Bombardier has successfully completed the inaugural flight of its first production Global 8000 aircraft, marking a significant milestone in the development of its flagship business jet. The flight departed from Bombardier’s state-of-the-art Aircraft Assembly Centre in Mississauga, Ontario, and included a series of production flight test procedures validating the aircraft’s performance.
Under the command of pilot Sandro Novelli, supported by co-pilot Charlie Honey and flight engineer Bhargav Bhavsar, the aircraft demonstrated flawless performance, with all systems and flight controls operating as expected. The aircraft will now proceed to Bombardier’s Laurent Beaudoin Completion Centre in Montreal for interior outfitting, in preparation for its scheduled entry-into-service (EIS) in the second half of 2025.
“This first production flight marks yet another successful milestone for Bombardier’s Global 8000 program and we are very pleased with how the aircraft performed on its maiden journey,” said Stephen McCullough, Senior Vice President, Engineering and Product Development, Bombardier. “This is a significant step forward for a jet that will redefine business aviation.”
David Murray, Executive Vice President, Manufacturing, IT and Bombardier Operational Excellence System, added, “This first flight is a reflection of the dedication and high skill level of our engineering, production, and flight teams to execute with precision and mastery.”
The Global 8000 is the evolution of the highly successful Global 7500, which has accumulated over 250,000 flying hours and more than 200 deliveries since its introduction in 2018. The Global 8000 leads its class with an unmatched top speed of Mach 0.94 and a maximum range of 8,000 nautical miles, making it the fastest and longest-range business jet in the world.
Capable of flying ultra-long routes such as Singapore to Los Angeles and London to Perth, the Global 8000 also offers superior runway performance, allowing access to airports not typically available to aircraft of its category.
Designed with luxury and health in mind, the aircraft features four true living spaces, a dedicated crew rest area, the longest seated length in its class, and the industry’s lowest cabin altitude. It sets new standards in comfort, productivity, and operational flexibility, redefining the future of business aviation.
