Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. has announced that both the Gulfstream G500 and Gulfstream G600 have secured steep-approach certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). This significant milestone grants European operators of these advanced aircraft unprecedented access to challenging airports with shorter runways and unique terrain constraints, notably including prestigious destinations like London City Airport and Lugano Airport.
“This achievement is a direct response to the evolving needs of our global customer base,” said Mark Burns, president of Gulfstream. “Our customers already benefit from the groundbreaking performance and efficiency of the G500 and G600. With EASA steep-approach certification now achieved, we’re proud to offer European operators even greater fleet flexibility by giving them access to more remote airports and destinations around the world.”
The European certification follows the aircrafts’ earlier steep-approval from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), with the G500 certified in 2023 and the G600 in 2024. To earn these rigorous certifications from both major aviation authorities, the aircraft successfully demonstrated exceptional low-speed handling, stability, and short-field landing capabilities during extensive flight testing at the demanding London City and Lugano airports. This certification process validates the aircrafts’ ability to safely execute the precise, steep-descent angles required at such airfields.
This new capability dramatically expands the operational versatility of the G500 and G600 fleet. Operators can now seamlessly connect major financial centers, such as London City, with remote alpine resorts or island destinations previously inaccessible to aircraft in this class. It underscores Gulfstream’s commitment to delivering aircraft that combine ultra-long-range, high-speed capability with remarkable airport accessibility.
The in-service fleet of G500 and G600 aircraft continues to prove its capabilities daily. With more than 350 aircraft currently operating worldwide, the fleet has collectively amassed over 350,000 flight hours and 173,000 landings. Furthermore, these aircraft have set an impressive tally of more than 120 city-pair speed records, solidifying their reputation for blending superior performance with outstanding comfort and reliability. The EASA steep-approach certification ensures this proven platform can meet the needs of the most discerning operators across the European continent and beyond.
