Gulfstream G800
Overview
The Gulfstream G800 is a prized aircraft in the portfolio of Gulfstream Aerospace. Introduced as the longest-range business jet in October 2021, the aircraft is capable of flying 8,000 nautical miles (14,816 kilometres) at Mach 0.85 without refuelling. This range enables nonstop flights between city pairs such as New York to Hong Kong, London to Buenos Aires, and Dubai to Honolulu, offering unparalleled connectivity for global travellers.
Cabin Experience
The aircraft’s cabin is meticulously designed to offer an oasis of comfort and functionality. Spanning up to four distinct living areas, it accommodates up to 19 passengers and provides sleeping arrangements for up to 10 individuals. The cabin’s dimensions—1.91 meters in height, 2.49 meters in width, and 14.27 meters in length—create a spacious environment conducive to both productivity and relaxation, providing unparalleled comfort and flexibility.
It is a sheer delight to see natural light peeping through sixteen panoramic oval windows, the largest in the industry, enhancing the sense of openness and connection to the outside world. The cabin maintains a low altitude of 889 metres at a cruising altitude of 12,497 metres, reducing passenger fatigue and promoting well-being. Further, passengers enjoy a healthy and comfortable environment through a 100 per cent fresh air system, renewed every two to three minutes and purified by a plasma-ionisation clean air system.
Technology (Engine and Avionics)
Powered by two efficient Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 engines, each delivering 81.20 kN of thrust, the aircraft achieves a high-speed cruise of Mach 0.90 and a maximum operating speed of Mach 0.925.
At the heart of the aircraft’s technological prowess lies the Gulfstream Symmetry Flight Deck™, featuring ten touchscreen displays and active control sidesticks—an industry first. This setup enhances pilot communication, and reduces workload, contributing to safer and more efficient operations. The Combined Vision System (CVS), integrating Enhanced Flight Vision System (EFVS) and Synthetic Vision System (SVS), provides pilots with a comprehensive view of the environment, improving situational awareness and providing access to more airports.
The aircraft’s aerodynamic wing design not only delivers impressive speed and range but also contributes to fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, aligning with Gulfstream’s commitment to sustainability.
Performance
The aircraft delivers exceptional performance, setting new standards in the ultra-long-range business jet category. Its impressive range of 8,000 nautical miles at Mach 0.85 allows for nonstop flights between distant city pairs, such as Los Angeles to Sydney or Dubai to New York. The aircraft’s high-speed cruise capability of Mach 0.90 enables faster travel, saving valuable time on long-haul flights. Its take-off distance of 1,829 meters and initial cruise altitude of 12,497 meters, ascending to a maximum of 15,545 meters, ensure swift and efficient climbs above commercial traffic and weather disturbances.
Positioned as a flagship in Gulfstream’s lineup, the aircraft carries a base price of approximately $71.5 million, reflecting its advanced capabilities and luxurious offerings. Operating costs are a critical consideration for potential owners and operators. Annual fixed costs, encompassing insurance, maintenance, storage, personnel, and training, are estimated at around $1.43 million. Variable costs, including fuel, maintenance, and trip-related expenses, average approximately $7,976 per flight hour. For instance, operating the aircraft for 200 hours annually would result in total costs nearing $3.02 million.
These figures underscore the G800’s positioning as a premium offering in the ultra-long-range business jet market, catering to clients who prioritise performance, comfort, and global reach.
Specifications (2024 Certified Configuration)
| Category | Metric | Imperial |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length | 30.40 m | 99 ft 9 in |
| Wingspan | 31.39 m | 103 ft |
| Height | 7.78 m | 25 ft 6 in |
| Cabin | ||
| Length (excluding baggage) | 14.27 m | 46 ft 10 in |
| Width | 2.49 m | 8 ft 2 in |
| Height | 1.91 m | 6 ft 3 in |
| Cabin Volume | 60.54 cu m | 2,139 cu ft |
| Baggage Volume | 5.52 cu m | 195 cu ft |
| Performance | ||
| Maximum Range | 14,816 km | 8,000 NM |
| High-Speed Cruise | Mach 0.90 | Mach 0.90 |
| Long-Range Cruise | Mach 0.85 | Mach 0.85 |
| Maximum Operating Mach Number | Mach 0.925 | Mach 0.925 |
| Take-off Distance | 1,829 m | 6,000 ft |
| Initial Cruise Altitude | 12,497 m | 41,000 ft |
| Maximum Cruise Altitude | 15,545 m | 51,000 ft |
| Weights | ||
| Maximum Take-off Weight | 47,899 kg | 105,000 lb |
| Maximum Landing Weight | 37,875 kg | 83,500 lb |
| Maximum Zero Fuel Weight | 27,442 kg | 60,500 lb |
| Basic Operating Weight | 24,630 kg | 54,300 lb |
| Maximum Payload | 2,812 kg | 6,200 lb |
| Maximum Payload with Full Fuel | 1,043 kg | 2,300 lb |
| Maximum Fuel Capacity | 22,407 kg | 49,400 lb |
| Engines | ||
| Model | Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 | Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 |
| Thrust (each) | 81.20 kN | 18,250 lbf |
| Avionics | ||
| Flight Deck | Gulfstream Symmetry Flight Deck™ | Gulfstream Symmetry Flight Deck™ |
Key Takeaways
The Gulfstream G800 redefines the possibilities of business travel, offering unmatched range, speed, and comfort. Its advanced avionics, efficient performance, and luxurious cabin make it a formidable contender in the ultra-long-range jet segment. With its recent certifications from the FAA and EASA, the aircraft is poised to enter service, providing business travellers with a new benchmark in global connectivity and in-flight experience.
