Bombardier's second flight test vehicle for the Global 7000 has completed its maiden flight, putting the programme on track to enter into service in the second half of 2018.

During a four hour and 28 minute flight, the aircraft's propulsion, electrical and mechanical systems were all tested for functionality.

“The successful flight of the first test vehicle in November 2016 paved the way for this one,” states senior VP of the 7000 and 8000 programme Michel Ouellette. “We are focused on meeting the programme's development and certification schedule and, once again, we have demonstrated our ability to deliver results through the hard work and dedication of the highly skilled teams involved here.

VP of product development and chief engineer Francois Caza adds: “We now have a flight test vehicle dedicated to testing the aircraft's systems. Data from this vehicle will supplement the successful results we have already obtained from test rigs, including the integrated systems test and certification rig. We are on track and are very pleased with the progress and performance to date. The dedication and collaboration our teams have shown were critical.”

The Global 7000 is one of the only business jets with four living spaces and a dedicated crew rest area. It has steep approach capability and short field performance and will be able to access London City airport.

It will be able to connect London and Singapore, Dubai and New York City or Sydney and San Francisco non-stop, with a maximum operating speed of Mach 0.925. With eight passengers it is expected to travel 7,400 nm at Mach 0.85.