Range is often one of the most important factors for buyers in private aviation, especially those needing to travel long distances with no stopovers. Gulfstream and Bombardier—two titans of the business jet industry—offer some of the longest-range planes in the market. The article looks into which of the two manufacturers has more diverse offerings and the technologies and design philosophies that allow for such impressive capabilities.
Gulfstream’s Long-Range Capabilities
Gulfstream Aerospace’s fleet is synonymous with ultra long-distance travel. The company has consistently pushed the limits of feasible aviation travel distances.
Gulfstream G650ER
Gulfstream G650ER stands out in Gulfstream’s fleet due to its long-range capabilities. The G650ER, an extended-range version of the already impressive G650, can travel up to 7,500 nautical miles at Mach 0.85. This enables nonstop travel from New York to Shanghai or Los Angeles to Melbourne, making it one of the most popular jets for international business travel.
Gulfstream G700
Gulfstream G700, the newest and most advanced model in Gulfstream’s lineup, promises even more impressive numbers. Its long-range cruise speed is expected to allow it to travel up to 7,750 nautical miles. The G700 uses new Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 engines and aerodynamically optimized winglets to increase its range, allowing it to connect almost any two cities without refueling.
Bombardier’s Long-Range Offerings
Bombardier has consistently expanded its Global series, focusing on providing aircraft that can travel long distances comfortably.
Bombardier Global 7500
Bombardier Global 7500 is Bombardier’s flagship long-range private jet and the world’s longest-range business jet. It can travel up to 7,700 nautical miles, which is slightly longer than the Gulfstream G650ER. With its impressive range, the Global 7500 can easily fly nonstop from New York to Hong Kong or San Francisco to Sydney.
Bombardier Global 8000
The upcoming Global 8000 is expected to outperform its predecessors by offering a range of 7,900 nautical miles, making it the new leader in long-distance private aviation. This jet is designed to provide range and speed, with a Mach 0.94 capability, making it one of the fastest and farthest-reaching jets on the market.
Technological Innovations Improve the Range
Both manufacturers use advanced aerodynamics, engine efficiency, and fuel management technologies to increase the range of their aircraft.
Gulfstream
Gulfstream uses high-thrust engines and aerodynamically efficient designs, including its signature winglets, to reduce drag and increase fuel efficiency. Using composite materials also significantly reduces overall aircraft weight, resulting in a longer range.
Bombardier
Bombardier prioritizes wing design and engine efficiency to optimize range. The Global 7500 and 8000 have advanced wing designs that adapt during flight to optimize speed and fuel burn efficiency. Combined with cutting-edge engine technologies, these jets fly farther and with greater fuel efficiency.
| Feature | Gulfstream G650ER | Gulfstream G700 | Bombardier Global 7500 | Bombardier Global 8000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Range | 7,500 nautical miles | 7,500 nautical miles | 7,700 nautical miles | 7,900 nautical miles |
| Speed | Mach 0.90 | Mach 0.90 | Mach 0.925 | Mach 0.94 |
| Cabin Length | 46.10 feet | 56.11 feet | 54.5 feet | Expected to be similar to Global 7500 (54.5 feet) |
| Cabin Height | 6.4 feet | 6.3 feet | 6.3 feet | Expected to be similar to Global 7500 (6.3 feet) |
| Cabin Width | 8.5 feet | 8.2 feet | 8.2 feet | Expected to be similar to Global 7500 (8.2 feet) |
| Passenger Capacity | Up to 19 passengers | Up to 19 passengers | Up to 19 passengers | Up to 19 passengers |
| Engines | Rolls-Royce BR725 | Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 | GE Passport | Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 |
| Entry into Service | Currently available | Currently available | Currently available | Expected 2025 |
Gulfstream and Bombardier offer some of the most long-range private jets on the market. Choosing between them frequently depends on cabin comfort, technological preferences, and specific travel requirements. Bombardier’s Global 7500 is the longest-range business jet available, and the Global 8000 is expected to extend that lead even further.
However, Gulfstream’s fleet, particularly the G650ER and the upcoming G700, continues to push competitive boundaries in both range and speed, making the decision between the two as difficult as it is exciting. Whether flying for business or pleasure, these aircraft are the pinnacle of private aviation, combining luxury, efficiency, and exceptional long-distance capability.