Fast and high, Gulfstream's G700 expands its envelope

Gulfstream's new flagship G700 has flown in excess of its maximum operating speed and altitude as flight testing passes the hundred mission mark. Flutter testing has been completed.

Gulfstream's G700 flight test program is making progress, with a number of accomplishments in testing and performance.

It has flown more than 100 test flights, recently completed company flutter testing and expanded the flight envelope at both high and low speeds. As part of Gulfstream's testing efforts, the aircraft also flew beyond its maximum operating speed and cruise altitude, reaching Mach 0.99 and an altitude of 54,000 feet/16,459 metres. In typical operations, the G700 has a maximum operating speed of Mach 0.925 and a maximum cruise altitude of 51,000 ft/15,545 m.

"These accomplishments at this stage in flight test point to the impressive maturity of the G700 program," says Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. "We designed and developed the G700 for our customers to fly safely, securely and efficiently while enjoying the same level of comfort as they do on the ground. With the largest galley in the industry, the utmost in technology, and the finest, freshest cabin environment, the G700 unlocks new opportunities in business jet travel."

The G700 is powered by Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 engines and includes the Gulfstream Symmetry Flight Deck with the industry's only electronically linked active control sidesticks, the most extensive use of touch-screen technology in business aviation, and Gulfstream's award-winning Predictive Landing Performance System.