Gulfstream G700 Business Aircraft Receives FAA Certification
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced on Friday the certification of General Dynamics Corp’s Gulfstream G700 business aircraft, bringing fresh competition to the luxury jet market. The certification process for new aircraft in the United States has come under increased scrutiny following the tragic crashes of two Boeing 737 MAX flights in 2018 and 2019. Gulfstream President Mark Burns had foreseen the FAA requesting more information during the G700 certification, given the previous crashes, but did not expect any unreasonable demands.
Gulfstream reported that the G700 will have shorter takeoff and landing distances than originally anticipated. The company successfully completed a rigorous certification program with the G700, marking the most extensive certification effort in its history. In September, Gulfstream announced performance improvements, including an enhanced range of 7,750 nautical miles and the title of the fastest Gulfstream jet.
Despite sustained customer interest in private planes following a surge during the COVID-19 pandemic, slowing global growth in 2024 and the availability of pre-owned aircraft could impact demand. Meanwhile, Boeing has been awaiting certification for its Boeing 737 MAX 7 and MAX 10 models for several years and now faces additional challenges after withdrawing a safety exemption request in January that could have hastened approval for the MAX 7.