Gulfstream to Cease Production of G450

Gulfstream announced Friday its plans to cease production of the G450 as the company prepares to launch the highly anticipated G500. Marking an end to one of the company’s most iconic aircraft, the final Gulfstream 450 will be delivered to a customer in early 2018. Gulfstream also noted that the last G150 has been sold, with delivery anticipated for mid-2017.

“The GIV and G450 ushered in a business aviation renaissance that has led to increased safety, greater reliability, better technology and improved performance,” said Gulfstream president Mark Burns. “It’s fitting that the G500 will replace the G450 and build upon its performance legacy, creating another industry game-changer from Gulfstream.”

Five G500 aircraft are currently in flight testing, amassing a total of 1,600 hours. A G500 simulator is also in use at FlightSafety’s Savannah campus. The G500 is expected to achieve type certification in 2017, with deliveries planned for 2018.