As the G700 approaches U.S. FAA certification in the next few months, Gulfstream Aerospace continues to expand its marketing efforts for its new flagship in the Gulf region, displaying the ultra-long-range business jet at the Dubai Airshow for the first time.
Gulfstream Aerospace still expects certification by year-end, reporting recently that it “continues to move closer to its ultimate conclusion.” During its recent third-quarter analysts' call, however, the company conceded that approval depends on FAA resource availability and credit it might receive for company flying.
In anticipation of certification, Gulfstream has been building an inventory of the aircraft. Jason Aiken, executive v-p of technologies and CFO of Gulfstream parent General Dynamics, told investors that if certification comes in the early to mid-December timeframe, it could deliver the first G700 before year-end. “We’ve got a good shot of getting the planned deliveries of G700s out the door this year," he said. "Obviously, if that pushes further to the right, that puts that a little bit at risk.”
Gulfstream had targeted as many as 19 deliveries this year, and by late October, 15 of those were "ready to go and are in good shape,” Aiken added.
As approval nears, Gulfstream increased the aircraft’s range and speed performance parameters. Range now extends to 7,750 nm at Mach 0.85 and 6,650 nm at Mach 0.90, representing a 250 nm boost at both speeds. Mmo also increased from Mach 0.925 to Mach 0.935. In addition, the company reduced the cabin altitude to 2,840 feet at 41,000 feet, helping to reduce fatigue on flights.
Scott Neal, senior v-p of worldwide sales for Gulfstream, noted the company's commitment to the Gulf and beyond. "We have a long-standing history in the Middle East and surrounding regions," he said. "Recently, we announced a host of increased capabilities across the fleet, and we look forward to meeting with customers and guests at the Dubai Airshow.”
Along with the G700, Gulfstream is showcasing its G500 long-range, large-cabin model. Accumulating nearly 60 city-pair speed records, the G500 can fly 5,300 nm at Mach 0.85 and 4,500 nm at Mach 0.90. Gulfstream noted the aircraft became the first certified for enhanced flight vision system-to-land capability and more recently obtained steep approach approval.