Gulfstream G550 vs Bombardier Global Express
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 | Gulfstream G550 | Bombardier Global Express |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $5,000,000 – $34,950,000 | $6,500,000 – $15,000,000 |
| Category | Large Cabin Jet | Ultra-Long Range Jet |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 18 | 16 |
| Cruise Speed | 488 kts (904 km/h) | 481 kts (891 km/h) |
| Range | 6,750 nm (12,501 km) | 5,900 nm (10,927 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 51,000 ft (15,545 m) | 51,000 ft (15,545 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 91,000 lbs (41,278 kg) | 93,500 lbs (42,412 kg) |
| Useful Load | 27,500 lbs (12,474 kg) | 24,000 lbs (10,886 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 6,078.0 gal (23005 L) | 5,560.0 gal (21045 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 380.0 GPH (1438 L/h) | 370.0 GPH (1400 L/h) |
| TBO | 7,000 hrs | 7,500 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $1,300,000 | $1,500,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $900,000 | $1,100,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $5,500 | $6,000 |
| Engines | 2 x Turbofan | 2 x Turbofan |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateGulfstream G550
Fuel$2,090/hr
Variable$5,500/hr
Annual Fixed$900,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$2,000,000/yr
Bombardier Global Express
Fuel$2,035/hr
Variable$6,000/hr
Annual Fixed$1,100,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$2,300,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Gulfstream G550 or Bombardier Global Express?
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 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.
Pick the Global Express if…
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Gulfstream G550 or Bombardier Global Express?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The G550 cruises at 488 kts with 6,750 nm range.
The Global Express cruises at 481 kts with 5,900 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Bombardier Global Express: from $10,950,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Gulfstream G550 and Bombardier Global Express?
Global Express engine: Grumman;General Electric BR710A2-20;Passport.
Seats: 18 vs 16.
Cruise: 488 vs 481 kts.
Range: 6750 vs 5900 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
G550: about $5500/hr variable cost.
Global Express: about $6000/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?
G550: 18 seats / 27,500 lb useful load.
Global Express: 16 seats / 24,000 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?
G550: 7,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$1,300,000.
Global Express: 7,500-hour TBO, overhaul ~$1,500,000.
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