The Gulfstream 650 continues to use and test its aircraft under serial number 6001. Recently, Gulfstream, the jet manufacturer that is located in Savannah, Georgia, flew its S/N 6001 on a test flight using only an electrically powered, fly-by-wire (FBW) backup flight-control actuation system. The entire flight was approximately 3 1/2 hours and four pilots were on board to test the system which was ran about 2 1/2 hours and during that test time the jet performed 5 landings using the FBW system.
The system is different from most as it works on electric backup instead of using hydraulics like most systems. Gulfstream’s FBW is designed for the G650 as electric backup hydraulic actuators (EBHA)–one at every primary control surface (elevator, rudder and aileron) and the outboard spoiler. This is great news and the Senior Vice President of programs, engineering and test discussed the test stating:
“The system performed flawlessly. There was no difference in handling qualities between the electrically and hydraulically powered modes.”
This is good news for the Gulfstream team that is working on the 650. Personally I am watching the progress of the Gulfstream 650 as this jet has always been one of my favorites, ad who knows I may some day have the Gulfstream 650 as part of my fleet.