On November 4, 2016, the first Global 7000 flight test vehicle (FTV1) departed on its maiden flight from Bombardier’s manufacturing facility in Toronto, Ontario. During the 2 hour and 27 minute flight, all flight controls were exercised and the aircraft performed as expected, climbing to 20,000 feet (6,096 m), retracting its landing gear and reaching a speed of 240 knots.
Just two weeks later, FTV 1 was ferried to Wichita, Kansas, where the Bombardier Flight Test Centre is based, to continue the flight test programme.
The Global 7000 aircraft combines long-range performance and short-field capability thanks to its advanced wing design and highly efficient purpose-built GE Passport engines. The aircraft is equipped with the Bombardier Vision flight deck, which features a proven fly-by-wire system and a side stick for a new level of comfort and control. Advanced technology in the cockpit provides enhanced and synthetic vision, navigation and monitoring systems that heighten situational awareness, simplify operations and reduce pilot workload while maximizing safety.
The Global 7000 aircraft is the first purpose-built true four-zone business jet. In the cabin, passengers will experience an unprecedented level of comfort with four dedicated living spaces, 80 percent larger windows and access to the latest entertainment technology, including the fastest worldwide Ka-band high-speed internet connectivity. State-of-the-art sound dampening materials reduce noise and vibration, making the cabin on the Global 7000 jet one of the quietest ever conceived.
Assembled in Toronto using automated positioning technology and laser-guided robotics to join major aircraft structures, the Global 7000 business jet is delivering consistent precision and unprecedented quality. Additional flight test vehicles are in various stages of production and assembly. The Global 7000 aircraft is expected to enter into service in the second half of 2018.
About the Contributor
This article was sponsored and prepared by Bombardier. Bombardier designs, manufactures and supports innovative aviation products and services and provides solutions and training for the business, commercial and other specialized aircraft markets.