Piloted by Sandro Novelli, with co-pilot Charlie Honey and flight engineer Bhargav Bhavsar on board, the aircraft completed a flawless mission, executing a comprehensive series of tests as part of the production flight test programme. All systems and flight controls performed as expected, validating the design and engineering of this next-generation aircraft.

“The aircraft performed exceptionally well,” said Stephen McCullough, Senior Vice President of Engineering and Product Development. “This flight is another critical step in a journey that will redefine the business aviation landscape. With its ultra-low cabin altitude, signature smooth ride and unmatched speed and range, the Global 8000 is the aircraft of choice for those who demand the highest levels of performance and comfort.”

Following this successful test, the aircraft will be ferried to Bombardier’s Laurent Beaudoin Completion Centre in Montreal, where its bespoke interior will be fitted ahead of its anticipated entry-into-service in the second half of 2025.

David Murray, Executive Vice President of Manufacturing, IT, and Bombardier Operational Excellence System, commended the teams involved: “This first flight showcases the remarkable expertise and commitment of our engineering and flight test teams. Their precision and dedication are what make milestones like this possible.”

Touted as the fastest civil aircraft since the Concorde, the Global 8000 boasts a top speed of Mach 0.94 and an industry-leading range of 8,000 nautical miles. The jet’s remarkable reach will enable direct flights on routes such as Dubai to Houston, Singapore to Los Angeles, and London to Perth—previously beyond the capability of conventional business aircraft.

With a high-speed cruise of Mach 0.92 and runway performance comparable to much smaller aircraft, the Global 8000 delivers both time-saving efficiency and accessibility to airports previously off-limits to long-range jets.

Inside, the aircraft features four true living spaces and a separate crew rest area, along with the longest seated length in its class. Bombardier is also emphasising passenger health and comfort, with an ultra-low cabin altitude of 2,900 feet and the industry’s healthiest cabin environment.

The Global 8000 is a natural evolution of the acclaimed Global 7500, which has logged over 250,000 flying hours and more than 200 deliveries since its 2018 debut. It represents Bombardier’s latest push in its drive for excellence, innovation and customer-focused solutions in the ultra-long-range jet market.

About Bombardier
Bombardier designs, builds and supports some of the world’s highest-performing business aircraft for private, government, and military operators. With a global fleet exceeding 5,100 aircraft and a network of service centres across six countries, the company remains at the forefront of innovation. Bombardier’s jets are built across its facilities in Canada, the US, and Mexico, and in 2024, the brand earned the “Red Dot: Best of the Best” award for Brands and Communication Design.