Gulfstream adds first fully outfitted G400 to flight-test program

Gulfstream has started flight testing the first G400 fitted with a complete passenger cabin, taking another step toward certification of the new business jet as it showcased the aircraft at NBAA-BACE 2026 in Las Vegas.

The aircraft flew from Dallas Love Field (DAL) for 2 hours and 46 minutes, reaching 48,000 feet. Its 11-passenger interior, arranged across two-and-a-half living areas, will allow Gulfstream to evaluate cabin systems and passenger comfort in flight.

The company also announced a Miami–Las Vegas speed record set by another G400 traveling to the show. That aircraft completed the trip in 4 hours and 8 minutes at an average speed of Mach 0.89, using a blend of sustainable aviation fuel.

“The aircraft continues to perform exceptionally well as we advance through the rigorous certification program,” Gulfstream President Mark Burns said.

The G400 has also undergone high-altitude testing in Telluride, Colorado, and cold-weather testing in Iqaluit, Canada.

Gulfstream introduced the G400 in 2021 with a base price of $34.5 million. The company has not announced a revised certification date.

The latest flight comes more than two years after the G400 first flew in August 2024, launching the aircraft’s flight-test program. Powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW812GA engines, the jet joins a family of Gulfstream aircraft developed around new wing, engine and cockpit technology.

Gulfstream lists the G400’s projected range at 4,200 nautical miles at Mach 0.85 with eight passengers, three crew and fuel reserves. Its planned maximum operating speed is Mach 0.90.

Customers will have a choice of cabin layouts accommodating nine, 11 or 12 passengers. The largest seating configuration provides sleeping space for up to five people, while 10 oval windows bring natural light into the cabin.

Gulfstream AerospaceThe aircraft uses Gulfstream’s Symmetry Flight Deck, with touchscreen controls and active control sidesticks that allow each pilot to feel the other’s control inputs. It also features a landing-performance system designed to help pilots recognize the risk of a runway overrun during an approach.

Gulfstream’s announcements at the show also addressed the maintenance support needed for its growing fleet. The company said its dedicated spare-parts inventory now represents an investment of more than $3 billion, alongside expanded distribution, repair and overhaul capabilities.

At its Mesa, Arizona, service center, spare-parts inventory has increased by 25% over the past year to more than $48 million. Gulfstream said the investments are intended to make parts more readily available wherever customers operate.

The company is also expanding its Performance Analytics program, which combines aircraft health-monitoring information with operating data and maintenance history. Technical teams use that information to recommend maintenance work and help customers plan service visits.

Gulfstream said the improvements are intended to reduce scheduling disruptions and keep aircraft available for flights by giving maintenance teams a more complete picture of their condition.The post Gulfstream adds first fully outfitted G400 to flight-test program appeared first on AeroTime.

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