Bombardier’s Global 8000 completes maiden flight
May 20, 2025
The first production model of Bombardier’s Global 8000 business jet has completed its maiden flight, ahead of the aircraft’s expected entry into service in the second half of 2025.
The flight took place on 16 May from the company’s assembly facility in Mississauga, Ontario, and involved a series of systems and flight control checks.
The Global 8000, which Bombardier is pitching as the fastest civil aircraft since Concorde with a top speed of Mach 0.94, will now move to the company’s completion centre in Montreal for interior installation.
The aircraft is designed to fly up to 8,000 nautical miles and aims to set “new benchmarks in range, cabin comfort, and performance for large business jets”.
“This first production flight marks yet another successful milestone for Bombardier’s Global 8000 program and we are very pleased with how the aircraft performed on its maiden journey,” said Stephen McCullough, Senior Vice President, Engineering and Product Development at Bombardier.
“Having this first production aircraft take to the skies is another important step in this journey that will redefine the business aviation landscape.
“With its low cabin altitude, luxurious and healthy cabin, signature smooth ride and unparalleled performance capabilities, the Global 8000 is the clear choice for discerning owners and operators who prioritize convenience and flexibility.”
The flight was operated by test pilot Sandro Novelli, co-pilot Charlie Honey and flight engineer Bhargav Bhavsar. Bombardier said all systems performed as expected.
“This is a very special accomplishment for our Global 8000 aircraft, the latest highlight for this transformational business jet,” said David Murray, Executive Vice President, Manufacturing, IT and Bombardier Operational Excellence System.
“This first flight is a reflection of the dedication and high skill level of our engineering, production and flight teams to follow through and execute with precision and mastery at all stages of the manufacturing and flight-testing process.”
The Global 8000 is an evolution of the Global 7500, which entered service in 2018 and has seen more than 200 deliveries.
While offering longer range and greater speed, the new aircraft also retains the 7500’s short-field performance, allowing it to operate from smaller airports.
It also features a four-zone cabin layout, a dedicated crew rest area, and what Bombardier describes as the industry’s lowest cabin altitude for improved passenger wellbeing.
