We Fly: Gulfstream G650

Isabel Goyer

Tuesday, September 10, 2013 at 12:24 AM ET

Verified

** Gulfstream G650**

Key Takeaways:

The Gulfstream G650 is Gulfstream's flagship business jet, developed based on extensive customer feedback, making it the biggest, fastest, longest-range, and most luxurious aircraft in their lineup.
It offers unparalleled performance, including a 7,000 nm range at high speeds (up to Mach .925) and a remarkably low cabin altitude of 4,100 feet at 45,000 feet, effectively making long-haul global travel a "day trip."
The G650 integrates cutting-edge technology, such as a three-axis fly-by-wire flight control system, an exceptionally quiet and comfortable cabin with large windows and redundant systems, and advanced cockpit features like a Head-Up Display with enhanced vision.
The author, an experienced pilot, praises the G650's refined flying qualities and overall experience, declaring it the best airplane he has ever flown, despite its $65 million price tag and multi-year waiting list.

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In the driving rain, I taxied the big Gulfstream G650 across the ramp, being careful to keep it at a crawl on the slightly downhill grade. The line guy in optic-green rain gear directed me to nose up to the slab-sided metal hangar, its proud Gulfstream logo just visible through the fast-moving streaks of water on the big windscreen obscuring my view. After we ran the short post-flight list and shut down, I sat there in silence, taking in the most remarkable flight of my life in what just might be the most capable and advanced civil airplane ever produced.

Gulfstream G650 at a Glance

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It had been a good morning, something for which I was ready but which nothing could have sufficiently prepared me. It had all started with what sounded like a softball question.