Gulfstream 550
| Gulfstream G500/G550 C-37B |
|
|---|---|
 |
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| A Netjets Europe G550 business jet on final approach to Frankfurt Airport | |
| Role | Business jet |
| National origin | United States |
| Manufacturer | Gulfstream Aerospace |
| Introduction | 2004 |
| Status | In service |
| Primary users |
United States Air Force United States Navy Israeli Air Force Netjets |
| Produced | 2003–present |
| Number built | 530 as of June 2016 |
| Unit cost |
G500: US$48.25 million (2012)
G550: US$61.5 million (2015) |
| Developed from | Gulfstream V |
| Gulfstream G550 AEW&C | |
 Hi-res publicity photo of G550 AEW&C and SEMA by Gulfstream Aerospace.
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The Gulfstream G550 is a business jet aircraft produced by General Dynamics' Gulfstream Aerospace unit in Savannah, Georgia. The certification designation is GV-SP. There were 450 Gulfstream G550s in active service as of January 2016. A version with reduced fuel capacity was marketed as the G500.
The G550 (GV-SP) received its FAA type certificate on August 14, 2003. Compared to the Gulfstream V, it is equipped with a Honeywell Advanced Flight Deck Display Suite to improve flight crew situational awareness and operational capabilities. Aerodynamic and engine were improved, coupled with operational changes for increased performance, range and economics. The main entry door is relocated forward and a seventh cabin window pair is added, coupled with cabin improvements for increased baggage space, external visibility and comfort.
The aircraft has a "PlaneView" cockpit with four Honeywell DU-1310 EFIS screens, a Gulfstream-designed cursor control system, and an Enhanced Vision System (EVS). A thermographic camera that displays a front view on a head up display, permitting to land in lower-visibility instrument meteorological conditions than without. The 500th Gulfstream G550 aircraft has been delivered in May 2015. Range is increased to 6,750 nautical miles (12,500 km). It competes against the Bombardier Global Express.
As it is replaced by the $54.5 million Gulfstream G600 with a lower 6200 nmi range but with a better cabin and cockpit, faster long range cruise and lower fuel burn, it could leave production in 2019. Deliveries went from 50 aircraft in 2011 to 19 in 2016 and with 40 units for sale in a fleet of 540, its valuation are falling : a 10-year-old G550 valued $28 million a year before is worth $18-$20 million in January 2017, while a two-year-old went from $40 to $35 million.
The aircraft is operated by private individuals, companies and executive charter operators. A number of companies also use the aircraft as part of fractional ownership programs.
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