Third G650 (T3) joins Gulfstream test fleet

Gulfstream has added a third flight test aircraft to its G650 certification fleet, T3 (c/n 6003) N603GD. The aircraft will be used primarily to measure aerodynamic loads and test the ultra-long range twin's PlaneView avionics and ice protection systems. PlaneView is based on Honeywell' Primus Epic integrated avionics suite. As of June 3, T3 had logged 10 flight hours.

Test aircraft T1 (s/n 6001) continues to perform envelope expansion tests while T2 (s/n 6002) is focused on system functionality, including environmental controls and hydraulics. The fourth aircraft, dubbed P1 (first production aircraft), was expected to fly for the first time late last month.

P1 will receive a full interior at Gulfstream's facility in Savannah before returning to the flight line for interior for cabin systems testing. P2, the fifth certification program aircraft, will be used primarily for reduced vertical separation testing.

Gulfstream in May achieved a top cruise speed of M0.925 with T1, boosting confidence that the G650, when certifiedas specified, will be the fastest production business aircraft in the world. Cessna currently holds that title with the M0.92 Citation X.

(John Croft - Flight Global News)