The Gulfstream 500 (or Gulfstream V) was the first contender in the ultra-long-range private jet category. It is capable of flying anywhere in the world: nonstop flights from Denver to Beijing or from New Zealand to San Francisco. It is extremely reliable and high-performing. The ultra-long-range private jet class is a very exclusive and competitive one in which the Gulfstream V competes well.

The 1,669 cubic foot cabin usually seats 15 passengers, but can be configured to hold more. The stand-up (6.1 feet high) cabin is 50.1 feet long and is usually partitioned into three separate areas. Noise levels are uniformly low throughout the cabin. An external baggage compartment can hold 226 cubic feet of baggage, or a total of 2,500 pounds. Access is available to this compartment in-flight when flying at or above 40,000 feet. Small additional storage compartments are located under each seat.

Standard cabin amenities include a full-sized galley, equipped for hot and cold food preparation; a sink with running water; power outlets for office equipment; fold-out work tables; and separate lavatories for the passengers and the crew. Satellite TV, multi-screen entertainment systems, and phones for each seat are available.

The engines were designed to be fuel-efficient and reliable. It can climb directly to an altitude of 37,000 feet in eighteen minutes, then continue to 43,000 feet for a high speed cruise of 488 knots, or climb to 45,000 feet for a long-range cruise of 459 knots. The highest altitude that it is certified to fly at is 51,000 feet. It is rated to 10.2 psi, meaning that it can maintain a sea level cabin when flying at 29,200 feet. Cabin pressurization is automatically regulated by a computerized pressurization system.

Range/payload capacity is one of the Gulfstream V’s strong points; when loaded to its maximum payload of 6,600 pounds, it still has a range of 6,230 miles (5,416 nautical miles). Since the Gulfstream V is expected to be used for missions as long as fourteen hours, the cockpit can accommodate three pilots.

The Gulfstream V is ideal for those that need to complete cross-country or international flights quickly. The Gulfstream V’s combination of range, payload capacity, speed, and reliability make it a first-rate ultra-long-range private jet.