Gulfstream announces the new G500 and G600 series aircraft

Gulfstream is taking aim at new models in development by rival Dassault and at Bombardier’s Global 6000 by launching a pair of business jets on the eve of the NBAA gathering in Orlando, Florida.

(Gulfstream)

The G500 will run against the Dassault Falcon 5X, while the G600 takes on ultra-long-range contenders the Falcon 8X and Global 6000. Describing the aircraft as “the dawn of a new era in flightdeck design, integration, functionality, ergonomics and even aesthetics“, Gulfstream is also packing in new technology including enhanced and synthetic vision and fly-by-wire flight control systems, with active control side-sticks, auto-brake, auto-throttles, emergency descent mode and avionics.

(Gulfstream)

The 6,200nm-range (11,500km) G600 will feature two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW815GAs at 15,700lb-thrust (69.8kN).

The 5,000nm-range G500 will be powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW814GAs at 15,100lb-thrust.

Both models will boast a 2.13m wide and 1.88m high cabin, with a capacity to seat up to 19 passengers.

The G500 will be first to market. Maiden flight is scheduled for 2015 leading to US and European certification in 2017 and service entry the following year.

The G600 flight-test program will begin between 12 to 18 months after the G500’s, says Gulfstream, with entry-into-service projected for 2019.

Gulfstream now boasts a family of eight business jets; all positioned in the top half of the business aircraft sector. These range from the 3,000nm midsize G150 to the 7,500nm G650ER, which is scheduled to enter service later this year.

(Stephen Trimble - Flight Global News)