The Gulfstream G600 is nearing the end of function and reliability (F&R) testing, the final stage of flying required for aircraft type certification by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

“Once we finish F&R testing, the only thing left is the FAA's final paperwork review,” says Gulfstream president Mark Burns. “Both certification and entry into service are just around the corner, so we're excited to be close to delivering this high-performing, technologically advanced aircraft to customers.

“The rigour and discipline of our new G600 development programme is unmatched. Our unique programme includes nearly 100,000 hours of flying in our research and development labs environment and more than 3,170 hours of flying in the air, producing reliable aircraft with an exceptional degree of maturity. That was our unique formula for success with the G500 and is for the G600 as well.”

The G600 completed certification tests for flight into known icing in March, with F&R testing beginning in May. During F&R testing, the G600 will demonstrate that the aircraft, including its components and systems, is reliable and functioning properly. The testing covers a range of flight conditions, including hot and cold temperatures; low and high humidity; day and night operations; low and high field operations; and varying weather.

Gulfstream has demonstrated the capabilities and maturity of the G600 since the first aircraft flew on 17 December, 2016. To date, the five G600 aircraft in the flight test programme have completed more than 845 flights.

The G600, which features three living areas and a crew rest, earned a 2018 International Yacht & Aviation Award for Private Jet Design. The aircraft has already flown 11 city-pair speed records and can fly 5,500 nm at its high-speed cruise of Mach 0.90, connecting Hong Kong to Vienna.