Gulfstream update G500 & G600 progress

The Gulfstream G500 and G600 flying in formation.

Gulfstream say that they are progressing well with their new G500 and G600 programs with the company saying that they have achieved several milestones.

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With two of the the G500 test aircraft completed, Gulfstream are now working towards completing the other three aircraft that will be used in the flight test campaign.

Having completed their operational checks, both completed G500s are working towards their first flights, with the aircraft currently undergoing taxi validation tests.

“Thanks to the hard work, commitment and innovation of our employees, we’ve already achieved several program milestones,” says Gulfstream senior vice president, programs, engineering and test, Dan Nale.

Gulfstream announced both the G500 and G600 during a special ceremony at its Savannah homebase in October 2014, with the G500 rolling into view under it’s own power.

In a departure from its normal choice of engine suppliers, Gulfstream chose to use Pratt & Whitney Canada to supply engines for both new aircraft.

The newly designed engines fall into the PW800 series, with the PW814GA powering the G500 and the PW815GA powering the G600.

Both engines gained certification earlier in the year, with Pratt & Whitney Canada’s president John Saabas saying “Transport Canada type certification of the PurePower PW814GA and PW815GA engines as well as Gulfstream’s selection of the PurePower PW800 family represent major achievements for P&WC. We are very proud to power Gulfstream’s new business jet family.”

Gulfstream say that the G600 is also progressing well, with the first aircraft currently being built. Gulfstream say they will use four aircraft for the test flight program.

The G500 is expected to gain certification in 2017 with entry into service the following year, while the G600 is expected to receive its certification in 2018, with deliveries to begin in 2019.