Gulfstream will deliver the first G280 aircraft before the end of the year to an unnamed US-based manufacturer with a worldwide presence, following the FAA certification achieved in September.

Originally known as the G250, the new model replaces the G200, which itself had evolved from the IAI Galaxy.

As with all Gulfstream aircraft, the G280 was designed with considerable input from Gulfstream customers who participate in the company's customer advisory board.

"Their contributions were invaluable in creating a super mid-sized aircraft that flies so far and so fast," says Pres Henne, senior vp programmes, engineering and test. "The G280, with a top speed of Mach 0.85, has already set four city-pair speed records. We anticipate it will set many, many more in the months and years to come thanks to its advanced wing design and its fuel-efficient Honeywell HTF250G engines, each of which delivers 7,445 pounds of thrust. The significant range and speed increase compared to the G200 is achieved while burning less fuel.

"In addition to the aircraft's tremendous performance capabil-ities, it offers the most comfortable cabin in its class with the Gulfstream-designed cabin manage-ment and audio/video distribution systems, industry-leading sound levels, 19 super-sized windows and in-flight access to the baggage compartment. We're extremely proud of this aircraft and know our customers will be, too," Henne says.

The aircraft has the longest seating area in its class, the company says, and a total cabin length of 25 feet, 10 inches. This additional space provides for a larger lavatory, an improved galley and increased storage. Customers can select from three interior floor plans, which seat from eight to 10 and berth up to four. All of them offer significant storage capabilities, with total storage of up to 154 cubic feet (4.63 cubic metres).

The significantly larger lavatory is accented by two windows, a contemporary sink with raised ledge, a full-length closet and a vacuum toilet system with overboard venting, the only system of its kind in this class of aircraft.

The cabin contains a larger, ergonomically designed galley that features an extra-large ice drawer with gasper-cooled storage, a sink with hot and cold water, and increased storage capacity.

Further contributing to the extraordinary cabin environment is an advanced environmental control system that provides 100 percent fresh air and a low cabin altitude: 7,000 feet (2,130 m) at FL450 and 6,000 feet (1,828 m) at FL410.

"Taken together, these amenities significantly reduce fatigue, increase mental alertness and enhance productivity," Henne says.

The aircraft has new seats, measuring 21 inches (53 cm) between the arm rests and featuring new styling details, a telescoping headrest with optional flexible wings, an articulating seat pan for full-flat berthing and an optional recliner-style leg rest.