Bombardier Global 8000: Fastest civilian jet receives European approval

The Bombardier Global 8000, arguably the world's fastest civilian business jet at Mach 0.95 (approximately 1173 km/h), has now also received certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The aviation company Bombardier announced on Friday. At the end of November 2025, type certification had already been granted by Transport Canada, followed by approval for aviation by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in December.

The Bombardier Global 8000 is said to fly faster than the previous fastest business jet, the Cessna Citation X+, which has a speed of Mach 0.935, as well as the Gulfstream G700, which operates in a similar speed range to the Cessna. The cruising speed of the Bombardier Global 8000 is Mach 0.85, and on intercontinental flights, it is capable of traveling at Mach 0.92, Bombardier writes.

The aircraft is 33.8 m long, with a wingspan of 31.7 m and a height of 8.2 m. The jet is powered by two General Electric Passport engines, delivering a thrust of 84.16 kN. This enables the jet to take off and land on relatively short runways. For take-off, the Global 8000 requires approximately 1756 m, and for landings, about 677 m.

High Range Thanks to Smooth Flĕx Wing

The wing design, known as Smooth Flĕx Wing, is adapted for both low and very high speeds, effectively representing two wings in one: one for high lift at low speeds, ensuring high maneuverability, and a configuration that leverages its aerodynamic properties at high speeds to increase range. These wings are also intended to minimize vibrations and provide smoother flights, even in adverse weather conditions.

However, the jet has another advantage: the aircraft has a theoretical range of 8000 nautical miles (approximately 14,816 km) – hence the name Global 800. The aircraft is designed to reach the world's most important business center pairs non-stop. The cruising altitude is around 12.500 m.

The up to 19 passengers are accommodated in considerable luxury. On board are spacious, fully electrically adjustable lie-flat seats, glass tables, a three-seater couch, a double bed, a galley area, a lavatory with shower facilities, and a television with an entertainment system. The interior can be individually configured. Depending on the configuration, there may be less space allocated for passengers; the crew size is four people.

The business jet was put into service by Bombardier in December 2025. The list price is 78 million US dollars. However, depending on the configuration, it can also reach higher price ranges.

(olb)