BOMBARDIER GLOBAL XRS / 6000

• Passengers 16

Originally launched as the XRS before being rebranded as the 6000 in 2011, this ultra-long-range jet is a much-improved version of the original Global Express with a faster cruise speed and longer range than its predecessor.

About the aircraft

• The Global Express XRS was released in 2005 as one of Bombardier’s largest aircraft. The rebranded Global 6000 was fitted with new avionics.
• The jet can sleep up to eight people or seat up to 16. There’s an extra seat in the enclosed lavatory, but it’s rarely used for charters.
• The flight-accessible baggage hold is big enough for 15 suitcases.
• The XRS has a maximum range of 6,905 miles (around 12 hours of flying time), meaning it can connect North and South America, Australia with the Middle East and Europe with Southeast Asia.

Purpose-built to meet the needs of even the most demanding travellers, the XRS/6000 has excellent short-field capabilities and offers space, privacy and luxury on board.

Interior design

The aircraft’s spacious cabin has plenty of space and ample legroom for up to 16 passengers. A typical configuration seating 14 people features two sets of club seats with conference tables, an aft lounge or bedroom, a full galley and an enclosed lavatory.

Below is an example of the maximum configuration for a Global Express XRS/6000.

Interesting facts to learn before you fly

• The Global Express XRS/6000 has one of the largest and longest seated areas found on a business jet.
• Its steep approach certification and formidable performance make it one of the largest business jets that can fly non-stop from Aspen to London City Airport.
• The ultra-long range aircraft can cross multiple time zones and continents.
• Enhanced soundproofing creates one of the quietest cabins in its class.
• Its 28 windows are enlarged to let more light into the cabin, increasing passengers’ vision range by up to 40%.

Technological features

Two Rolls-Royce BR710-A2-20 engines offer 14,750 lbs each of thrust, allowing for a maximum cruise speed of 924 km/h (Mach 0.89) and a long-range speed of up to 904 km/h. The XRS’s Honeywell Primus 2000XP avionics suite has better acoustical insulation than its predecessor, while the 6000’s Rockwell Collins ProLine Fusion system helps pilots manage, monitor and master flight automation.

An advanced wing design with winglets gives the aircraft an incredible combination of speed, range and short-field performance. In-flight entertainment is taken care of too, with some of the largest-in-class high definition TV monitors.

History

Bombardier announced the Global Express in 1991 and its maiden flight took place in 1996. The ultra-long-range business jet was designed to fly at high speeds between any two points on the globe with only one fuel stop. It was certified in Canada and the United States in 1998 and customer deliveries began in 1999.

Production of the XRS began in 2004, with its flexible wing design and best-in-class wing loading making for a comfortable ride even in turbulence. Bombardier rebranded the XRS as the 6000 in 2011 with upgraded avionics.

Manufacturer

Bombardier Aviation (formerly Bombardier Aerospace) manufactures business, commercial and specialised aircraft. The company began with the acquisition of several established aviation companies, starting with Canadair in 1986 and followed by Short Brothers in 1989, Learjet in 1990 and Boeing subsidiary De Havilland Aircraft of Canada in 1992.

Headquartered in Montreal, Canada, today Bombardier has over 60,000 employees and is a leading global manufacturer of aircraft and trains with sites in 25 countries.

Cost

A pre-owned Global Express XRS will set you back USD $12-22 million depending on the model year and customisations. A Global 6000 can cost up to $64 million.

Charter rates

Charter rates for the Bombardier Global Express XRS/6000 vary depending on several factors, including the length of your journey and the airports you’re flying into and out of.

Wet lease rates

ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, Insurance) wet lease rates for the Bombardier Global Express XRS/6000 depend on the age of the aircraft, length of the lease term, number of block hours being guaranteed and average cycle ratio.