Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. announced today that the third ultra-large-cabin, ultra-long-range Gulfstream G650 has joined the flight-test program for the company's flagship model, accumulating 10 hours of flight time.

The third test aircraft is thoroughly instrumented for measurement of aerodynamic loads and ice-protection system performance. Additionally, the aircraft is the primary test bed for the G650 avionics systems, including the latest features of Gulfstream's PlaneViewTM cockpit and new technology, such as an advanced back-up instrument display that also serves as a control panel for multiple functions.

"The addition of the third test aircraft to the fleet means the test pace is picking up, with development and certification flight activities quickly advancing," said Pres Henne, senior vice president, Programs, Engineering and Test, Gulfstream. "In addition, Gulfstream Product Support is engaged in the engineering development and test-aircraft operations to ensure a smooth entry-into-service for our customers. There are a variety of internal organizations and suppliers directly involved in the development of the G650, and their support is instrumental in the success of the program."

The G650 flight-test program involves five aircraft performing an estimated 1,800 hours of testing. Each aircraft is used for a specific series of tests with S/N 6001 focused on performance and flight controls, S/N 6002 on systems and S/N 6003 on avionics, in-flight load measurement and the ice-protection system. The two production aircraft in the test program - S/N 6004 and S/N 6005 - will be used to evaluate interior systems and be part of the reduced vertical separation minimum (RVSM) testing. The testing explores the accuracy of the aircraft's altimeter system, which is used to support the aircraft's operation in controlled airspace with reduced vertical separation.