Introducing the Latest Gulfstream: the G500

December 21, 2015 No Comments

Riding on the tailwind of a highly successful year, Gulfstream’s smash-hit G650 is followed by a new aircraft, the Gulfstream 500, or G500. While the G650 made use of remarkable new technologies and continuing development with customer input, Gulfstream designers are proving once again that they can deliver what business flyers really want.

High-flying debut

The G500 made its first cross-country trip at the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) Convention and Exhibition in Las Vegas in November. The Gulfstream test pilots flew from Savannah, Georgia, into 75-knot headwinds and still accomplished the 1,630 nautical-mile flight in just 4 hours, 36 minutes.

Averaging a speed of Mach 0.85 and an altitude of 45,000 feet, the G500 is proving to be the fastest- and highest-flying aircraft to come from the Gulfstream development team yet.

Practical efficiency

Some facts about the Gulfstream 500:

• Maximum range is 5,000 nautical miles
• Maximum operating speed (Mach) is 0.925
• Maximum cruising altitude is 51,000 feet

The width and height of the aircraft give it the optimal size and shape for speed, maneuverability, and fuel efficiency, while being large enough to carry up to 19 passengers. Fresh air, 100% replenished every two minutes, keeps the cabin refreshing; and the pressurized interior (to no more than 4,850 feet) significantly reduces jet lag.

Comfortable luxury

Of course, the G500 wouldn’t be a Gulfstream if it didn’t include sublime levels of comfort.

• Panoramic windows allow for captivating views and plenty of natural light.
• Cabin seats are equipped with built-in storage and touch-screen entertainment.
• Exceptional baggage volume includes fold-down shelving that can be individually configured.
• Hand-stitched leather, silk, or cashmere carpet and wood veneers complete the look.

Two additions to the Gulfstream 500 flight-test program are now undergoing rigorous testing. Certification is expected to be complete in 2017 and the first deliveries available in 2018.

Contact L & L International if you need assistance in purchasing or selling a private jet. You can reach our sales specialists today at sales@L-Lint.com, call us any time at +1.305.754.3313, or visit us online.

Fly Safely and Comfortably this Holiday with 6 Travel Tips

December 21, 2015 No Comments

Fly Safely and Comfortably this Holiday with 6 Travel Tips

As 2015 comes to a close and we look forward to our holiday travel plans, these helpful tips can make flying easier and more comfortable.

1. Plan for weather disruptions. Weather can disrupt all kinds of travel plans, from getting to the airport all the way to creating havoc out of flight patterns. Understand this and have a backup plan or two in your pocket, and the disruptions won’t be as uncomfortable.
2. Dress for comfort with style. While comfort is important on a flight, so is style. Carolina Herrera,in an interview with The Wall Street Journal, said her greatest fashion pet peeve is “… how people dress at the airport. It’s terrible. You know, if you dress up at the airport you will actually be taken care of perfectly. You’ll be the one who the stewards look after the most.”
3. Pack for everything from meetings to parties. If you know where you’re going ahead of time, you can pack accordingly — but be prepared for a range of events, from business meetings to parties and evening soirees. The holidays are a time of connecting and magic, but it wouldn’t be the holiday season without a few surprise encounters.
4. Arrive with a lovely gift for the host or hostess. This is especially true if you are a guest on a private flight. The exception to this rule is if the flight is a business trip shared with colleagues. Otherwise, a thoughtful gift of chocolates or a personalized item tells the host or hostess you appreciate the invitation and are respectful of their efforts.
5. Be on time and be polite. You never want to be the one to cause a late start, so be on time. Smile, say “thank you,” and make eye contact to let those around you know that you care and appreciate their actions.
6. Plan carefully if you are taking children and pets along. It’s a great time to take the children and pets with, but it’s important to keep them calm and comfortable while in flight. Smaller pets should be in a carrier that is connected to a seat belt during takeoff and landing, rather than blocking the aisle. The safest way for large dots to fly is with a body harness, not a collar.If you’re flying with small children, the stroller can often go straight onto the jet, giving you the freedom to keep the child comfortable and secure while you find your seat and put things away. Bring the safety seat you’d use in a car for children 2 years and younger. It’s great to introduce kids to flying early so they are better flyers later!

Contact L & L International if you need assistance in purchasing or selling a private jet. You can reach our sales specialists today at sales@L-Lint.com, call us any time at +1.305.754.3313, or visit us online.

Monitor Cabin Control with Your Apple Watch

December 16, 2015 No Comments

The latest smart technology coming out of the labs at Apple Inc. is a smartwatch, Apple’s latest and reportedly most-personal computer. The Apple Watch incorporates fitness tracking and other health capabilities and is designed to free people from their smartphones by putting upgraded technology on their wrists. Not a standalone device, the watch works by connecting via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi to the phone and then gives the wearer a new way to engage with apps beyond the phone.

It also gives app developers a whole new playing field.

App cabin control

Last year, Honeywell Aerospace demonstrated smartphone apps for controlling an aircraft cabin. Those apps were dropped from production, however, when the Apple Watch was introduced and Honeywell turned its sights on creating app-controlled cabin systems for aircraft equipped with its Ovation™ Select Cabin Management System (CMS). Lighting, display monitoring, temperature, electronic shades, and more can now be managed using the wearable device.

Watch and learn

Instead of hitting an attendant call button, passengers can notify flight attendants from their watches, giving them the opportunity to remain engaged in conversations, for example, instead of picking up and looking at their phones. Passengers can also be notified of when they should buckle their seat belts by the watch app — all without creating noise in the cabin or disturbing what’s in progress.

Ovation Select

Some of the key features of the Ovation Select CMS include:

• High-definition (HD) entertainment, including HD widescreens and high-performance audio systems with video on demand
• Integrated docking systems for distribution of media throughout the cabin from an iPad or iPhone
• Environment monitoring for cabin temperature, lighting, all galley operations, and more
• Multi-user capabilities, with the ability to control all integrated elements in different zones throughout the aircraft

Already designed for true flying convenience, the Ovation Select System is now fully optimized with the app. Now everyone on board can relax and enjoy the latest entertainment or collaborate on projects with complete independence.

Contact L & L International if you need assistance in purchasing or selling a private jet. You can reach our sales specialists today at sales@L-Lint.com, call us any time at +1.305.754.3313, or visit us online.

Gulfstream Aerospace Flying High Through 3rd Quarter

December 9, 2015 No Comments

Making its first flight in August 1958, Grumman Gulfstream I was the world’s first “purpose-built business aircraft” and the brainchild of Roy Grumman, co-founder of Grumman Aircraft Engineering Corporation. Many of the 200 Grumman Gulfstream I aircraft produced are still in service today, each one a testament to the quality and flying history that is Gulfstream. Grumman followed that effort by giving business flyers the ability to cross oceans with the Gulfstream II, which first crossed the Atlantic in May 1958 — a short 10 years later.

Luxury meets demand

Gulfstream Aerospace continues to prove successful in 2015 for parent company General Dynamics Corp. (GD), as it announced its highest-ever quarterly revenue and fifth-consecutive profitable quarter exceeding $400 million. Sales of both midsize- and large-cabin Gulfstream aircraft are reported to be strong, with demand highly concentrated in North America.

The private jet that is on every millionaire’s holiday wish list, the Gulfstream G650, still has a 4-year waiting list. Owners of this particular jet include fashion designer Ralph Lauren and director of The Lord of the Rings series Peter Jackson.

Defense orders boost earnings

GD investors are pleased by the recent report of third-quarter earnings at $2.28 per share (an 11.2% increase from the previous year), due to higher orders from the defense sector in addition to continued demand from the private market. Company revenues of $7.99 billion were the result of the successful deliveries of 12 midsize-cabin jets and six large-cabin aircraft, among other sales, beating earnings estimates.

On the horizon

Gulfstream engineers work their design and development magic at the Research and Development Center in Savannah, Georgia, where laboratories feature the only hemi-anechoic (or echo-free) chamber used in the development of business aircraft. The room is designed to completely absorb sound and used for sound testing. The results, of course, are the reason why Gulfstream aircraft are considered some of the quietest airplanes in existence today.

We wish Gulfstream congratulations and have high hopes of continued high-flying innovations in the coming year.

Contact L & L International if you need assistance in purchasing or selling a private jet. You can reach our sales specialists today at sales@L-Lint.com, call us any time at +1.305.754.3313, or visit us online.

It’s Back to Business Trips

November 23, 2015 No Comments

Ah, it’s back to work for many of us. Whether you’re a frequent business traveler or just take a few business trips a year, having the right gear makes a difference. The trip you take and what you do while you’re gone may vary, but in most cases, your list of travel gear remains consistent every time you travel to meet a business client or attend an important conference. This gear will keep you happy, organized, and feeling refreshed on your trip.

1. Carry-on

If you fly often, you know that waiting for your bag is no picnic. If you fly a combination of commercial and private flights, then you also know that there is no standard size for a carry-on bag. It depends on the carrier and the space available in the plane. When you fly private, you have more leeway on liquids and, in most cases, the size of your carry-on. Plus, your carry-on will usually be available as quickly as you step off the plane — even if it’s loaded in the cargo hold. Either way, flying with a carry-on-sized bag versus an oversized bag is just plain smart. Our recommended features:

• Lightweight frame
• Non-black color (slate grey or navy blue work well)
• Bigger wheels (more stability over bumps)
• Exterior pockets
• Telescoping handle

2. Bluetooth headset

Not only for taking meetings on the road or listening to music, a Bluetooth is critical for safe driving and foot navigation. Headsets are ideal for staying connected with your environment while also answering that all-important incoming call.

3. Tablet portfolio

Long gone are the days of the laptop computer — we’ve moved to tablets and the cloud for a multitude of reasons:

• Lightweight
• Easy to use
• Entertainment-ready

Keeping your tablet safe from falls, spills, and other dangers is just as important as protecting your smartphone. Find a case that combines style with rugged safety.

4. Dopp kit

The perfect way to keep your toiletries, hair products, and makeup organized and accessible is a high-quality dopp kit. Ideally, it will be water-resistant so it can easily move from steamy bathrooms into your suitcase and keep your clothes safe from accidents. How do you choose the perfect size? Put everything you need on a daily basis in travel size into a plastic bag and measure it — height, length, and width. Then, go online to find the right bag (e-bags has plenty of options and easy filtering).

5. Cord organizer

Until technology companies get into the game of giving us all universal cords, we’re just going to have to suffer carrying five to seven cords on every trip. A KangaRoom Travel Cord Organizerkeeps all those cords wrapped up and handy, and it includes space for a power strip. Now you can unzip, insert one plug, and you’re ready to charge everything in your bag.

Calm business trips are entirely dependent on being prepared.

Contact L & L International if you need assistance in purchasing or selling a private jet. You can reach our sales specialists today at sales@L-Lint.com, call us any time at +1.305.754.3313, or visit us online.

Electric Trains, Cars, and … Airplanes?

November 18, 2015 No Comments

In just 15 years, lightweight aircraft could be powered by new, lithium-ion batteries. These aircraft are likely to be the “flying cars” made of lightweight material and powered by superconductor technology. They will also be able to take off and land using much less space, making obtaining a pilot’s license the new rite-of-passage, possibly replacing the driver’s license.

A brief history of electric planes

The history of electric aircraft is short. The Tissandier brothers flew an electric-powered airship in the 1880s, but it wasn’t until 1970 that electric planes started to become slightly more commonplace. Some early experimental electric planes were solar-powered, but those planes were not developed into the planes we see today. In 2007, Randall Fishman flew a battery-operated tricycle hang glider at Airventure Oshkosh. Fishman has since continued experimenting and designing motored gliders powered by battery. He’s not alone, either — a European Aeronautic Defense and Space Company (EADS), the original name for Airbus Group SE (or “societas Europaea,” Latin for European company), crew flew an electric plane in 2009, and Chinese aircraft manufacturer Yuneec’s team appears to be close to selling an electric-powered plane to the public.

Technology advances for climate security

In the trend of all things electric, the potential for zero emissions has great appeal. Current attitudes about carbon dioxide and its impact on the environment are pushing the value of electric flight. Just as sales of electric cars are increasing by as much as 500%, the desire for quiet, efficient, clean airplanes is likely to increase just as quickly.

Range is the key to electric flight

While there is plenty of interest from pilots, early electric aircraft don’t yet provide the range for anything beyond short flights. To date, there are no electric aircraft on the design tables that are capable of long-distance flights. Until the advent of the super battery, electric planes will likely remain limited in their capabilities.

Training on electric airplanes

The commercial side of electric planes may, however, be less about taking lots of people from here to there and more about teaching new pilots how to fly. Flight schools are taking a serious interest in electric planes because they are less expensive, simpler to fly, and quieter — allowing them to operate in regions with noise controls in place. In the near term, the flight school administrators may gobble up the planned production of electric planes and use them to teach new pilots the art of flying.

Contact L & L International if you need assistance in purchasing or selling a private jet. You can reach our sales specialists today at sales@L-Lint.com, call us any time at +1.305.754.3313, or visit us online.

Airport Hospitality Is Not Just for Stranded Passengers

November 12, 2015 No Comments

In a twist of roles, airport developers now want their hotels to be your next destination, rather than just a stop on your way to somewhere else. They believe in the luxury of not having to hop into a van or rent a car to have a little fun or hold a meeting. Their innovative design plans will outweigh the current view of hotel airports as less-than-desirable destinations.

After all, airport hotels have long had the reputation of being only for stranded passengers and tired airline crews. The vacancy rates of airport hotels typically run as high as 75%. To fill that empty space, airport designers are now getting into the destination game in an effort to transform their hotels into destinations of choice for picky travelers.

So far, five have announced plans to build hotel complexes:

1. San Francisco International Airport
2. Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport
3. Baltimore-Washington International Airport
4. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
5. Denver International Airport

Their designers are hoping to give non-airport hotels a run for their money, too.

Designed for efficiency

In addition to not having to rent a car or hop on a hotel shuttle, these new airport hotels will have built-in efficiencies that are likely to challenge non-airport hotels, including:

• Keyless entry systems
• Loyalty program integration
• App reservations and check-ins
• Modern conference facilities
• Access to public transportation

All designer plans so far expect the hotels to be four-star minimum and include commuter-rail-to-terminal transportation, as well as open-air plazas and observation decks.

FAA and TSA

There are potential wrinkles in the plans as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) weigh in. The FAA is concerned with building height, location, and, in some cases, the building materials. The TSA is concerned about the planners’ desires to enclose passengers within the security zone so they don’t have to re-enter security.

The next time you’re booking a trip, don’t be surprised if you’re offered a stay at an airport hotel — and not just because you expect to miss your flight!

Contact L & L International if you need assistance in purchasing or selling a private jet. You can reach our sales specialists today at sales@L-Lint.com, call us any time at +1.305.754.3313, or visit us online.

High-Flying Air Surfing Is Here

November 3, 2015 No Comments

Members of the Perlan Project, sponsored by theAirbus Group, successfully launched an engineless plane in September, and the world of aviation is abuzz. The Perlan Project is a volunteer, non-profit endeavor whose members share the history-making goal of opening the world to new discoveries in high-altitude flight. Those working on the project hope to learn more about climate change and speed up space exploration.

In the true spirit of exploration, Perlan Mission 2 will push the boundaries of aviation development with implications on future aircraft performance and safety, especially as it operates without an engine and is operated by a crew at very high altitudes.

No-engine high flyer

The Perlan 2 glider is a pressurized sailplane designed to ride air currents. In some mountainous regions near the South and North poles, the height of those air currents can reach into the Earth’s stratosphere, which means the Perlan 2 can reach the outer edges of our atmosphere. The glider is expected to reach heights of 90,000 feet next year, and its flight speed at that altitude is more than 400 miles per hour.

Of course, air density at that height is less than 2% of what it is at sea level, so the two-person crew breathes pure oxygen through a system similar to what astronauts use in space.

Planetary implications

The new, engineless plane is operated in atmospheric conditions similar to those on Mars, which will provide valuable insight into how winged aircraft will operate in the atmosphere above the surface of that yet-to-be explored planet.

Closer to home, the Perlan 2 is designed to explore the edge of space without polluting the atmosphere it is designed to study. Specifically, data collected during use of the sailplane will increase our knowledge on several critical fronts, including:

• Understanding weather changes
• Predicting climate change
• Diagnosing the ozone layer

The Perlan 2 will also have implications on the future of aviation. Many of the data researchers will collect on high-altitude weather phenomena they will encounter will inform aircraft developers about the performance and safety of planes in those conditions. This will be especially important as the commercial side of the aviation industry looks for ways to operate aircraft at higher altitudes.

Contact L & L International if you need assistance in purchasing or selling a private jet. You can reach our sales specialists today at sales@L-Lint.com, call us any time at +1.305.754.3313, or visit us online.

Image source: www.perlanproject.org.