Gulfstream G500 and G600 Secure EASA Steep-Approach Certification

Gulfstream Aerospace has achieved another significant milestone with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) granting steep-approach landing certification to the Gulfstream G500 and G600. The approval further expands the operational flexibility of these award-winning business jets, enabling access to a wider range of airports across Europe and beyond, including those with challenging terrain, short runways, or noise-sensitive environments.

The certification allows the G500 and G600 to operate at airports that require steep descent profiles, such as London City Airport in the United Kingdom and Lugano Airport in Switzerland. These airports are known for demanding approach procedures that require aircraft to maintain precise control at low speeds while descending at steeper-than-normal glide paths. With this approval, Gulfstream operators gain access to destinations that are often inaccessible to larger or less capable business aircraft.

Mark Burns, the President of Gulfstream Aerospace, emphasised the significance of the accomplishment for customers. He noted that operators already benefit from the exceptional performance, efficiency, and comfort of the G500 and G600, and that EASA steep-approach certification further enhances fleet versatility. For European operators in particular, the approval opens up new operational possibilities, including direct access to city-centre airports and remote destinations where runway length or approach constraints have previously limited aircraft choice.

The G500 and G600 are no strangers to steep-approach operations. Both aircraft previously earned steep-approach certification from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), with the G500 approved in 2023 and the G600 following in 2024. Achieving EASA certification required Gulfstream to demonstrate the same high standards of performance, handling qualities, and safety under European regulatory oversight.

As part of the certification programme, the aircraft successfully conducted steep-approach operations at London City and Lugano, two airports frequently used as benchmarks for advanced approach capability. These demonstrations validated the aircraft’s ability to maintain stable, controlled descents while meeting stringent speed, noise and handling requirements. The tests also confirmed the jets’ short-field landing performance and responsive low-speed handling, both critical for safe operations in confined airport environments.

The steep-approach capability is supported by Gulfstream’s advanced flight control systems, aerodynamics and avionics. Features such as enhanced flight control laws, powerful braking systems and precise thrust management enable pilots to fly demanding approach profiles with confidence. Combined with Gulfstream’s Symmetry Flight Deck and active control sidesticks, the G500 and G600 offer high levels of situational awareness and workload reduction during complex terminal operations.

Operationally, the certification is particularly valuable for business aviation customers who prioritise time efficiency and access. Airports such as London City offer unmatched proximity to major financial and business centres, reducing ground transfer times and increasing productivity for passengers. The ability to operate into such airports without compromising safety or comfort is a key differentiator in the large-cabin business jet market.

The achievement also reflects the maturity and reliability of the G500 and G600 fleet. Today, more than 350 aircraft are in service worldwide, collectively accumulating over 350,000 flight hours and 173,000 landings. The fleet has also set more than 120 city-pair speed records, underscoring the aircraft’s combination of range, speed, and efficiency.

Beyond performance metrics, the certification reinforces Gulfstream’s long-standing commitment to innovation and regulatory excellence. Since the first flight of the Gulfstream I in 1958, the company has consistently pushed the boundaries of business aviation. Backed by parent company General Dynamics, Gulfstream continues to invest heavily in research, development and customer support.

Gulfstream I

The G500 and G600 form a central part of Gulfstream’s next-generation aircraft family, which spans the super-midsize to ultra-long-range segments. Alongside newer platforms such as the G700 and G800, the aircraft demonstrate Gulfstream’s focus on delivering mission flexibility, advanced technology, and global operational capability.

With EASA steep-approach certification now in place, the G500 and G600 further cement their position as highly capable, versatile business jets, offering operators expanded access, enhanced mission profiles and the confidence to operate into some of the world’s most demanding airports.