Adapted from Chad Trautvetter

    Gulfstream Aerospace has delivered the first two $75 million G700s to customers, the Georgia-based aircraft manufacturer said yesterday afternoon. Both are now in service with undisclosed customers in the U.S. The company’s 7,750-nm flagship aircraft received FAA approval on March 29, followed by production certification and cabin interior approval on April 8.

    “Beginning G700 customer deliveries less than one month after achieving FAA type certification marks an incredible milestone in Gulfstream’s history of raising the bar for the business aviation industry,” said Gulfstream president Mark Burns. “We look forward to continuing these deliveries in the weeks ahead.” 

    Gulfstream had hoped for certification by the end of last year and anticipated delivering as many as 15 before 2023 ended, but the prolonged approval process has shifted those deliveries into this year. As a result, Gulfstream anticipates a 44 percent bump in deliveries this year to 160 jets, including 50 to 52 G700s and fewer G280s due to the crisis in the Middle East.

    Meanwhile, FlightSafety International has two level-D simulators and three flight training devices for the G700 online at its Savannah training center, with two more G700 sims under construction. EASA and UK CAA conducted their final evaluations of these devices two weeks ago. G700 pilot training started on March 21, according to FlightSafety.