General Dynamics’ Gulfstream G600 earns FAA certification

General Dynamics’ Gulfstream G600 has earned both its type and production certificates from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The certifications clear the way for the first completed G600 deliveries to customers as scheduled this year.

"Getting both authorizations on the same day [June 28, 2019] is evidence of the maturity of our G600 production processes and speaks to the safety and reliability of the aircraft's design," said Gulfstream president Mark Burns. "Even more remarkable is the fact that we achieved these simultaneous certifications less than a year after completing another major program, certifying and delivering the Gulfstream G500, another testament to the engineering expertise and manufacturing excellence that are hallmarks of Gulfstream. The hard work by our team, including nearly 100,000 hours of flying in our labs and more than 3,200 hours of flying in the air, shows our dedication to safety and our customers."

The FAA grants type certification after an aircraft's design proves compliance with aviation regulations. The FAA issues a production certificate once an aircraft manufacturer demonstrates its manufacturing facilities and quality management system meet the agency's stringent safety and reliability requirements.

The G600 is the third Gulfstream aircraft model to get its type and production certificates simultaneously. The first was the Gulfstream G550 on Aug. 14, 2003. The clean-sheet Gulfstream G500 duplicated the feat July 20, 2018.

The G600 flies 6,500nm (12,038km) at its long-range cruise speed of Mach 0.85. At its high-speed cruise of Mach 0.90, the G600 travels 5,500nm (10,186km). The aircraft has already earned 11 city-pair speed records, all at Mach 0.90. Its maximum operating speed is Mach 0.925.

The G600 features the Symmetry Flight Deck, which includes active control sidesticks and 10 touchscreens, both industry firsts. The aircraft's new interior earned top honors in Private Jet Design at the 2018 International Yacht & Aviation Awards. Its cabin can be configured for three living areas and a crew rest, and it offers a low cabin altitude with 100% fresh air to reduce fatigue and increase mental awareness. The G600's 14 panoramic oval windows let in an abundance of natural light.