It makes sense for celebrities to own or use private jets when they need to travel in style and discretely to get to where their fans or business call them on time. The Gulfstream G650 is one aircraft that seems to catch the eyes of most celebrities. Among those celebrities is the co-founder, chairman, and CEO of Facebook, Mark Zuckerberg.

For a wealthy CEO like Mark Zuckerberg, traveling for business events might be the order of his day. That’s why he uses the G650, as it has a long range, which means he can travel conveniently without making stops. This aircraft is equipped with WiFi and entertainment systems that suit wealthy celebrities like him, making a home away from home in the sky. Gulfstream is also at the forefront of ensuring sustainability by being the first aircraft to fly on 100% SAV fuel. The aircraft is also as reputable as the users for being the most reliable long-range business jet in the market.

Why the G650?

The Gulfstream G650 is FAA-registered and the perfect choice for many high-profile figures for good reasons.

  • It’s an award-winning aircraft: In 2014, the National Aeronautic Association awarded the aircraft a trophy that recognized its achievements in aeronautics or astronautics in America.
  • Convenience: This aircraft gives its passengers peace of mind as they fly as the aircraft flies over 7,500 miles nonstop. This allows Zuckerberg to travel between continents without stopping. For instance, the youngest billionaire, at 23, recently hopped onto his jet, which took him to his launchpad as he flew to Panama for his birthday. Using the private jet made his travel schedule flexible and on time to blow his 40th candle.
  • Speed: Time is of the essence for G650 passengers. This aircraft is powered by two engines from Rolls Royce, delivering speeds up to Mach 0.925. This speed allows it to fly at over 650 miles per hour at an altitude of 51,000 feet.
  • Efficient: The G650’s operators enjoy its efficiency sitting in a cabin akin to a private jet apt for a billionaire. It accommodates plush custom interiors, entertainment, food service, and more.
Gulfstream G650

Photo: Gulfstream 

  • Privacy: More importantly, Mark Zuckerberg and other celebrities travel in privacy without the prying eyes of the paparazzi. Its windows can be darkened, and there are additional security measures in place to give assurance.
  • Customizable windows: On daytime flights, the G650’s generous windows allow sunlight through, reducing the need for artificial lighting. The large windows also offer a view to admire landscapes and city skylines from the flight level.
  • Clean air: Gulfstream’s advanced air filtration system introduces fully refreshed and purified air into the plane cabin every 2-3 minutes. Not only does it deliver fresh air, but its ionization technology actively cleans the air by neutralizing allergens and viruses, giving the ultimate airborne retreat.

The Gulfstream G650ER: An Overview

The G650ER is an ultra-long-range business jet that boasts impressive specifications:

Performance

Maximum Range

7,000 NM (12,964 km)

High-Speed Cruise

Mach 0.90

Long-Range Cruise

Mach 0.85

Maximum Operating Mach Number

Mach 0.925

Takeoff Distance (SL, ISA, MTOW)

1,786 m (5,858 ft)

Initial Cruise Altitude

12,497 m (41,000 ft)

Wingspan

99 feet, 7 inches

Cabin

Living Areas

Up to 4

Seats

Up to 19

Sleeps

Up to 10

Cabin Altitude

1,003 m (3,290 ft) at 12,497 m (41,000 ft)

Gulfstream Panoramic Oval Windows

16

Vacuum Lavatory

Forward and aft

Weights

Maximum Takeoff

45,178 kg (99,600 lb)

Maximum Landing

37,875 kg (83,500 lb)

Maximum Zero Fuel

27,442 kg (60,500 lb)

Basic Operating (including four crew)

24,494 kg (54,000 lb)

Systems

Avionomics

Gulfstream PlaneView II

Engines

Two Rolls-Royce BR725 engines

Rated Takeoff Thrust (each)

75.20 kN (16,900 lb)

G650 interior for dining

Photo: Gulfstream

G650 security

As one of the richest people in the world, Zuckerberg must have security measures. He has designated airport terminals and relies on private runways for discretion when flying internationally. The billionaire CEO lands his G650 at Monterey Peninsula Airport, Moffett Federal Airfield, and Truckee Tahoe Airport.

The G650 is also serious about protecting passenger privacy and preventing aircraft tracking, such as what occurred with Taylor Swift’s jet. A student tracked her jet, putting her flight information in the spotlight.

G650 turns off its Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) system, which broadcasts real-time location data. It also has an intrusion communications system that sends alerts via the operator’s mobile device. The aircraft has access controls that require biometric authentication to keep intruders out.

Surveillance sensors and satellite communications increase awareness and give operators the ability to call for help. Combining these measures makes the G650 a secure private jet.

Gulfstream sustainability efforts

With great power comes great responsibility, and Gulfstream has proven its responsibility for sustainability. Its engines have materials and thermal management designs to minimize fuel burn and emissions. Additionally, they keep improving the G650 to reduce its environmental impact.

“Gulfstream is innovating for a sustainable future. One of the keys to reaching business aviation’s long-term decarbonization goals is the broad use of SAF in place of fossil-based jet fuel. The completion of this world-class flight helps to advance business aviation’s overarching sustainability mission and create positive environmental impacts for future generations.” Mark Burns, the president of Gulfstream, made these remarks after Gulfstream completed a trans-Atlantic test flight on sustainable aviation fuel in 2021.

By conducting the first-ever flight on 100% SAF, Gulfstream gathered valuable performance data on the fuel. It also demonstrated that its jets can operate on SAF rather than just conventional fuel. Through their commitment to supporting sustainability, it came as no surprise when Gulfstream landed an opportunity to moderate sustainability talks at the Irish Bizaz conference in 2023.

The Gulfstream G650: flying high

Every celebrity prefers private jets because they’re luxurious and comfortable. The Gulfstream takes this a notch higher as it’s the most advanced aircraft with features that make any celebrity want to be associated with it. A wealthy billionaire like the CEO of Meta chooses to fly in the G650 because it has proven itself to perform.

This Ferrari of the skies is reliable in speed, safety, discretion, and pilot amenities. It allows celebrities to fly to different cities without refueling.

With its readiness to make the world a more sustainable place, we can only imagine how far further up it will continue soaring. Again, incorporating modern technology for safety and efficiency may continue to keep this long-range plane ahead. With ongoing upgrades to its flight systems, operators can only hold their breath as performance improves.

The future of the G650 promises better performance, more achievements, and awards. The G650ER pushes boundaries in corporate aviation and is a symbol of luxury embedded in sustainability.

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