Story ID: 
In The Works: Gulfstream 450
By: AIN Staff
Caption: Gulfstream Aerospace reports that the G450, an upgraded G400 with G550 avionics, is on track for FAA certification in the third quarter of this year.
Word Count: 246
Gulfstream Aerospace reports that the G450, an upgraded G400 with G550 avionics, is on track for FAA certification in the third quarter of this year. Customer deliveries are pegged to begin next spring. Since the model’s first flight on April 30 last year, the four G450 test airplanes have logged more than 1,250 flight hours on about 500 flights. Gulfstream announced the new model, which like the G400 is a derivative of the GIV-SP, at last year’s NBAA Convention in Orlando, Fla.

To date, the G450 has completed all development tests for aerodynamic performance, handling qualities, propulsion, systems and avionics. “We are concentrating our efforts to ensure we meet all certification requirements of the FAA, JAA and European Aviation Safety Agency,” said Pres Henne, Gulfstream senior v-p of programs, engineering and test. Completed certification testing includes flutter, engine-inlet distortion, fire-extinguishing concentration, fluid drainage and ingestion, engine margins, field performance, hydraulics, flight controls, electrical system and Part 36 flyover noise tests.

The FAA last month approved a common type rating for the G350, G450, G500, G550 and GV with completion of minimal transition coursework. The FAA/JAA team members observed and evaluated several pilots, who have other Gulfstream type ratings, while they took the G450 training course in early April. During the second phase, the FAA/JAA officials will evaluate how pilots without previous Gulfstream experience do the same thing. The findings from their evaluation were expected last month.