The all-new Gulfstream G600 has earned both its type and production certificates from the US FAA. The certifications clear the way for Gulfstream Aerospace to begin the first deliveries to customers as scheduled this year.

“Getting both authorisations on the same day is evidence of the maturity of our G600 production processes and speaks to the safety and reliability of the aircraft’s design,” says president Mark Burns. “Even more remarkable is the fact that we achieved these simultaneous certif-ications less than a year after completing another major prog-ramme, 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.

“These rigorous and thorough certification processes ensure we deliver a first-rate aircraft that exceeds expectations. We can’t wait to put the newest member of our aircraft family, one that spectacularly combines performance, efficiency, technology and comfort that are second to none, into the hands of our worldwide customers.”

The FAA grants type certification after an aircraft’s design proves compliant with aviation regulations. A production certificate is issued once a manufacturer demonstrates that 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 simul-taneously. The first was the Gulfstream G550 on 14 August, 2003 and the clean-sheet Gulfstream G500 duplicated the feat on 20 July, 2018.

The G600 flies 6,500 nm/12,038 km at its long-range cruise speed of Mach 0.85. At its high-speed cruise of Mach 0.90, it travels 5,500 nm/10,186 km. 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 touch screens, both industry firsts. The aircraft’s new interior earned top honours in Private Jet Design at the 2018 International Yacht & Aviation Awards.

Along with a cabin that can be configured for three living areas and a crew rest area, the G600 has industry-leading cabin sound levels, a low cabin altitude and 100 per cent fresh air, reducing fatigue and increasing mental awareness. Its 14 panoramic oval windows let in plenty of light.