Aerospace

ALL-NEW GULFSTREAM G800 MAKES FIRST FLIGHT.

Industry’s Longest-Range Aircraft Demonstrates Program Maturity, Launches Flight-Test Program.

Today, Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. reported that the brand-new, ultra long-range Gulfstream G800 had completed its first flight safely. This signified the official beginning of the flight-testing phase and company’s longest-range aircraft. The G800, which was announced in October 2021, is the newest member of Gulfstream’s next-generation fleet to take flight and move closer to customer deliveries.

The G800 took off from Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport at 9:00 am and arrived there two hours later. The aircraft completed the journey using a combination of sustainable aviation fuel, continuing with Gulfstream’s dedication to sustainability leadership in the aviation.

Gulfstream President Mark Burns stated, “We altered the game once again for our industry when the first G800 test aircraft rolled out at our announcement last fall. Gulfstream is able to build on its successes and create aircraft that go beyond client expectations ,because of its close customer relationships. With Gulfstream-designed aerodynamics and cabin technology, the G800 pushes the boundaries of performance even further. We expect that our customers will enjoy from the longer range at higher speeds in our exceptional cabin environment.

The G800’s advanced high-speed wing, designed by Gulfstream, and brand-new, high-thrust Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 engines allow it to travel 8,000 nautical miles (14,816 km) at Mach 0.85 and 7,000 nm (12,964 km) at Mach 0.90 with class-leading fuel efficiency. The G800 also features the latest in Gulfstream cabin technology and comfort, such as hand-crafted ergonomic seats, a high-definition circadian lighting system, 100% fresh air that is never recirculated, the lowest cabin altitude in the industry, a plasma-ionization air purification system, and 16 of the largest windows in the business. The G800 includes up to four living areas, or three living areas with a crew compartment, and it is able to accommodate up to 19 passengers.

The G800 is equipped with Gulfstream’s latest Symmetry Flight Deck and dual head-up displays with the new Combined Vision System, which integrates imagery from the Enhanced Flight Vision System and Synthetic Vision System, further enhancing safety and pilot situational awareness.

“In the last decade, we’ve announced eight new aircraft, all strategically timed to capitalise on market demand,” said Burns. “The G800 is generating a lot of interest, and this first flight brings us even closer to delivering a Gulfstream for every mission.”

Aerospace

When Ratan Tata was denied entry to the airfield at the Aero India show, he waited

During our visit to Aero India 2019, we had the unexpected opportunity to see Ratan Tata at the event, which was a thrilling moment for us. However, there was a surprising hiccup when the security staff didn’t allow him to enter due to a lack of a security pass.

Despite this, he remained calm and patiently waited for about 20 minutes until a member of the Tata team brought him the required pass, after which he calmly proceeded inside. It was a humbling sight, showcasing his composed demeanor even in such situations.

Ratan Tata ji is not only a renowned industrialist but also a trained pilot, holding a pilot’s license. In 2007, he became the first Indian civilian to fly the F-16 Falcon during the Aero India show in Bangalore—a proud moment for the nation.

His passion for aviation extended beyond flying, as he played a key role in shaping India’s aerospace industry. Under his leadership, Tata ventured into manufacturing and maintaining aerospace components while upholding its legacy of quality. Notably, Tata’s collaboration with Airbus to develop and manufacture the C295 aircraft is a testament to its growing influence in the sector.