G550 Establishes New Speed Record Between Hong Kong And Dubai

A Gulfstream G550 business jet recently established a new city-pair speed record, flying 4,082 nautical miles between Hong Kong and Dubai, United Arab Emirates , in 8 hours and 29 minutes.

On a westward heading, the G550 took off from Hong Kong International – Chek Lap Kok Airport at 3:02 p.m. local time on March 3. It flew at an average airspeed of Mach 0.86 into an average headwind in excess of 80 knots. Additionally, the G550, which is designed to fly most efficiently at an altitude of 51,000 feet, flew between 40,000 and 43,000 feet while flying through India and Pakistan ’s restricted airspace. This record-setting G550 landed at Dubai International Airport at 7:31 p.m. local time.

Piloting the G550 was Hank Gibson, Gulfstream senior international captain, while John McGrath, Gulfstream senior international captain, served as copilot. In addition to flight attendant Linda Barr, four passengers were onboard the flight.

Gulfstream has submitted an application to the National Aeronautic Association to confirm the new city-pair record.

FMI: www.gulfstream.com