Comparing the Bombardier Global 6000 and Gulfstream G650, two of the most luxurious long range jets
The Bombardier Global 6000 and the Gulfstream G650 are two of the most iconic ultra long range jets connecting almost any two destinations around the world.
When the Global 6000 was introduced in 2012, no other private jet offered a cabin this large, nor could one fly non-stop from New York to Tokyo, Paris to Singapore, Los Angeles to Sydney, and similar long-distance, transoceanic routes.
Formerly marketed as the Global XRS, the 6000 is still one of the most popular long range business jets today, offering the range, comfort, and speed of an airliner without the hassle.
In response, Gulfstream began production on the G650, also known as simply as the “G6”, and is still in production with its G650ER extended range model. Although it replaced the Gulfstream G550 in the G-series lineup, the G650 was given Gulfstream’s first clean-sheet design in decades to create one of the fastest and longest-range purpose-built business jets in the world.
Both aircraft are in high-demand for corporate, luxury and VIP charter flights, but what are the key differences between these two luxury jets?
Performance
The Global 6000 is powered by a pair of Rolls-Royce BR710A2-20 engines offering 14,750 pounds of thrust each, able to reach cruising speeds of Mach 0.85 (652 mph) and a maximum operating speed of Mach 0.89 (682 mph). True to its name, it offers an impressive flight range of 6,000 nautical miles.
The Gulfstream G650 is powered a pair of newer Rolls-Royce engines (BR700-725A1-12) producing 16,100 pounds of thrust each. The additional thrust allows access to more airports the the Global 6000, which requires an additional 800 feet of runway to land compared to the 5,858 foot runway needed for the G6. Each aircraft has a similar landing requirement at around 2,670 feet of tarmac.
The G650 is able to reach a higher maximum speed of Mach 0.925 (710 mph), while able to fly farther with a range of 7,000 nautical miles.
Both are excellent choices for long-range travel, with the Gulfstream G650 slightly edging the Global 6000 in terms of top speed and maximum range. Both planes weigh in at just under 100,000 lbs, allowing them to utilize smaller airports with weight restrictions to avoid airport congestion and heavy fees at international hubs, such as Teterboro Airport just outside of New York, NY.
Interior
The Global 6000 can typically accommodate 12-16 passengers across three divided cabin zones, while sleeping 9. There are two fully-enclosed lavatories available in the cabin, one of which may be equipped with a shower.
Most Global 6000’s are equipped with a forward galley, crew rest chair, and crew lavatory.
When the Gulfstream G650 hit the market, its cabin was longer, wider and taller than any other long range jet available. 16 classic Gulfstream oval-shaped windows offer birds-eye views while providing plenty of natural lighting, while wide, reclining seats, generous aisle spaces, and a spacious cabin height of 6’5″ allow between 12-19 passengers to travel comfortably.
The G650 offers a low pressure cabin and replenishes 100% of the air every two minutes, and fold out beds are available to sleep up to 9 passengers so you’re refreshed after long-haul flights.
Common amenities in the G650’s cabin include digital audio and high-definition video, 26″ widescreen televisions, 195 cubic feet of luggage capacity, and a variety of connectivity options.
The Gulfstream G650’s cabin is slightly larger and can fit a few more passengers in high-density settings, however, both interiors allow travelers to experience the pinnacle of luxury aviation.
Cost
A new Gulfstream G650 costs between $65 million and $68 million, while pre-owned models are available starting at around $25 million. The Global 6000 originally carried a price of around $62 million, with pre-owned models available for between $19 million and $38 million, depending on year of make.
Since the Gulfstream G6 is slightly more exclusive, charter rates can start between $15,000-$20,000/hour, higher than the $12,000/hour starting point to rent the Global 6000.
Specifications
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TL;DR
Overall, the Gulfstream G650 outperforms the Global 6000 in terms of speed, range, cabin volume, passenger totals and runway performance. The Global 6000 offers similar performance and comfort for long range travel, and can be available at more economic charter rates compared to the G650.
Both long range jets are excellent choices for transoceanic and intercontinental flights, with several models available for charter around the globe.
Interested in chartering a long range jet for your upcoming trip? Submit a request or give us a call at +1 (888) 987-5387 for a free charter quote from Air Charter Advisors.