The Gulfstream G800 has officially become the world’s longest-range private jet after earning certification from both the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).
With a maximum range of 9,000 miles, the jet is designed to fly nearly anywhere in the world without a single stop—except Sydney, if taking off from London.
The G800 can cruise at Mach 0.85 and travel 8,200 nautical miles (15,186 kilometers), which is 200 nm more than earlier projections. If operated at Mach 0.87, it still covers 8,000 nm (14,816 km), and at a high-speed cruise of Mach 0.90, it can manage 7,000 nm (12,964 km). The jet’s maximum speed has also increased to Mach 0.935 (717 mph) from the earlier Mach 0.925.
“This level of performance is game-changing for private aviation,” said Mark Burns, president of Gulfstream. “With the certification of the G800, Gulfstream has again exceeded expectations thanks to the expertise and rigor of our flight test, certification and manufacturing teams.”
The aircraft has also achieved improved takeoff and landing performance. It now needs only 5,812 feet (1,771 meters) for takeoff and 3,105 feet (946 meters) for landing under standard sea-level conditions, giving it access to a wider range of airports.
Designed for speed and built for comfort
The G800 offers not only range and speed—it’s also built for luxury and efficiency. With Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 engines and an aerodynamic wing design, the aircraft is capable of speeds up to 570 knots, just below the world’s fastest private jet, the Bombardier Global 8000.
Inside, the G800 features up to four living areas or three living areas with a dedicated crew compartment. It can seat up to 19 passengers and offers sleeping arrangements for 10. Passengers can enjoy plush leather seats, a carpeted interior, and 16 signature Gulfstream Panoramic Oval Windows for unbeatable views.
The cabin offers a whisper-quiet atmosphere, high-speed WiFi, and fresh air purified by a plasma ionization system. One of the standout features is the aircraft’s low cabin altitude of just 2,840 feet (866 meters) when flying at 41,000 feet (12,497 meters). This helps reduce fatigue and makes long-distance travel far more comfortable.
The Gulfstream team never ceases to test the boundaries of what is possible while ensuring the highest standards of safety, quality and customer commitment we are known for,” said Burns. “We have been preparing for this accomplishment and are poised for a seamless G800 entry into service as U.S. and European customer deliveries begin.”
Another aviation giant on the horizon
As Gulfstream celebrates its milestone, another massive aircraft is preparing to make its debut. Radia, an American company, has unveiled plans for WindRunner—the world’s largest plane, expected to enter service by 2030.
WindRunner is being designed to solve a very specific problem: transporting enormous wind turbine blades. These blades, which currently reach up to 230 feet and are expected to grow to 330 feet, are too long for conventional air or road transport. Some wind energy projects even require custom-built roads just to move them.
Measuring 356 feet in length—longer than a football pitch—and standing 79 feet tall, the WindRunner will be able to carry full wind turbine blades directly to construction sites. It will transport 12 times more cargo than a Boeing 747.
Radia has been developing the aircraft for nearly a decade under the guidance of its CEO, rocket scientist Mark Lundstrom. The plane’s oversized cargo bay is specifically designed to handle turbine blades, helping accelerate the construction of clean energy infrastructure around the world.
While the WindRunner focuses on utility, the G800 is all about delivering speed, range, and luxury to business aviation. Together, these two aircraft are redefining what’s possible in the sky—from high-end private travel to groundbreaking renewable energy logistics.
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