Move Reflects Growing Presence Of Gulfstream Aircraft In Middle East

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) General Civil Aviation Authority has given Gulfstream Type Certificate Validation (TCV) for the Gulfstream G550 and G500. The approvals allow operators to register the business jets in the Emirates.

G500 File Photo

The two aircraft join the large-cabin, long-range G450, which was approved for UAE certification in March 2008.

"Gulfstream's presence in the Middle East has grown dramatically, nearly doubling to more than 100 in five years," said Larry Flynn, senior vice president, Marketing and Sales, Gulfstream. "Having this certification validation is important to the continued growth of Gulfstream in the area because it streamlines the registration process for our UAE operators."

In addition to the UAE, some 16 other countries have certified the G550/G500 from North and South America to the Pacific Rim, Europe, and the Far East. The aircraft have also received Type Certificate Validation (TCV) from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which means they can be registered in any EU country.

Gulfstream introduced the G550 on Oct. 9, 2000. The aircraft received its Type and Production certificates from the FAA on Aug. 14, 2003, making it the first time in Gulfstream history that both certificates were received on the same day.

G550 File Photo

The G550 features twin Rolls-Royce BR710 engines, each of which provides 15,385 pounds of thrust. It has a range of 6,750 nautical miles and a maximum speed of Mach 0.885. The aircraft has established almost 40 city-pair speed records and is the most technologically advanced in-service aircraft in the Gulfstream fleet.

In May 2004, the G550 development team received the 2003 Collier Trophy for the technological advances and safety enhancements featured in the design of the aircraft. The trophy is the most prestigious aviation award in North America.

A derivative aircraft, the G500 was introduced on Sept. 9, 2002, and received its Type Certificate on Dec. 5, 2003. It also features the Rolls-Royce BR710 engines and offers a maximum speed of Mach 0.885. Its range is 5,800 nautical miles.

FMI: www.gulfstream.com