The Gulfstream G650 and Gulfstream G650ER are two nearly identical aircraft, with the ER of G650ER standing for “extended range”.
Therefore, it will come as no surprise that the G650ER is capable of flying further than the standard G650.
When it comes to comparing these two aircraft there are a lot of similarities. However, it is still important to consider any differences between them to find the right aircraft for you.
Moreover, which variant presents the better investment opportunity?
Performance
Both models are powered by Rolls-Royce BR725 engines, capable of generating a substantial thrust output of 16,900 lbs per engine, resulting in a total thrust output of 33,800 lbs.
This remarkable power allows both aircraft to perform at high levels, regardless of the mission profile.
In terms of speed, there is no difference between the two models.
Both the G650 and the G650ER have a high-speed cruise of 516 knots and a long-range cruise speed of 488 knots. Moreover, the G650ER currently holds more than 125 world speed records.
The benefits of higher cruise speeds are manifold. Not only does it reduce travel time, ensuring that passengers reach their destinations more quickly, but it also offers greater flexibility in planning flight schedules.
However, there are slight differences in the initial cruise altitude of these two jets.
The G650 commences cruising at an altitude of 39,000 feet, while the G650ER starts slightly higher at 41,000 feet.
Both aircraft can reach a maximum altitude of 51,000 feet.
A higher maximum altitude allows the aircraft to fly over most weather disturbances, providing smoother and safer flights. It also offers improved fuel efficiency as the air at higher altitudes is thinner, reducing drag on the aircraft.
When comparing the rate of climb, the G650 ascends at a rate of 3,570 feet per minute, slightly outpacing the G650ER’s climb rate of 3,396 feet per minute.
Fuel consumption, however, is where one might see a clear distinction.
The G650 burns 475 gallons per hour, while the G650ER consumes a bit more at 490 gallons per hour.
Choosing an aircraft with lower fuel burn can translate into significant cost savings. At the current Jet A fuel cost of $6 per gallon, flying the G650 for 300 hours annually would consume 142,500 gallons of fuel, costing $855,000.
In contrast, the G650ER would consume 147,000 gallons, costing $882,000.
Therefore, opting for the G650 over the G650ER would result in an annual saving of $27,000.
Range
In the realm of private aviation, the range of an aircraft is a paramount consideration.
It is the distance that an aircraft can fly without refueling, and it’s often a critical factor in determining the suitability of a particular model for certain missions.
For instance, the Gulfstream G650 boasts a substantial range of 7,000 nautical miles, equivalent to 8,055 miles or 12,964 kilometers. This impressive reach makes it a highly capable jet for long-distance travel.
On the other hand, the Gulfstream G650ER offers even greater endurance with a range of 7,500 nautical miles, which translates to 8,632 miles or 13,890 kilometers.
The additional 500 nautical miles could make a significant difference on ultra-long-haul flights, providing more flexibility and fewer fuel stops.
As you can see from the map below, both aircraft are easily capable of flying non-stop from New York to South America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and much of Asia.
However, the G650ER can go that little bit further. For example, being able to comfortably reach all of Africa from New York and much more of Asia.
For example, the G650ER can fly non-stop from New York to Hanoi while the standard G650 cannot.
However, it’s essential to understand that these range figures represent the optimal scenario.
They are based on ideal conditions and can be affected by several factors. The first is weather conditions, particularly wind. Headwinds can significantly decrease an aircraft’s range, while tailwinds can extend it.
Secondly, the weight of the aircraft, including passengers, luggage, and fuel, can have a considerable impact on the range.
Lastly, the speed at which the aircraft is flown also affects the range, with higher speeds generally reducing the range due to increased fuel burn.
Ground Performance
Ground performance is another critical factor that determines the suitability of an aircraft for certain missions.
Ground performance, in this context, refers to the take-off and landing distances of an aircraft. These figures indicate how much runway length an aircraft needs to safely depart or arrive at an airport.
For instance, the Gulfstream G650 requires a take-off distance of 5,858 feet (1,786 meters), while the Gulfstream G650ER requires a slightly longer distance of 6,299 feet (1,920 meters).
A shorter take-off distance is beneficial as it provides more flexibility in terms of the airports that the aircraft can operate from. Some airports, particularly those located in densely populated urban areas or high-altitude regions, have shorter runways. Therefore, aircraft with shorter take-off distances can operate from a wider range of airports, providing more options for travel routes and destinations.
When it comes to landing, the G650 requires a distance of 3,182 feet (970 meters) to come to a safe stop, while the G650ER requires a slightly shorter distance of 3,000 feet (914 meters).
Just like with take-off distances, a shorter landing distance can be advantageous. It means the aircraft can safely operate from airports with shorter runways, thus increasing the number of potential landing sites. This could make a significant difference in situations where immediate landing is required, such as in case of a medical emergency onboard.
However, it’s crucial to bear in mind that these figures represent the best-case scenario. They are based on ideal conditions and can be influenced by several factors.
The first is the weight of the aircraft, including passengers, luggage, and fuel. Heavier aircraft generally require longer distances to take off and land.
Secondly, weather conditions, particularly wind speed and direction, can affect the take-off and landing distances. Headwinds can help reduce these distances, while tailwinds can extend them.
Lastly, the altitude of the airport also plays a role. Airports at higher altitudes have thinner air, which can increase the take-off and landing distances.
Interior Dimensions
The interior dimensions of an aircraft significantly contribute to the overall passenger experience.
The Gulfstream G650 and the Gulfstream G650ER share identical interior dimensions, offering a generous cabin length of 53.58 feet (16.33 meters), a width of 8.17 feet (2.49 meters), and a height of 6.27 feet (1.91 meters).
A longer cabin offers multiple benefits. It provides additional space for passenger seating, allowing for a more comfortable and spacious environment during travel. It also affords more room for amenities such as galleys, lavatories, and sleeping quarters, enhancing the overall travel experience. Moreover, a longer cabin can accommodate more passengers, making it ideal for corporate or group travel.
Similarly, a wider cabin contributes to increased comfort and flexibility. It enables passengers to move around with ease, providing a sense of spaciousness and freedom. A wider cabin can also accommodate larger, more comfortable seating arrangements, and allow for broader aisles which enhance mobility within the aircraft.
A taller cabin is equally beneficial. It allows passengers to stand up straight and move around the cabin comfortably, contributing to an overall sense of spaciousness. This is particularly important on long-haul flights where passengers may need to stretch and move around to maintain their comfort over extended periods.
Both the G650 and G650ER are capable of accommodating up to 19 passengers in their maximum configuration, while typically carrying 16 passengers. This capacity makes them suitable for a variety of missions, from business travel to family vacations, offering great flexibility to the operator.
Moreover, both aircraft feature a flat floor design throughout the cabin. A flat floor is advantageous as it provides a consistent, level surface that enhances passenger movement within the aircraft. It allows for easier and safer movement, particularly during turbulence, and contributes to the overall comfort and luxury feel of the cabin.
Interior
Two important aspects of the interior comfort of a private jet are the maximum cabin altitude and the altitude at which the aircraft can maintain a sea-level cabin.
The Gulfstream G650 and the Gulfstream G650ER both excel in these areas, offering identical performance.
Both aircraft feature a maximum cabin altitude of 4,100 feet (1,250 meters). This value refers to the highest altitude at which the cabin pressure can be maintained equivalent to an altitude of 4,100 feet above sea level.
This relatively low maximum cabin altitude is a significant benefit for passengers. At lower cabin altitudes, the air contains more oxygen, which helps to reduce the symptoms of hypoxia, such as fatigue, nausea, and headaches. This results in a more comfortable journey, particularly during long-haul flights where passengers spend extended periods in the aircraft.
Furthermore, both the G650 and the G650ER can maintain a sea-level cabin up to an altitude of 31,900 feet (9,723 meters). This means that even when the aircraft is cruising at high altitudes, the cabin pressure can be kept equivalent to that at sea level. This is beneficial as it further enhances passenger comfort and well-being. By maintaining a sea-level cabin up to such high altitudes, passengers can enjoy a more natural, comfortable environment for much of their journey.
Gulfstream G650
Of course, the G650 has a fantastic interior as expected with a Gulfstream.
The G650 boasts a spacious interior – described as “a refined getaway above the clouds”. The cabin can have up to four living areas, enough to work, dine, entertain and relax.
With one of the quietest cabins in business aviation, the G650 is the perfect place to relax. The G650 has a cabin noise level of just 47 decibels. A cabin altitude of 4,100 feet is the lowest in business aviation.
These two factors combine to guarantee that the G650 is supremely comfortable. Additionally, low cabin noise, low cabin altitude, and 100% fresh air ensure that you will arrive at your destination with minimal jet lag.
With 16 of the trademark Gulfstream large, oval windows provide the cabin with an abundance of natural light.
Providing both comfort and productivity, Gulfstream’s handcrafted seats allow you to settle in and enjoy the journey. Each seat is positioned next to a window.
When circumnavigating the globe, as expected, the G650 is able to provide fully flatbeds for the passengers. All single seats and divan convert to beds, providing you with a good night’s sleep.
Flying on the G650 entitles you to the top-of-the-range cabin amenities. Expect WiFi connectivity, a 42-inch flatscreen TV, video monitors, extensive galley facilities.
Gulfstream G650
Gulfstream G650ER
Gulfstream G650ER
The interior is identical to that of the standard G650.
The G650ER boasts a spacious interior – described as “a refined getaway above the clouds”. The cabin can have up to four living areas, enough to work, dine, entertain and relax.
With one of the quietest cabins in business aviation, the G650ER is the perfect place to relax. The G650ER has a cabin noise level of just 47 decibels. A cabin altitude of 4,100 feet is the lowest in business aviation. 4,100 feet is the cabin altitude when cruising at 51,000 feet. However, it is important to note that when cruising below 51,000 feet the cabin altitude is even lower.
These two factors combine guarantee that the G650ER is supremely comfortable. Additionally, low cabin noise and 100% fresh air ensure that you will arrive at your destination with minimal jet lag.
With 16 of the trademark Gulfstream large, oval windows provide the cabin with an abundance of natural light.
Providing both comfort and productivity, Gulfstream’s handcrafted seats allow you to settle in and enjoy the journey. Each seat is positioned next to a window.
When circumnavigating the globe, as expected, the G650ER is able to provide fully flat beds for the passengers. All single seats and divan convert to beds, providing you with a good nights sleep.
Flying on the G650ER entitles you to the top-of-the-range cabin amenities. Expect WiFi connectivity, a 42-inch flatscreen TV, video monitors, extensive galley facilities.
Charter Price
When it comes to renting these two aircraft, there is a slight difference between the estimated hourly cost.
The Gulfstream G650 typically costs around $10,500 per hour to charter. On the other hand, its counterpart, the Gulfstream G650ER, which offers extended range capabilities, comes with a slightly higher price tag of $11,000 per hour.
This difference in cost can be attributed to the enhanced performance and extended range of the G650ER, which allows it to fly non-stop over longer distances, thereby offering added convenience and saving precious time for its passengers.
However, it’s essential to remember that these costs are not set in stone and can fluctuate based on several key factors.
One such factor is the duration of the flight. Typically, longer flights come with a lower cost per hour as fixed costs like crew salaries, aircraft positioning, and handling fees are spread over more flying hours.
Secondly, the time of booking can also influence the charter cost. During peak travel seasons or times of high demand, charter rates may increase due to the higher demand for private jets. Conversely, during off-peak periods or times of lower demand, charter rates may decrease.
Lastly, the departure and arrival locations can impact the charter cost. Certain airports charge higher landing and handling fees, which can increase the overall cost of the charter. Similarly, flights to and from remote locations may incur additional costs due to the need for special arrangements or equipment.
Purchase Price
Now, let’s take a look at how much it costs to buy each variant and which one will hold its value better.
The Gulfstream G650 has a new list price of $65,000,000. On the pre-owned market, a 2020 model is estimated to cost around $53 million.
Assuming an annual depreciation rate of 5.79%, the future value of this aircraft in three years is projected to be around $44.3 million. This suggests that over the course of three years, the G650 would lose approximately $8.7 million in value.
On the other hand, the Gulfstream G650ER comes with a new list price of $70,000,000. A pre-owned model from 2020 is valued at $57,000,000.
With a slightly higher annual depreciation rate of 6.53%, the future value of the G650ER in three years is projected to be about $46.5 million. This indicates that the G650ER would lose approximately $10.5 million over the same three-year period.
From this comparison, it’s evident that while the G650ER has a higher acquisition cost, it also experiences a higher depreciation rate. Therefore, in terms of actual dollar amounts, the G650ER would lose more money over the ownership period.
However, it’s important to note that several factors can influence the depreciation rate of a private jet.
One such factor is the aircraft’s age. Older aircraft tend to depreciate at a faster rate compared to newer models.
Secondly, the total flight hours of the aircraft play a significant role. An aircraft with high flight hours will likely depreciate faster than one with fewer flight hours.
Lastly, the maintenance and upkeep of the aircraft can impact its depreciation rate. An aircraft that is well-maintained and regularly serviced may retain its value better compared to an aircraft that has not been properly maintained.
Summary
So, which aircraft should you choose if you are deciding between the G650 and G650ER? Does it just come down to range?
Well, the G650 and G650ER boast near-identical performance capabilities in most scenarios. Moreover, they have the same cabin.
The key difference is the cost. The G650ER costs more to buy and will lose more money over the ownership period.
Therefore, if you do not need the extra 500 nautical miles of range then the G650 is the more sensible choice.
