Qatar Airways recently took delivery of two G500 aircraft at Gulfstream’s headquarters in Savannah, Georgia. The event represents the first international deliveries of the all-new aircraft. Qatar Airways’ executive charter business, Qatar Executive, already operates five G650ER jets.
The clean-sheet G500 earned its US FAA type and production certificates in July 2018 and entered service in September 2018. The Qatar Civil Aviation Authority validated the US type certificate in October 2018.
On its way to FAA certification, the G500 embarked on a world tour to give customers access to the flight deck and interior. During the tour, the G500 flew nearly 130,000 nautical miles (240,760km) and set 22 city-pair speed records, all in addition to the flying required for certification. In total, the G500 has already achieved nearly 30 city-pair speed records.
“Gulfstream and Qatar Executive have been good partners since we announced the G500 and their intention to be its international launch customer,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “We are proud to deliver these aircraft just four years later and after the most rigorous flight test program Gulfstream has conducted. Qatar Executive’s world-renowned executive charter service is gaining mature, high-performing aircraft that set new standards in safety and comfort.”
“We are truly delighted to be the international launch customer for the all-new Gulfstream G500 jet,” said His Excellency Akbar Al Baker, chief executive at the Qatar Airways Group. “This state-of-the-art aircraft will set a new industry benchmark and will offer our passengers an unrivaled flying experience.
“Qatar Executive and Gulfstream share a special and strong relationship, one which has grown over the years based on confidence and mutual understanding. This relationship emphasizes Qatar Executive’s commitment to provide an industry-leading product and service.”
Upon becoming the international launch customer for the G500 in 2014, Qatar Airways established an agreement for up to 30 Gulfstream aircraft, a combination of firm orders and options that includes the flagship G650ER, the G500 and its sister ship, the G600.
