IAI mates G250 fuselage

By Arie Egozi

Israel Aerospace Industries has completed fuselage mating of the first Gulfstream G250, an evolution of the G200 super-midsize business jet.

The G250 forward, centre and aft fuselage sections were joined using a more efficient assembly process, says IAI, which will reduce the time needed to complete the fuselage.

According to Gulfstream, the G250 will have the largest cabin and the longest range at the fastest speed in the super-midsize category. The aircraft will travel up to 6,290km (3,400nm) at 0.80 Mach and will have a maximum operating speed of 0.85 Mach.

With an initial cruise altitude of 41,000ft (12,500m), the G250 will climb to a maximum altitude of 45,000ft,

The aircraft will be powered by twin Honeywell HTF7250G engines, each with 7,445lb of thrust (33kN). The engines and nacelle package for the first flight-test aircraft have already been delivered. First flight of the G250 is earmarked for the second half of the year, leading to certification and first deliveries in 2011.

© Israel Aerospace Industries