers and four crew and acceptable fuel reserves.

The G700 features Gulfstream’s Predictive Landing Performance System and Symmetry Flight Deck with what the company describes as the industry’s only electronically linked active control sidestick, as well as the most extensive use of touch-screen technology in business aviation.

Today, under parent company General Dynamics, nearly 2,900 Gulfstream aircraft are in service around the world.