Second Global 7000 Prototype Joins Flight-test Program

The second flight-test vehicle (FTV2) for Bombardier’s new Global 7000 program has achieved its first flight. The Canadian airframer said that the Global 7000, for which development work was delayed by two years, remains on track to meet its revised entry-into-service target in the second half of 2018. This follows the maiden flight of the first flight-test vehicle (FTV1) in November.

FTV2, which Bombardier has dubbed “The Powerhouse,” is being used to test aircraft systems, including propulsion, electrical, and mechanical systems. Taking off at 10:50 a.m., the aircraft flew for 4 hours and 28 minutes on March 4.  Bombardier is working on securing a permit for a ferry flight to get the aircraft to its flight-test center in Wichita.

“We now have a flight-test vehicle dedicated to testing the aircraft’s systems,” explained François Caza, Bombardier’s product development vice president and chief engineer. “We are on track with our test program, and we are very pleased with the progression and performance of our flight-test vehicles to date. The dedication and collaboration our teams have shown were critical in achieving this significant milestone.”

The Global 7000 will offer range of up to 7,400 nautical miles carrying eight passengers and cruising at Mach 0.85, allowing for nonstop flights such as London to Singapore and Dubai to New York City. High-speed cruise will be Mach 0.925.