The Gulfstream V arrived in 1997 with one clear objective: go farther than the GIV and make truly intercontinental business travel practical.

Gulfstream launched the program in 1992. The GV first flew in November 1995 and received full FAA certification in April 1997. Its 6,500-nm published range put it into a new class of business jet.

The timing was important. Bombardier was developing the Global Express, and Gulfstream needed a serious answer. The company enlarged the wing, increased fuel capacity and refined the proven Gulfstream cabin concept.

Then came the proof. In 1997, a GV flew nonstop from New York to Tokyo, covering 6,110 nm in 13 hours 22 minutes.

That was the mission Gulfstream had built it for.

• The original cockpit is old.

Early GVs used Honeywell SPZ-8500 avionics with CRT displays. Many aircraft have since received modern cockpit upgrades. When comparing two GVs, avionics history can be almost as important as the year on the registration.

• The aircraft has real age-related maintenance considerations.

FAA requirements include inspections of the horizontal stabilizer lower bonded skin assemblies and life-limit requirements for certain landing-gear components. Records and compliance status deserve close attention.

• The GV proved its range in the real world.

The 1997 New York to Tokyo flight covered 6,110 nm nonstop. The aircraft was designed for missions exactly like this.

Gulfstream GIV-SP for sale:
Range: Roughly 4,200 nm.
The GIV-SP shares the Gulfstream cabin philosophy but gives up substantial range. For shorter international missions, it can be the more economical choice. For very long sectors, the GV has a clear advantage.

Dassault Falcon 900EX for sale:
Range: 4,500 nm / Passengers: Up to 14 in typical configurations.
The Falcon 900EX is smaller and uses three engines. Its range is well below the GV, making it more relevant for shorter international missions.

Boeing BBJ for sale:
Range: Varies by model and configuration.
The BBJ belongs to another category. Its cabin can be dramatically larger, but the aircraft is much closer to a VIP airliner in size and operating concept. The GV is the more conventional choice for an owner who wants a purpose-built business jet.

Long international sectors are where the GV earns its place.

Eight passengers flying between North America and Europe are well within the type's intended mission. Push toward the upper end of the range and fuel planning becomes much more important.

There is also a practical point about airports. A heavily fueled GV can need a long runway, especially at hot-and-high locations. AOPA cites more than 9,000 ft for a heavily loaded Denver departure.

For shorter trips, the aircraft can carry more payload because it does not need its full fuel load.

The Gulfstream V is an old aircraft with a surprisingly modern mission.

Its combination of a large cabin, two BR710 engines, 51,000-ft ceiling and 6,500-nm published range is still useful for serious international travel.

The important part today is the individual aircraft. Avionics, engine programs, maintenance records, structural compliance and cabin condition can separate an excellent GV from an expensive project.

If you need eight passengers and roughly 6,000 nm of capability, the GV still deserves a place on the shortlist.

Looking for a Gulfstream V for Sale?
Give us the mission first:

• How many passengers?
• Which routes?
• How much range do you need?
• What year or configuration do you prefer?
• What are your requirements for engines, maintenance and avionics?
• Where will the aircraft be registered and operated?

We will search the open market and our off-market network and come back with aircraft that fit the requirement.