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| Gulfstream G500. Photo: Gulfstream |
[Avionics Today 08-05-2016] Gulfstream Aerospace’s G500 test aircraft has completed its first flight. This was the first G500 production test aircraft to be outfitted with a full interior and serves as the testbed for the cabin.
The G500 production test aircraft is testing the complete passenger experience for form, fit, function, noise and comfort, as well as the passenger interface with various cabin elements. Tests will include repetitive operations of all systems during many different phases of flight. The test aircraft will also be taken through a variety of missions, including overnight trips, hot and cold weather scenarios and turbulence.
With five aircraft now flying, the G500 flight-test program continues to advance. In July, the fourth test aircraft made its first trans-Atlantic flight and European debut at the 2016 Farnborough International Airshow. To date, the G500 test fleet has flown more than 320 flights and more than 1,300 flight hours.