Introduction to Gulfstream G550
Overview of Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation
Gulfstream Aerospace builds large business jets in Savannah, Georgia. Its first aircraft flew in 1958. Gulfstream notes that the G550 won the Robert J. Collier Trophy.
History and development of Gulfstream G550
The G550 is an improved Gulfstream V. Its certification name is GV-SP. It first flew on August 31, 2001, was certified by the FAA on August 14, 2003, and entered service in 2004.
Compared with the Gulfstream V, drag reduction added 250 nautical miles of range and improved fuel efficiency. Gulfstream also added a seventh pair of cabin windows and moved the entry door two feet forward to make more of the cabin usable. A reduced-fuel version was sold as the G500, which is a different aircraft from the newer G500 Gulfstream introduced in 2018.
Gulfstream ended G550 production in July 2021. The last commercially available G550 was delivered in June 2021, after more than 600 had been built.
What is the fastest way to reach JFK or Newark for a Gulfstream G550 departure
If your G550 departs from JFK or Newark, the drive from Manhattan is often the slowest part of the trip. BLADE offers flights between Manhattan and JFK or Newark in about 5 minutes, from $195 per seat. After landing at the airport, a BLADE vehicle takes you from the heliport to your terminal. Check with your operator where the jet will be parked so you know where to go.
Design and Construction of Gulfstream G550
Key design features and construction materials
The G550 builds on the Gulfstream V airframe, with aerodynamic refinements that reduce drag. It is not a fly-by-wire aircraft. The G650 that followed it uses fully fly-by-wire controls.
Technical specifications
- Length: 96 ft 5 in
- Wingspan: 93 ft 6 in
- Maximum takeoff weight: 91,000 lb
- Payload: 6,200 lb
- Engines: two Rolls-Royce BR710 C4-11 turbofans, 15,385 lb of thrust each
- Cabin: 6 ft 2 in high, 7 ft 4 in wide and 43 ft 11 in long
- Cabin volume: 1,669 cu ft
- Baggage: 170 cu ft usable
- Passengers: up to 19 certified
Performance capabilities
- Maximum range: 6,750 nm at Mach 0.80
- High-speed cruise: Mach 0.85 at 41,000 ft
- Long-range cruise: Mach 0.80 at 41,000 ft
- Service ceiling: 51,000 ft
Gulfstream G550 range: common nonstop routes and flight planning
With 6,750 nautical miles of range, the G550 can fly many intercontinental routes nonstop. Published range assumes ideal conditions. Passengers, bags, headwinds, the departure runway and fuel reserves all change what the jet can fly nonstop on the day. The operator plans each trip and will tell you if a fuel stop is needed.
Cabin Comfort and Amenities of Gulfstream G550
Interior design and layout
The cabin is just under 44 feet long and over six feet high, so most passengers can stand. Its length allows it to be divided into several seating areas. Gulfstream lists 8 berths for sleeping in its standard listing. Layouts vary by aircraft, so check the seat map with the operator.
Comfort and amenities for passengers
Cabin comfort comes from space, quiet and pressurization. Amenities such as the galley, lavatory, sleeping layout and catering vary by aircraft, so confirm them with the operator before you book.
Entertainment and Communication Systems
Wi-Fi, phones and entertainment systems are fitted and upgraded by each owner. If you need to work in flight, ask for the specific system and coverage on your route.
Cockpit and Avionics of Gulfstream G550
The G550 introduced Gulfstream's PlaneView flight deck. It uses Honeywell Primus Epic avionics with cursor control devices. A Rockwell Collins head-up guidance system and an Elbit enhanced vision system are standard. Enhanced vision helps the pilots see the runway environment in reduced visibility.
Pilot and co-pilot seating
The G550 is flown by two pilots. On long trips, ask the operator about crew rest and whether a cabin attendant is included.
Operating Costs and Maintenance of Gulfstream G550
Overview of operating costs
Fuel is the largest variable cost. Reported figures put first-hour fuel burn at 4,500 to 5,000 pounds, falling in later hours as the jet gets lighter. Crew, hangar, insurance, maintenance and engine programs add to the cost of ownership.
Gulfstream G550 charter pricing: hourly rates and what drives total trip cost
Charter prices depend on the route, flight time, positioning of the aircraft, overnight crew costs, fees at each airport and the season. An empty repositioning leg can add to the total. Ask for an itemized quote so you can compare options.
Purchasing and Financing a Gulfstream G550
Pre-owned options
Because production ended in 2021, every G550 on the market is pre-owned. Prices vary with the year, total hours, engine program status, avionics upgrades and interior condition.
Financing and Leasing Options
Buyers can pay cash, finance the aircraft or lease it. Aviation lenders and lessors set terms based on the aircraft's age and the buyer's finances, so compare offers.
Legal and Regulatory Considerations
A purchase involves the title search, the registration, tax planning and the operating structure. Work with an aviation attorney and a tax advisor before closing.
Fuel Efficiency and Consumption of Gulfstream G550
The drag reduction work on the G550 improved fuel efficiency over the Gulfstream V. Fuel burn on any trip depends on the load, the altitude, the speed and the winds. Flying at the long-range cruise speed of Mach 0.80 uses less fuel than high-speed cruise at Mach 0.85.
Inspection, Appraisal, and Valuation Process
Pre-Purchase Inspections
A pre-purchase inspection at a qualified service center checks the airframe, engines, avionics and records. It is the best protection against surprise maintenance costs after you buy.
Appraisal Process and Valuation
An independent appraiser compares the aircraft with recent sales of similar G550s, adjusting for hours, maintenance status and equipment.
Purchase Negotiation and Closing
Most deals use a letter of intent, a deposit held in escrow, the inspection, and then a final purchase agreement and closing.
Conclusion: Should You Buy a Gulfstream G550?
Considerations For Potential Buyers
The G550 offers intercontinental range, a large cabin and a well-known flight deck. Buyers should weigh the costs of operating a large jet and the age of the fleet. For occasional long trips, chartering may be simpler than owning. BLADE arranges private jet charters with licensed operators, so you can compare aircraft for your route.
FAQs about What Is An Gulfstream G550 Jet?
What is a Gulfstream G550 jet?
It is a large-cabin, ultra-long-range business jet built by Gulfstream Aerospace from 2003 to 2021.
How many people can the Gulfstream G550 jet accommodate?
It is certified for up to 19 passengers. Gulfstream's own listing shows 18 passengers with 8 berths.
How far can the Gulfstream G550 jet fly?
Gulfstream lists a maximum range of 6,750 nautical miles at Mach 0.80.
What is the maximum speed of the Gulfstream G550 jet?
Its high-speed cruise is Mach 0.85 at 41,000 feet.
What amenities does the Gulfstream G550 jet offer?
A stand-up cabin about 44 feet long, berths for sleeping and 170 cubic feet of baggage space. Galley, Wi-Fi and entertainment vary by aircraft.
How much does it cost to charter a Gulfstream G550 jet?
It depends on the route, flight time, repositioning and fees. Request a quote for your specific trip.