G550 Gulfstream: Price, Interior, and Range

Some of us want the best of the best, and this is especially true for those in the private jet industry. If that’s your goal, Gulfstream delivers tenfold. There’s a reason (or plenty) why 53% of survey respondents chose the Gulfstream G650 as their top aircraft of choice. Of course, the Gulfstream’s earlier G550 model offers similar luxury and opulence. 

The G550 Gulfstream is a plane for those who want to fly first class. It comes with a higher price tag, but you’ll get some of the best features and amenities in return. In fact, such quality construction and care might end up saving you money in repairs down the line. 

But what’s the Gulfstream G550 seating capacity, and how much does it cost to buy or charter one? We’ll answer all your burning questions about Gulfstream G550 maintenance, costs, features, overall Gulfstream interiors, and more. 

Ready to fly high with a Gulfstream G550? Here’s everything you need to know!

What type of plane is a Gulfstream G550?

The Gulfstream G550 is a business jet aircraft. The aircraft is renowned for its simultaneous speed, size, and flexibility. At peak capacity, the plane can fly up to 6,750 nautical miles—a one-way trip from Tokyo to Florida. 

You’ll see an optimized cabin space with a slightly shifted entry door, as well as a seventh pair of windows. As for avionics, the deck showcases Honeywell Primus Epic avionics and a head-up guidance system that is ideal for seeing through misty fog and storms. 

When it comes to aircraft comparisons, the Gulfstream G550 is competitive with two other reputable jets: 

• Bombardier Global 6000
• Dassault Falcon 7X

Our take? The Bombardier Global 6000 is impressive, but you’ll pay much more in operating costs for less range. As for the Dassault Falcon? The Gulfstream boasts better fuel optimization (more on that later). 

How many passengers can a Gulfstream G550 have?

Are you looking to travel with a large extended family? Or perhaps you’d like to impress a new client and their executives with a quick weekend trip to seal a new business deal. The Gulfstream G550 seating capacity is eight, but you’ll all have plenty of space to stretch out in its ultra-long cabin. 

The passenger cabin has these impressive dimensions: 

• Six feet tall
• Seven feet wide
• 50 feet long

Now, let’s talk dollars. We’ll shortly get into the price ranges for the  Gulfstream G550, including used and new pricing for your reference.

Gulfstream G550 Costs to Own & Operate

So, you must be wondering how much a Gulfstream G550 acquisition, fractional share, or private jet charter will set you back. If you’re in the market for ownership, you’ll also need to consider fuel efficiency and operating costs. 

Let’s break it down. A brand new Gulfstream G550 might not be attainable for the average private jet enthusiast. You’re looking at a minimum of $30 million, with new models surpassing the $40-50 million range. As for brand new? Try $60 million. 

How much does a used Gulfstream G550 cost?

Controller.com has a handful of Gulfstream G550 listings. The list price isn’t usually available, with sellers preferring to share that information over the phone instead. 

But research shows average used list prices for the Gulfstream G550 range between $18 million to $31 million. Models from 2012-2013 will be more expensive than the 2005-2006 models. 

A used Gulfstream G550 list price depends on many factors, like aircraft maintenance, engine hours, exterior aesthetics like paint and chips, and interior state and refurbishment. 

Now, what are we looking at per hour? 

Gulfstream G550 cost per hour

Every aircraft has variable costs per hour. The Gulfstream G550 will run you between $3,500 – $4,000 per flight hour, which considers the following variable costs:

• Fuel
• Maintenance and mechanic labor
• Parts
• APU and engine reserves
• Avionics expenses

On top of that, you’re looking at annual fixed costs. Here’s an estimate: 

• Crew salaries and training: $550,000 – $600,000
• Maintenance director salary and training: $200,000-$210,000
• Hull and liability insurance: $75,000- $80,000
• Hangar space: $100,000 – $110,000
• Cockpit costs (including flight planning, mapping, databases, etc.): $80,000 – $85,000
• Total fixed annual costs: $1,000,000 – $1,100,000

How about charters? If we look at some of the best private jet charter companies, they don’t list prices. However, access to Gulfstream models will run you higher than average ($8,000/hour minimum). 

How far can a Gulfstream G550 fly?

When you’re shelling out the big bucks, performance is everything. But the Gulfstream G550 impresses with its superb speed, flexibility, and mileage. You can fly a whopping 12 hours, or 6,750 nautical miles in one trip (as mentioned above, the distance between Japan and Florida). And–with a quick refueling stop–you can jetset around the world!

Speaking of fuel, how does the Gulfstream G550 fare on efficiency?

Gulfstream G550 fuel consumption

Every hour, a Gulfstream G550 burns between 350- 400 gallons of fuel, costing you a bit over $2,000 per hour ($5.00/gallon). This rate isn’t shockingly high or low, considering these private jet fuel consumption figures: 

• Bombardier Global 6000: 470 gallons
• Dassault Falcon 7X: 318 gallons
• Embraer Lineage 1000: 626 gallons
• Cessna Citation X: 336 gallons
• Mitsubishi Diamond 1A: 207 gallons

Gulfstream G550 interior features

Remember when we mentioned the Gulfstream G550’s substantial cabin space and passenger capacity? Let’s dive into the arrangement of its beautiful jet interior. 

There are storage areas, gourmet galleys, baggage nooks, and executive four-seat sections within that space. Every passenger can lay back and relax with reclinable seats and footrests. Between working or conversations with fellow passengers, you can take in a breathtaking view through one of the aircraft’s seven pairs of windows.

For the tired flyer, the Gulfstream G550 also features divans so you can enjoy a restful trip. Need more privacy? There’s enough space to install cabin dividers, and Southern Air Custom Interiors can certainly help you with that!

Gulfstream thought of everything with this aircraft’s sense of comfort: its clean air system spits out clean air every 2-3 minutes and the system uses air-ionizing technology to neutralize allergens and viruses. 

But the G550 certainly isn’t Gulfstream’s only aircraft. 

Other Gulfstream aircrafts

The engineers, designers, and businessmen behind Gulfstream have been producing aircraft since 1958. In all those years, they’ve released some of the most luxurious, reliable, and renowned business jets in the world. Here are a couple of other Gulfstream aircraft for you to consider: 

Gulfstream G650/650ER: These two models have an impressive range of 7,000-7,500 nautical miles, surpassing the Gulfstream G650 by 250-750 miles per trip. The aircraft also features a larger capacity, as well as gorgeous panoramic windows. 

Gulfstream G800: The G800 can fly an incredible 8,000 nautical miles nonstop. It also features a wing with ultimate aerodynamics, propelling you faster to your destination on less fuel. 

Gulfstream G700: This Gulfstream jet impresses thousands with its flexible cabin and Rolls-Royce engines. It has a range of 7,500 nautical miles and boasts a signature Symmetry Flight Deck. 

Gulfstream G280: A smaller, earlier aircraft, the G280 features a range of 3,600 nautical miles and a short takeoff time. 

Conclusion: Customize Your Gulfstream Interior Today

The Gulfstream G550 is a superb business jet that offers complete luxury, optimal performance, and unparalleled comfort for passengers. You can fly in style on a nonstop flight to Shanghai and enjoy countless jet amenities, whether you own or charter the plane. 

Of course, Gulfstream interior features are already second to few. But that doesn’t mean they never age—Gulfstream G550 interiors could always benefit from a tune-up, especially if you’re considering chartering out or getting your aircraft ready for sale. 
If you want top-notch technicians handling your investment’s interior, look no further than Southern Air Custom Interiors. Our skilled staff has decades of combined experience, and we’ve worked on countless Gulfstream models in the past. If you’re interested in learning more, contact us today for a consultation!