Bombardier has delivered the first Global 8000 aircraft in Asia to an undisclosed customer based in Shanghai, extending the reach of its flagship ultra-long-range business jet into one of the industry's most important growth markets.

The aircraft has been designed around the requirements of long-haul operators, offering a top speed of Mach 0.95, a range of 8,000 nautical miles and nonstop connections between major global business centres including Shanghai and New York, Dublin and Sydney.

Passengers benefit from the industry's lowest cabin altitude among aircraft in production at 2,691 ft (820 metres), while operators gain greater flexibility across long-range missions throughout Asia and beyond.

“This first Global 8000 delivery in Asia reflects the region's continued appetite for aircraft that combine range, speed and an exceptional level of comfort for its passengers,” says Emmanuel Bornand, vice president, sales, international, Bombardier. “Asia is a strategic market for Bombardier, and the Global 8000 is particularly well aligned with the way customers in the region travel: across long distances, on tight schedules and with a strong focus on comfort, efficiency and nonstop global connectivity.”

The delivery also builds on Bombardier's wider investment in the region. The company is expanding its Singapore service centre at Seletar Aerospace Park through the addition of a newly built nearby facility covering approximately 250,000 sq ft, increasing support capacity for customers across Asia-Pacific.

Alongside its four zone cabin and ultra-long-range performance, the Global 8000 offers take-off and landing characteristics comparable to those of a light jet. Its advanced wing design incorporates leading-edge slats that allow access to 30% more airports than its closest rival.