The Bombardier Global Express is an ultra long range corporate and VIP high speed jet aircraft produced by Bombardier Aerospace. The Bombardier Global 5000 is a slightly shorter version.
The Global 5000 (model designation BD-700-1A11) is a derivative based on Global Express, with 0.813 m (32 in) reduction in forward fuselage length, and 1,200 nm reduction in maximum range. Seating capacity is up to 19 passengers. The aircraft was announced on October 25, 2001 with the official launch on 5 February 2002, after a positive market assessment with letters of intent for 15 aircraft. The Global Express XRS (rebranded as Global 6000) is an improved version of the original aircraft, (announced on October 6, 2003 during the NBAA Convention at Orlando (Florida)) offering higher cruise speed, increased range, improved cabin layout and lighting.
At the time of the Global 5000’s release, Bombardier called the Global 5000 “the world’s fastest” ultra-long range private jet. It is designed to be slightly smaller and faster than the Global Express, for those that value reliability and speed, without using the extensive range capabilities of the Express. It can fly eight passengers and three crew members 4,800 nautical miles nonstop at a speed of .85 Mach. It is impressive in its speed, cabin size, and reliability.
Bombardier was anything but stingy in the design of the Global 5000’s cabin. It usually holds eight passengers, but is able to hold seventeen in a high-density configuration. The cabin measures 37.3 feet long, 8.2 feet wide and 6.2 feet high – five feet shorter than the length of the Global Express. The total cabin volume is 1,881 cubic feet, and even though the cabin is significantly shorter than that of the Global Express, the passengers may not notice. The majority of the space reduction came from the crew rest and galley areas (the oversized galley of the Global Express was reduced to a full-sized one in the Global 5000). Only ten inches of space was taken from the main passenger area.
Despite the decrease in fuselage length, the cabin still has plenty of room for cabin amenities and business equipment. The full-sized galley comes with a microwave, espresso machine, facilities for hot and cold food preparation and storage, and a custom china and cutlery set. The cabin features a Rockwell Collins Cabin Electronics System (CES), which provides high-speed internet, LAN connections, satellite TV, a multimedia system (including a multi-disc CD player, two DVD players, and 3-D maps), wireless phones, scanner and fax machines, and several touch screens to control the cabin’s systems.
The cabin itself is very comfortable; sound insulation has been improved from the Global Express so that cabin noise levels never exceed 52 dB. A new window design lets in more light and provides a better view, and long-life LEDs provide better cabin illumination. Special seat cushions designed by NASA, which mold to a passenger’s body shape when activated by their body heat, can be added if desired.
The Global 5000 is powered by two Rolls-Royce Deutschland BR710A2-20 turbofan engines. Each engine produces 14,750 pounds of thrust on takeoff, a performance standard that it can achieve in temperatures up to 95°F. The maximum range of the Global 5000, while flying at .85 Mach (488 knots), is 5,520 miles (4,800 nautical miles). Its high speed cruise is .89 Mach, or 499 knots. Its takeoff range is exceptionally short: when loaded to its maximum takeoff weight of 87,700 pounds, it can take off in only 5,000 feet. The jet is able to climb to 43,000 feet in 23 minutes.
Bombardier chose the Honeywell Primus 2000XP avionics suite for the Global 5000. It includes TCAS 2000, EGPWS, GPS, and a Central Aircraft Information Maintenance System (CAIMS), which helps private jet mechanics in troubleshooting. Optional additions include the Crew Emergency Vision Assistance System (EVAS), which gives the crew backup oxygen masks and smoke goggles. As soon as the system is triggered, bags inflate with clean air over the flight control displays and windshield so that pilots can see clearly and fly, even in a smoke-filled cockpit. Additional passenger safety equipment is available as well.
The second generation of the private jet Global series is designed for people that need transcontinental and transoceanic range, but that do not need to fly more than ten hours nonstop. Bombardier, already well-renowned in the private jet industry, has only increased their prestige with the Global 5000.
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