The Gulfstream G280 has been certified for steep approaches by both the FAA and the Civil Aviation Authority of Israel (CAAI), and has demonstrated this capability at London City Airport, Scott Neal, senior v-p of worldwide sales for Gulfstream, announced on Monday. “Being able to operate at London City gives our Gulfstream G280 operators quick access to one of the world’s great financial centers,” he said, adding that London City approval for the super-midsize jet is forthcoming.
London City requires that each aircraft flying in provide a copy of the steep approach supplement contained within its aircraft flight manual, including aircraft procedures and limitations data and proof of current steep approach flight crew training. When the above requirements are satisfied and all is submitted to the Isle of Man aircraft registry, the registry will provide London City Airport officials with a letter stating its endorsement of the aircraft’s operation for steep 5.5-degree approaches there. This includes a London City steep approach airspace approval document for the aircraft, following the issue by airport officials of the landing certification approval.
“From London City, the G280 can provide nonstop access to all of Europe and Northern Africa,” said Neal. The G280 offers speeds up to Mach 0.85 and the ability to fly four passengers nonstop at Mach 0.80 for 3,600 nm. Other cabin configurations can handle up to 10 passengers. On the flight deck, the aircraft is equipped with the Rockwell Collins Pro Line Fusion-based Gulfstream PlaneView 280 avionics suite. Its Link 2000+ option supports future mandate requirements for operating in European airspace.