Gulfstream Aerospace has carried out the first test flight of its new G500 business jet.
The aircraft – N500GA – took off from Savannah, Georgia yesterday at 10:39 local time for a 2h15min flight, climbing to an initial altitude of 10,500ft and reaching a maximum altitude of 15,000ft. The G500 reached a maximum air speed of 194 knots.
During the flight, the crew exercised all primary flight control systems, evaluated handling qualities in takeoff and landing configurations, performed a simulated approach and go-around, and checked all systems using the Symmetry flightdeck touchscreen controllers.
The G500 flight-test programme consists of five aircraft, including a fully outfitted production aircraft that will allow the company to test all the interior elements and complete integration of the aircraft systems with the passenger experience.
Gulfstream unveiled the G500 at its Savannah headquarters on 14 October alongside the longer-range G600. The 5,000nm (9,260km) G500 is powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada PW814GA engines.
The aircraft is expected to receive type certification from the US FAA and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) in 2017. It is scheduled to enter service in 2018.
Source: Flight Daily News
