Fourth G650 starts flight testing

Gulfstream Aerospace has announced that the fourth G650 made its first flight on June 6, joining three other aircraft involved in the flight test campaign for the new type.

The aircraft, MSN 6004, will be the first G650 outfitted and tested with a full interior, which will be installed later this northern summer and used to evaluate the aircraft’s cabin systems.

“We’re delighted with the performance we’re seeing out of these aircraft,” said Pres Henne, senior vice president of programs, engineering and test, Gulfstream. “We’re equally thrilled with the streamlined manufacturing process, which involves 50 per cent fewer parts, bonded materials and precision build carts, which allow us to easily put aircraft pieces together. Our use of these advanced materials and systems – along with the three-dimensional solid models we utilised in the design process – have provided impressive results. We couldn’t be more pleased.”

The ultra-long range, ultra large cabin G650 was launched in March 2008 and is due to achieve FAA and EASA certification in 2011. Entry into service is expected in 2012.