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Gulfstream’s fifth G700 test aircraft takes flight
October 24, 2020 By Wings Staff
Gulfstream Aerospace fifth G700 test aircraft will focus on avionics. (Photo: Gulfstream) Gulfstream Aerospace on October 23 completed the first flight of its fifth G700 test aircraft, just three weeks after the fourth G700 flew for the first time on October 2.
“The G700 flight-test program is progressing exceptionally well,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “Every day, we come closer to our goal of delivering this revolutionary aircraft to our customers.”
Gulfstream launches fourth G700 test aircraft
The fifth G700 test aircraft flew for three hours and eight minutes, reaching an altitude of 48,000 feet (14,630 metres) and a top speed of Mach 0.935. This aircraft will focus largely on testing avionics.
Powered by Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 engines, the G700 is expected to be rated to fly at a high-speed cruise of Mach 0.90 for 6,400 nautical miles (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 test aircraft have also flown beyond the G700’s projected maximum operating speed and cruise altitude, reaching Mach 0.99 and an altitude of 54,000 feet (16,459 metres). In typical operations, the G700 will be rated for a maximum operating speed of Mach 0.925 and a maximum cruise altitude of 51,000 feet (15,545 metres).
The first G700 test aircraft took flight on February 14, 2020. Gulfstream notes it has since made significant progress in the G700’s flight-test program, including: Cold-weather at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida; flutter; aerodynamic stalls; and envelope expansion.
