Gulfstream's fourth G700 test aircraft has taken flight. The fourth aircraft recently took off and flew for one hour and 56 minutes, reaching an altitude of 41,000 ft and a speed of Mach 0.89. Its testing regimen will include avionics, the environmental control system, mechanical systems, electrical power and hydraulics.

“This is the fourth first flight we've accomplished within just eight months, and that is a truly impressive feat,” says Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “I have said it before: what sets Gulfstream apart is that we ensure our aircraft are mature upon certification, so our customers know that what we deliver will be safe, reliable and exceed their expectations.”

Together, the four flight test aircraft have flown more than 600 hours since the programme's first flight on 14 February. The G700 has also flown beyond its maximum certified operating speed and cruise altitude, reaching a speed of Mach 0.99 and an altitude of 54,000 ft. Additional test aircraft are being prepared to join the test and certification programme and will include fully outfitted production aircraft to test the interior elements, including seat designs, an all-new true circadian lighting system, an ultragalley and a grand suite.

The G700 is powered by Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 engines and can fly at its high-speed cruise of Mach 0.90 for 6,400 nm or at its long-range cruise of Mach 0.85 for 7,500 nm. The jet also includes the Gulfstream Symmetry Flight Deck with the industry's only electronically linked active control sidesticks; an extensive use of touch-screen technology and the OEM's predictive landing performance system.