Summary
- Gulfstream G800, an ultra-long-haul business jet, boasts an operational range of 8,000 NM and is set to receive its FAA type certification in 2023, with first deliveries following soon after.
- The G800 is designed to replace the G650 and is powered by two Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 engines, achieving speeds of up to Mach 0.93 and flying up to 8,000 NM nonstop.
- The G800 certification process benefits from its commonality with the G700, and the aircraft features a brand-new high-speed wing for optimal fuel efficiency.
The Gulfstream G800 is the latest member of the company’s line of ultra-long-haul business jets boasting an operational range of 8,000 NM (14,800 km). First introduced during the NBAA convention in October 2021, the manufacturer initially planned the G800’s entry into service in 2023.
Following some early program delays, Gulfstream pushed the jet’s certification to early 2024 and the first deliveries right after. However, delays with the G700 pushed the certification further back. Gulfstream remains confident that the aircraft will receive its Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) type certification this year and that the first deliveries will commence soon after.
The Gulfstream G800
Much superior cabin
- Finished Cabin Height: 6 ft 3 in
- Finished Cabin Width: 8 ft 2 in
- Cabin Length (excluding baggage): 46 ft 10 in
- Total Interior Length: 53 ft 7 in
- Cabin Volume: 2,138 cu ft
- Baggage Compartment Volume: 195 cu ft
- Living Areas: Up to 4
- Seats: Up to 19
- Sleeps: Up to 10
- Cabin Altitude: 2,916 ft at 41,000 ft
- Gulfstream Panoramic Oval Windows: 16
- Galley: Forward
- Vacuum Lavatory: Forward and Aft
The G800 is slightly shorter than the G700 and is designed to replace the G650. Powered by two Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 engines, the fuel-efficient jet can achieve speeds of up to Mach 0.93 and fly up to 8,000 NM (14,816 km) nonstop.
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The Gulfstream G800 is expected to enter service this year.
According to Gulfstream Aerospace,
“The G800 is a marvel of performance and efficiency as it cruises for a globe-sweeping 8,000 nm/14,816 km at Mach 0.85. Extend your reach to more people and places around the world in a single flight.”
“The G800 links you nonstop to more destinations around the world than any other business aircraft. As you fly greater distances at top speeds, you gain time, the most precious commodity of all. Gulfstream’s high-speed range advantage can save you up to 1.5 hours on flights longer than 6,500 nm/12,038 km.”
Photo: Gulfstream Aerospace
Accelerated certification process
G800 performance parameters
- Maximum Range: 8,000 NM
- High-Speed Cruise: Mach 0.90
- Long-Range Cruise: Mach 0.85
- Maximum Operating Mach Number (Mmo): Mach 0.925
- Takeoff Distance (SL, ISA, MTOW): 6,000 ft
- Initial Cruise Altitude: 41,000 ft
- Maximum Cruise Altitude: 51,000 ft
The G800 certification process benefits from its commonality with the G700, particularly the airframe, systems, components, and controls. Gulfstream claims that the G700’s five-aircraft fleet has already done the heavy lifting for the G800, thanks to the similarities between the two aircraft.
The G700 followed a comprehensive certification process, including performance tests from a range of flights on test aircraft. The late-2023 certification of the G700 meant the G800 did not have to go through some (similar) test regimes.
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Passengers aboard the G800 will enjoy best-in-class range, speed, and comfort.
Gulfstream anticipated the certification of the G800 approximately nine months after the G700 was certified. However, delays with the longer sibling led to further pushback on the G800. Nonetheless, things seem to have been streamlined with the manufacturer and the certification and the entry into service of the G800 is planned by the end of the year.
Other causes of delays
The G800 features a brand-new high-speed wing (and winglet) to ensure optimal fuel efficiency. The wing design lowers lift-induced drag at low speeds and high angles of attack (during takeoff, initial climb, and approach). Moreover, wave drag is reduced at transonic speeds due to the delayed onset of the turbulent boundary layer over the wing.
Due to the new wing, the aircraft has to undergo rigorous test procedures, further delaying the certification process. Apart from structural strength and fatigue testing of the wing, the certification also relies on wing performance at various phases of flight. The President of Gulfstream, Mark Burns, said in a statement reported by Gulfstream News,
“The G800 presents a compelling combination of high-speed aerodynamics and fuel-efficient engines to decrease emissions and save flying time for our customers. Equipped with our latest advancements in technology and innovation, the G800 adds the industry’s longest range to our aircraft portfolio.”
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The need for speed?
In September last year, the Pearl 700 engines received the FAA certification, bringing the G800 program one step closer to entry into service and customer deliveries. Burns commented during the event,
“We are excited about this latest advancement towards G700 and G800 certification. The G700 and G800 are introducing new standards for efficiency and performance in the business aviation industry thanks to the combination of Gulfstream aerodynamics and the Pearl 700’s efficiencies. We are seeing great demand for the technology, cabin comfort and ultra-long-range capabilities the G700 and G800 will provide our customers.”
The G800 shares cabin size with the G650 but features a spacious interior with up to four living areas. The manufacturer offers a variety of customized options for customers, enabling high levels of flexibility and comfort. The G-800 is priced at $72.5 million.
What are your thoughts on the certification delays and timeline of Gulfstream’s forthcoming ultra-long-haul aircraft? Share your views in the comments section.