Bombardier Global Express vs Gulfstream G550
The Gulfstream V (1997-2003) and Global Express (1999+) are the two original ultra-long-range heavies — direct competitors that defined the segment. Both 6,000+ nm intercontinental flagships; both predecessors of the G550/Global 6000 respectively.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Bombardier Global Express | Gulfstream G550 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $6,500,000 – $15,000,000 | $5,000,000 – $34,950,000 |
| Category | Ultra-Long Range Jet | Large Cabin Jet |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 16 | 18 |
| Cruise Speed | 481 kts (891 km/h) | 488 kts (904 km/h) |
| Range | 5,900 nm (10,927 km) | 6,750 nm (12,501 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 51,000 ft (15,545 m) | 51,000 ft (15,545 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 93,500 lbs (42,412 kg) | 91,000 lbs (41,278 kg) |
| Useful Load | 24,000 lbs (10,886 kg) | 27,500 lbs (12,474 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 5,560.0 gal (21045 L) | 6,078.0 gal (23005 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 370.0 GPH (1400 L/h) | 380.0 GPH (1438 L/h) |
| TBO | 7,500 hrs | 7,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $1,500,000 | $1,300,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $1,100,000 | $900,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $6,000 | $5,500 |
| Engines | 2 x Turbofan | 2 x Turbofan |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateBombardier Global Express
Fuel$2,035/hr
Variable$6,000/hr
Annual Fixed$1,100,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$2,300,000/yr
Gulfstream G550
Fuel$2,090/hr
Variable$5,500/hr
Annual Fixed$900,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$2,000,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Bombardier Global Express or Gulfstream G550?
Bottom line: Choose the Gulfstream V for the iconic Gulfstream cabin, lower acquisition cost than G550 and proven 6,500+ nm range. Choose the Global Express for the larger cabin cross-section and three-zone Bombardier layout. Both have mandate-upgrade costs to factor in.
Pick the Global Express if…
Pick the G550 if…
- Budget matters — from $5,000,000 vs $6,500,000, you save ~$1,500,000.
- Lower operating cost — ~$5500/hr vs $6000/hr.
- More seats — 18 vs 16.
- Faster cruise — 488 kts vs 481 kts.
- Longer range — 6750 nm vs 5900 nm.
- Newer design — production from 2003 vs 1999.
- More inventory — 66 listings vs 37.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Bombardier Global Express or Gulfstream G550?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The Global Express cruises at 481 kts with 5,900 nm range.
The G550 cruises at 488 kts with 6,750 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Gulfstream G550: from $9,850,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Bombardier Global Express and Gulfstream G550?
Global Express engine: Grumman;General Electric BR710A2-20;Passport.
Seats: 16 vs 18.
Cruise: 481 vs 488 kts.
Range: 5900 vs 6750 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Global Express: about $6000/hr variable cost.
G550: about $5500/hr variable cost.
Variable cost includes fuel, reserves and overhaul accruals. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, annual inspection) add to the total.
Which has more seats and useful load?
Global Express: 16 seats / 24,000 lb useful load.
G550: 18 seats / 27,500 lb useful load.
Useful load = max gross weight minus empty weight; it determines how much fuel plus payload you can carry.
How does maintenance compare — TBO and overhaul cost?
Global Express: 7,500-hour TBO, overhaul ~$1,500,000.
G550: 7,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$1,300,000.
Reaching the time-between-overhaul (TBO) triggers a mandatory engine/airframe rebuild that affects resale value.
Disclaimer: All prices and cost estimates are from third-party sources for informational purposes only. Always obtain professional appraisal and inspection before purchase.
Prices updated daily · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data