NetJets will be the fleet launch customer for Bombardier’s Global 8000, adding the new platform to its already sprawling fleet of more than 850 aircraft, the aircraft manufacturer announced Wednesday.
The long-time fractional company has placed a firm order for four Global 8000 ultralong-range jets valued at $312 million. Additionally, it converted eight existing orders for Bombardier products, the OEM said.
“The new Global 8000 aircraft is the ultimate solution for NetJets’ discerning Owners, offering a truly seamless private aviation experience,” said Eric Martel, president and CEO, of Bombardier. “NetJets’ experience and expertise make them the ideal partner to unlock the full potential of this revolutionary Mach 0.94 business jet in a large fleet context. Our valued relationship continues to grow stronger, and we are proud to share this historic milestone together.”
This new commitment adds to the Global 7500s that NetJets already has on order and in service. The operator plans to expand the fleet to 24 Global 8000s, and at a point in the future upgrade the entire Global 7500 fleet to Global 8000s.
“The new Global 8000 will help us to continue offering our owners, specifically our international travelers, the pinnacle in unforgettably personalized experiences aboard the finest ultralong-range aircraft available,” said Patrick Gallagher, NetJets’ president of sales, marketing, and service.
Bombardier also said NetJets could continue expanding its fleet through options that it has the right to exercise soon.
“With inventory sold out through 2023 in the U.S., we are continuing to invest in further expansion for prospective owners in North America and across the globe. In fact, by the end of 2023, we are proud to share that our worldwide fleet will be approximately 30 percent larger than it was at the beginning of 2022,” Gallagher said.
Bombardier introduced the long-range Global 8000 at the The European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE) in Geneva, Switzerland, earlier this year. Currently, in flight testing, it has achieved its projected 8,000-nm range and a top speed of Mach 0.94. The Global 8000 is expected to enter the market in 2025.
