Second Gulfstream G800 Takes Off
Second Gulfstream G800 Test Aircraft Successfully Completed Its First Flight on July 15, 2023 - Photo credit: Gulfstream
Gulfstream Aerospace recently announced the successful first flight of its second Gulfstream G800 flight test aircraft. Departing from Gulfstream's headquarters in Savannah, the aircraft took to the skies utilizing a 30/70 blend of sustainable aviation fuel. This milestone signifies a significant step forward in the G800's journey toward certification and eventual delivery to customers.
On Saturday, July 15, at 9:27 a.m., the G800 took off for its first flight, lasting 3 hours and 26 minutes, and an impressive top speed of Mach 0.935.
Test flight of the second Gulfstream G800 tracked via RadarBox.com
Mark Burns, President of Gulfstream, expressed his satisfaction with the progress made by the company's flight test team, stating, "Gulfstream's flight test team continues to make advanced strides forward for our company," said Mark. "The G800 will bring the industry's longest range to customers around the world, and we are seeing strong demand for this capability alongside cabin comfort and quality Gulfstream is known for."
Dedicated to testing environmental control systems, avionics, and flight controls, the second G800 flight test aircraft builds upon the accomplishments of its predecessor, which has already completed over 1,600 test points.
"Thanks to the design philosophy behind our next-generation fleet, the G800 is also benefiting from the excellent progress we continue to make in the Gulfstream G700 flight test program," Burns said. "This commonality helps us enhance efficiency and reliability for our customers, who are already seeing firsthand how well these aircraft perform."
The G800 boasts impressive specifications, including a range of 8,000 nautical miles/14,816 kilometers at Mach 0.85 and 7,000 nm/12,964 km at Mach 0.90. Designed to accommodate up to 19 passengers, the G800 offers the flexibility of four or three living areas alongside a crew compartment, ensuring a comfortable and luxurious travel experience.
Certification Programs for Gulfstream G700 and G800 Face Delays Due to FAA Scrutiny and Staffing Shortages. According to executives, the certification programs for Gulfstream's G700 and G800 aircraft have experienced delays due to heightened scrutiny by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Additionally, Gulfstream President Mark Burns has attributed the delays to the FAA's certification team facing staffing shortages.
In May, Gulfstream announced further adjustments to the timelines. During that time, Burns expressed his optimism for FAA approval of the G700 in the autumn, followed by G800 certification in early 2024.
"We are somewhat dependent on our regulatory authorities," commented Burns on the situation. Alongside the G700 and G800, Gulfstream continues developing the smaller G400 model based on its G500 and G600 aircraft. The company plans to commence deliveries of the G400, featuring an advertised range of 4,200 nautical miles, in 2025.
