Gulfstream Aerospace yesterday celebrated the 10th anniversary of the service entry of its ultra-long-range G650. Since that time, the Rolls-Royce BR725-powered jet has set more than 120 speed records and more than 500 of these aircraft—including the longer-range G650ER variant introduced in 2014—have been delivered.
The G650 first flew in 2009 and received FAA certification on Sept. 7, 2012, and EASA validation on Dec. 21, 2012. Gulfstream won the National Aeronautic Association’s 2014 Robert J. Collier Trophy for the G650 for "significant technological advancements in aircraft performance, cabin comfort, and safety."
With a top cruising speed of Mach 0.925, the G650 has a maximum range of 6,500 nm and the G650ER 7,000 nm. It features a cabin floor that is 80 inches wide and a cabin ceiling that is 77 inches tall and can be configured for up to 18 passengers in any of 12 floorplans, with either forward or aft galleys and with or without a dedicated crew rest area. Passengers can access the 195-cu-ft baggage hold in flight through the aft lavatory. On the flight deck, the aircraft features digital controls, including fly-by-wire technology, and enhanced- and synthetic-vision systems.