Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. announced that Gulfstream G800 dedicated to testing the cabin interior has taken its first flight. Testing for this aircraft will validate the cabin design and performance of the industry’s longest-range aircraft, focusing on the complete passenger experience to ensure interior comfort and reliability.
This first outfitted G800 took flight on Wednesday, Nov. 27, and flew 1 hour and 41 minutes, reaching an altitude of 46,000 feet/14,021 meters and a top speed of Mach 0.91. The aircraft joins the two other test aircraft in the mature certification program and will undergo tests including repetitive operations of all systems during many different phases of flight and a variety of missions, including overnight trips, as well as hot and cold weather scenarios and turbulence.
“The G800 flight test program is making great progress, reaffirming our confidence in the flexibility, durability and reliability this aircraft will provide,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “With its vast range of innovative customization options, the ultralong-range G800 is a true testament to our industry-leading completions and interior and industrial design teams and their commitment to bespoke artistry.”
The G800 includes a number of cabin features, including a new ultragalley with an abundance of counter, refrigeration, accessory and storage space; a beverage maker and cooking appliance array; and a dedicated crew compartment. It can be configured in up to four living areas and accommodate up to 19 passengers with sleeping for up to 10.
The G800 is the longest-range Gulfstream aircraft ever designed, capable of flying 8,000 nautical miles/14,816 kilometers at Mach 0.85 and 7,000 nm/12,964 km at Mach 0.90, with the best fuel-efficiency and lowest carbon footprint in its class. Thanks to the commonalities of the Gulfstream next-generation fleet, the G800 is leveraging and building on the extensive flight test program of the newly certified Gulfstream G700.
The G800 provides the Gulfstream Cabin Experience with 100% fresh, never recirculated air purified by a plasma ionization clean air system; the lowest cabin altitude in business aviation; whisper-quiet sound levels; and light from 16 Gulfstream Panoramic Oval Windows, the largest in the industry.
The G800 is also equipped with the award-winning Gulfstream Symmetry Flight Deck, with the industry’s first active control sidesticks and most extensive use of touch-screen technology. In addition, the aircraft features the new Combined Vision System (CVS), including both Enhanced Flight Vision System (EFVS) and Synthetic Vision System (SVS) imagery on the dual head-up display (dual HUD) to increase pilot situational awareness and safety.
