When the Gulfstream G800 hits the market next year, it’ll become the longest-range business jet in the world, with a maximum operating range of 8,000 nautical miles (a little more than 9000 miles). Slated to replace the aircraft manufacturer’s highly popular G650 business jet, the upcoming G800 perfectly demonstrates Gulfstream’s commitment to developing technologies to make aviation more efficient and sustainable. The American company’s constant pursuit to push the boundaries of innovation with its products has helped it cement its commanding position in the industry, and the G800 is no different. Equipped with the latest technologies to minimize fuel consumption and offer improved performance, the new business jet has all the attributes to become a segment favorite. And the timing couldn’t have been better, either! Over the last couple of years, business jet travel has witnessed a meteoric rise, especially after the travel restrictions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. There are reports that suggest that business and private aircraft sales will reach nearly $35 billion by the end of 2023. Let’s have a closer look at why the Gulfstream G800 is being touted as the most anticipated business jet.
Performance and range
The G800 was unveiled by Gulfstream on October 4, 2021, with an aggressive timeline. To help accelerate the aircraft’s development, the American manufacturer planned on leveraging the testing already performed on the G700. In fact, the upcoming business jet features the G700 wing and is powered by the same Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 engines. Each jet engine is capable of producing up to 18,250 lbs. of thrust, resulting in a total maximum output of 36,500 lbs. of thrust. According to Gulfstream, the G800 can reach a maximum speed of Mach 0.925 and a high-speed cruise figure of Mach 0.90.
However, the highlight of the upcoming business jet is its unmatched range. Cruising at Mach 0.85, the G800 can fly non-stop for 8,000 nautical miles. Thanks to its ultra-long range, the business jet can fly to most of the major business hubs across the globe without stops. Furthermore, the G800 is 18% more fuel efficient than the G650, thanks to the more efficient engines, the aerodynamic wing design, and an all-new winglet. What’s also highly impressive is its 6000 feet take-off distance.
Comfort
While range is a major determining factor for the sale of a business jet, the in-cabin comfort on offer is equally important, and the G800 scores high on this aspect as well. Its cabin is 10 ft shorter than the G700’s, with two fewer windows per side. In fact, the G800 has the exact interior dimensions as the G650ER, measuring 53 feet in length, a cabin height of 6.25 feet, and a cabin width of 8.2 feet.
The aircraft can accommodate up to 19 passengers or comfortably sleep ten when configured with four living areas. The cabin also gets 16 “largest in the industry” windows that allow natural light to flood inside the G800. Additionally, not only does it feature industry-leading quiet cabin noise levels but also offers its passengers a 100% fresh air cabin experience, never-recirculated air, and lowest cabin altitude in the class.
Price and availability
Despite an aggressive schedule, Gulfstream has been able to stick to its timeline for the G800. The G800 first flew on June 28, 2022, and the required certifications are well underway. The Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 engines received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification a few months back. Gulfstream believes that the G800 will be ready to hit the market in early 2024. Regarding the pricing, it is one of the most expensive business jets in its class, with a starting price of $72.5 million. With optional extras and customizations added by the buyer, the actual price would be much higher.
