Gulfstream' G500 and Gulfstream G600 have demonstrated additional range capabilities through real-time operations.
The newly increased range for the G500 and G600 apply to both the high-speed cruise of Mach 0.90 and the long-range cruise speed of Mach 0.85. The G500 now delivers 5,300 nm at Mach 0.85 and 4,500 nm at Mach 0.90. The G600's range at Mach 0.85 has improved to 6,600 nm and 5,600 nm at Mach 0.90.
“The G500 and G600 have been exceeding expectations since they entered service,” says Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “This latest demonstrated range increase provides further proof of the tremendous efficiency and versatility of these aircraft. The Gulfstream team is always looking for opportunities to improve aircraft capabilities and the customer experience, and we are pleased to deliver another performance enhancement for both existing and future customers.”
In addition to the range increases, the G600 now delivers greater payload capacity with full fuel. As a result of Gulfstream's manufacturing and precision-build expertise, the G600's basic operating weight has been reduced by 570 pounds over original values, bringing its full-fuel payload capabilities up to 2,600 pounds. “What's exciting for our existing customers is that these improvements already exist on their in-service aircraft with no modifications required,” Burns adds.
During the flight-test programme for the G500 and G600, both aircraft exceeded initial performance expectations with increased range capabilities. The G600 achieved a second high-speed cruise range increase before it entered service, gaining 700 nm over original projections. The maximum operating speed of both aircraft is Mach 0.925.