Altitudes Europe #42

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Dassault 7X - flagship of the range

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IRON The top 7

Ultra-long range aircraft head the traditional business jet hierarchy, offering the best dedicated cabins, technology, and performance. There are quite a few models to choose from so Altitudes compares the leaders to see if there is a clear winner.

BY: Ivan Veretennikov

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T

here are various classifications of business jets,

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but it seems fair to say that seven models can be considered ultra-long range aircraft. The G650 offers a whopping 12,964 km non-stop flights, and the G450 closes the list with 8056 km. Indeed, until the appearance of the sleek and stylish Dassault Falcon 7X in 2003, just two manufacturers, namely Gulfstream and Bombardier, dominated this end of the market. It’s a lucrative place to be, with profit margins reaching maximums and demand being least affected by economic fluctuations. At the economic high point, just before crisis struck in 2008, these jets enjoyed an order backlog of up to 6 years, while earlier delivery slots were sold at huge premiums. Since then only one new plane has come to market – or, to be more precise – should be coming in the next few months. That is the new Gulfstream flagship, costing even more than its siblings, but offering the first clean-sheet design from this manufacturer since the GIII and performance that outdoes all competition.

The new members of the Bombardier Global family that were announced at last year’s NBAA in Atlanta – the 7000 and 8000 – will also be clean-sheet designs, and their design goals are even higher… but for now they remain quite remote, with deliveries slotted to start in 2017 and 2018, respectively. Therefore, we will be looking at the following models: The G450, G500, G550, and G650 by Gulfstream; the Global 5000 and Global 6000 (recently rebranded from the Global Express XRS) by Bombardier; and the Dassault Falcon 7X.

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Many buyers are upgrade customers who's loyalty is very high

The Tools Personal impressions are very important in choosing an aircraft, and very often a decision to buy is made as much on impulse as based on solid figures. However, if our comparison is to be at all credible, we need reliable sources of information for the analysis.

Many of the specifications and performance figures come from the Altitudes own database, especially those used in the Global Guide to Bizjets and Helicopters. Some come from sources such as the Business & Commercial Aviation Purchase Planning Handbook, and operating costs figures are sourced from available information by Conklin & de Decker. Upcast JetBook, the handy iPad app that allows quick access to relevant figures and aircraft comparisons, was used alongside the UpRate coefficient, developed by its publisher.

By performing certain calculations based on the price, range, cabin size, and max takeoff weight, it is possible to understand the relative efficiency of each aircraft, and this also serves as an indication of value for money: the less you pay for the best performance, the higher the ratio.

The Brands These three manufacturers are the best in their business. A ULR aircraft must have close-to-perfect aerodynamics, an advanced wing, light structure, high-altitude capability, and they must be able

There is no such thing as a bad aeroplane, especially at this level

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Luxurious cabins are important - this is where the flying is done

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Personal impressions are very important in choosing an aircraft and often a decision to buy is based as much on impulse as solid figures

to carry a significant fuel load. Bombardier, Dassault, and Gulfstream have made some of the best business aircraft in history, and have come out as the only ones with these long-range marvels in their lineup.

The Globals win in cabin size, with width being the key factor: Bombardier jets tend to be a lot wider than the competition, which creates a feeling of space that the others don’t quite match.

Advanced GlobalVision integrated flight decks and powerful Rolls Royce BR710 engines (the same type as those installed on the G500/G550) ensure a safe and fast ride, as well as good rate of climb, bettered only by the 7X. In Dassault you pay extra for technology: it’s the most modern of the seven (bar the G650) and features fly-by-wire, three extremely efficient and quiet Pratt & Whitney Canada PW 307A engines, interceptor-like accuracy and dynamics – the Dassault military heritage sure helps – plus a cockpit that is as ergonomic as it is advanced. This helps it achieve the lowest variable costs of the competition, as well as lowest depreciation rates.

Gulfstream has always been the film star: overt luxury, huge windows, state-of-the-art technology, and – if emotions are anything to go by – tangible sex appeal. There is no such thing as a bad aeroplane, especially at this level, but each brand is very individual and unique. You will probably make your first choice based on just the looks.

The Display The seven business jets are relatively close in their UpRate, with the drop from the highest G650 to the lowest G450 constituting just 3.367 – to put this in perspective, the difference between the BBJ and the Citation Mustang is an enormous 21.854. A look at the comparison table will show, however, that the dispersion of key characteristics is much greater. For example, the Global 6000 will cost around $57,500,000 and offer a cabin volume of 60.6 m3, while the significantly cheaper Falcon 7X priced at $48,600,000 (that’s 15.5% cheaper) has a cabin volume of 42.48 m3 (almost 30% less). But while the 7X is a lot more…cozy, it wins back points in its range, which is almost the same as that of the Global 6000 (11,019 km VS 11,344 km).

As a buyer, you will be interested in the interior – after all this is where the flying will be done. As mentioned above, Bombardier jets tend to be wider, offering a different cabin feel. More space

The seven jets are relatively close in their Up Rate

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Global 6000

G500

G550

Global 5000

Falcon 7X

G450

Manufacturer

Gulfstream

Bombardier

Gulfstream

Gulfstream

Bombardier

Dassaul

Gulfstream

Relative Efficienty UpRate (1)

11,632

10,922

10,488

10,380

9,926

9,190

8,265

Price Tag

US$ 64 500 000 US$ 57 500 000 US$ 45 500 000 US$ 53 500 000 US$ 49 100 000 US$ 48 600 000 US$ 39 000 000

Range (NM)

7 000

6 125

5 800

6 750

4 954

5 949

4 349

Cabin Vol m3

60,54

60,60

47,26

47,26

57,26

42,48

43,18

MTOW kg (2)

45 178

43 091

38 601

41 277

39 780

31 298

33 520

Variable Costs ($/h) (3)

-

US$ 4 718

US$ 4 093

US$ 4 106

US$ 4 659

US$ 3 389

US$ 4 017

Yearly Fixed Costs (4)

-

US$ 925 895

US$ 966 853

US$ 974 854

US$ 916 628

US$ 860 363

US$ 821 788

Cabin Size

Arrangement

+

Today's best of Better value for Better value for Large cabin.

Enormous range. the best. Clean- relative efficiency relative efficiency Less expensive Cabin windows. sheet design. than the G550. than the G550. than G6000.

Hi-tech. Fuel efficiency. Slow depreciation.

Great value.

Low costs.

-

Expensive. Long Shorter range.

Shorter range.

High fixed costs. delivery time. High fixed costs. High fixed costs.

Smaller cabin.

Lower Dollar to space ratio.

Less range.

Smaller cabin.

High variable costs.

1. RELATIVE EFFICIENCY IS THE CORRESPONDENCE OF MAX TAKEOFF WEIGHT, RANGE AND CABIN VOLUME, DIVIDED

BY THE LIST PRICE. 2. MTOW IS MAXIMUM TAKEOFF WEIGHT. 3.VARIABLE COSTS ARE FUEL, CREW AND MAINTENANCE. 4. YEARLY FIXED COSTS ARE WHAT YOU PAY EVEN IF YOU DON'T FLY AND INCLUDE HANGERAGE INSURANCE ETC.

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Ultra long range business jets are the most advanced expensive and capable aircraft designed specifically for the needs of business to move around in, while all the equipment options you would expect on a modern business jet, including connectivity, entertainment, lighting, galley, etc. will be available. The pressurization system may behave a bit more jerkily than that of the competition, though the cabin altitude is just 1800 m when any one of the Globals is flying at its maximum altitude of 15545 m. – exactly the same as the G550 and Falcon 7X. The G650 promises to settle the dispute with a much lower (1480 m) cabin altitude at the same ceiling.

Dassault always make a point of having very quiet cabins, and the 7X is a benchmark in this respect with a 52 dB cabin noise level – comparable to a car – thanks to an advanced engine mount system and various improvements in sound insulation. As for space, the 7X offers the smallest volume of the business jets mentioned in this article – however, it is still a stand-up cabin that betters aircraft such as the Embraer Legacy 600 and Dassault Falcon 900.

The huge windows are Gulfstream’s big advantage in terms of cabin comfort, though the other indicators are also top-notch. An all-new philosophy was born in the making of the G650. It will have a high-tech cabin boasting great systems redundancy, powered chairs, modern touch screen controls, and even a special application for Apple devices such as the iPhone or iPad that will allow a passenger to control most settings without ever touching a remote. This concept has since been implemented in the G450 and G280, albeit with less functionality, and will make the travel experience much more technological.

There are no losers in this class

The Conclusion Ultra-long range bizjets are the most advanced, expensive, and capable aircraft designed specifically for the needs of business, and any one of them is a state-of-the-art machine with great productivity, low depreciation, and a high appetite. They only make sense when long trips constitute most of your travelling – unless the acquisition is made for status reasons or the will to get “simply the best” – but will sell well on the charter market and finally return a large share of the investment on the pre-owned market.

The initial choice will usually be between the brands. Many buyers are upgrade customers, whose loyalty is very high, while most first-time shoppers will already form an impression of the aeroplane they want from the first few displays or demo flights. There is no place for emotions in an analysis, however, so we would be better off basing some conclusions on solid figures.

The G650 is the new king, offering the best of the best at the highest price. The nearest available slots are said to be around 2017, with a big line of customers wanting the most modern offer from Gulfstream. The Global 6000 and G550 are aimed squarely at each other, with the Global 6000 being $4 million more expensive, but offering a significantly larger cabin. This in turn is countered by a greater maximum range of the Gulfstream. The G500 flies farther than the Global 5000 and costs less, but yet again loses a lot in cabin size.

The Falcon 7X is in a league of its own, with a high dollar per cubic metre ratio and a smaller cabin than the rest of the competition, yet offering advanced technology, up to 35% better fuel economy, lower operating costs, and the quietest cabin in its class. The G450, although being at the bottom of the table in range, will still connect you with all of Europe, Africa, and Asia out of Dubai, and the East Coast of the US, as well as most of Africa, Middle East, Asia, and Russia out of Europe.

Its attractive price tag and the signature Gulfstream aftersales support also make it a great option, especially for those who can carefully balance their needs and budget.

It is safe to say there are no losers in this class. All models have been immensely successful and in demand among High Net Worth Individuals, governments, and corporations worldwide, with sales continuing and deliveries going on. This market segment has also been the least affected by the economic turbulence, so they can all be regarded as the best investment of money – not ❚ to mention a great business tool.

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HELICOPTERS THE CAUCASUS EXPERIENCE The magnificent mountains of the Caucasus are a beautiful sight even from ground level, but to fly over them among the clouds and witness their snow-capped peaks in solitude is an experience unlike any other. Heliaction, the Russian helicopter club and school, can take you there, teach you to fly, and then drop you off for a ski ride. BY Larisa Repina and Ivan Veretennikov

B Robinson helicopters are abundant in Russia, and these brightly-coloured ones have proven themselves ideal for flying among the wondrous landscapes of the North Caucasus.

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efore we start, it is worth giving some background on private helicopter flying in Russia – so that the achievements of Heliaction are seen in the context of the obstacles the club has had to overcome. It is estimated that there are a little over 400 helicopters of foreign make in Russia today, of which 300 are the popular light Robinsons – piston machines that are a common sight all over the world. Then come about 80 Eurocopters of various models, over 20 Bells and somewhere around 15 Agustas (their number is now growing quite

fast, and assembly of the AW139 is soon to start near Moscow, so it is hard to keep up).

MD Helicopters has been on the threshold of this market for years, but with no real achievements so far. Only several machines are flying after years of marketing efforts.

There are also quite a few unregistered and legally non-existent foreign helicopters. Their owners put much at stake to avoid customs duties and official procedures, and although this is dangerous – literally, in terms of flight safety – to some the economy seems more important. Small wonder! For a Russian

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The elevation here ranges from one-two thousand metres to the twin peaks of the Elbrus, towering at 5642 metres above sea level.

buyer, a Robinson R44 (worth just over $400,000 in the U.S.) costs $720,000! Customs duties, compulsory additional equipment, registration fees, and other expenses add up almost double the initial price.

At least by today the process has been more or less streamlined by leading Russian helicopter clubs and official manufacturer representatives. The paperwork is no longer the nightmare it was for early helicopter enthusiasts, who had to break through all the administrative barriers themselves in the early nineties. With this out of the way, however, and with money at hand, the acquisition of a personal helicopter is no longer a problem.

Even the noose of airspace restrictions has been slackened. Nowadays a pilot only needs to notify the relevant authority. Before he would have to get approval of his flight, which could take from 1 to 3 days. The situation is still far from ideal, however, and Heliaction has fought through its share of struggles.

The club was established in 2009 and stands firm in the North Caucasus, specialising in pilot training, mountain flying, heliski services, and promoting private helicopter ownership in the region. It based within a half-hour ride by car from the Mineralnie Vody International Airport. Caucasian Mineral Waters served by this airport is in itself a major regional attraction, with many Russians and foreigners travelling there for the mineral baths and the unique water coming out of many springs.

“When mankind reached the sky, conquered its vastness – this was one of the most significant achievements,” Heliaction founder Alexander Davydov says. “Today almost anyone can learn to fly. This comes with perseverance and attention, but is entirely possible. It is one of the skills that changes your life completely, lets you feel something unique, open a new dimension in your mind.

The number of people who fall in love with the sky is growing each year and it is thanks to them that the Russian legislation is becoming less restrictive for private pilots. With

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the new Class G airspace private owners don’t need to obtain permissions for their flights. The number of trainees has really grown since 1 November 2010, when it was introduced, and the number of pilot-owners is also going up. This comes as no surprise, because flying in a helicopter, feeling its dynamics, seeing the world from this new perspective is something that cannot be described – it has to be be experienced.”

There are several major helicopter schools in Russia today, situated in Moscow, St. Petersburg, and various regions of the country. Only Heliaction, however, offers mountain-flying courses to start-up and experienced pilots. It is based at the foot of Beshtau, a picturesque five-domed mountain, one of the most beautiful in this awe-inspiring region.

After a short car ride from the airport you see a futuristic hangar with vividly painted heli-

The area around Caucasian Mineral Waters is rich in springs, rivers, and lakes.

The water here is said to be particularly healthy.

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copters parked inside. This is Heliaction, the home for mountain flying and heliski activities of this region. The range of models is diverse, starting from the classic Alouette III by Sud-Aviation, later integrated into Eurocopter. This machine has remained a favourite with mountain rescue services all over the world, including France, Switzerland, India, and Peru. The most popular helicopter at Heliaction is the Robinson R44, the same as elsewhere in Russia. This small, fun, and relatively straightforward machine wins hearts with a combination of lower prices, great capabilities, and ease of piloting and maintenance. Frank Robinson certainly made a breakthrough in the accessibility of flight, and Russia was quick to catch on.

A friendly, warm atmosphere is usually felt where pilots gather en masse, and the territory of this helicopter club is no exception.

Everything one may need in terms of accommodation and food is available, both of very high level for high flyers from abroad and the capitals, and catering to the tastes of pilot folk who are more into the flight manuals than Michelin guides. And after everyone is ready, it is time to remember the main reason for coming here – learning to fly.

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This region is good for hiking and horse-riding, as well as skiing and snowboarding.

The location of Heliaction is no coincidence: this area is considered one of the most advantageous for mountain flight training.

Small local peaks are for beginners, while the bigger ones, dominated by the monumental Elbrus (the highest peak in Europe at 5642 metres) that is within an hour’s flight distance. This is the place to learn the most complex skills while enjoying sights that are hard to beat. The school’s instructors have taken courses in Switzerland and New Zealand and are ready to share their knowledge with new generations of mountain pilots.

Heliaction is a relatively new school, yet it has already managed to earn the approval of many professionals. For example, Timothy Tucker, the Chief Instructor for the Robinson R22/R44 Safety Course and a 35 year aviation veteran, with over 18000 flight hours, noted the high level of Heliaction instructors during one of his visits to Russia. In the world of helicopter schools flying Robinsons, this is about as good a mark as can be achieved.

Besides flight training, the club also specialises in various sports activities, the most thrilling and attractive being heliski – the chance to freeride on virgin slopes of the Caucasus mountains on a snowboard or a pair of skis. The conditions differ significantly from those found elsewhere, and a large number of thrill-seekers come to visit the school from all over the world and to try the snow in these parts. And when you feel like doing something closer to the ground, Heliaction offers

Some of the most beautiful spots are accessible only from above, making a helicopter indispensable

hiking, motorbike and horse rides, and other things to keep you busy while you’re not accumulating flight hours or ploughing through snow at lightning speed.

“It’s hard to describe the feeling you get when you fly near the clouds, close to the cliffs and crevices of this amazing landscape,” says Alexander Davydov. “Sometimes you feel as if you can reach out and touch these walls, as ancient as the world itself, and it adds incredible depth to your emotions. Some people are less romantic

it’s true. I have a friend who lives in a London estate and whenever we meet and I start telling him about the beauties of flight in the left seat, he just won’t listen. He has a helipad near his house and uses a helicopter just like a taxi. This pragmatic approach lets you go places and make things happen, but trust me, to really feel absolute freedom, you have to learn to do it yourself. Thankfully it’s not something that hasn’t been done before by a lot of people. Give it a try, ❚ you won’t regret it.”

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