Rolls-Royce, the global power systems company, has received type certification from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for its BR725 engine, which powers the world’s fastest civil aircraft, the Gulfstream G650 business jet.
The certification covers a thrust rating of 16,100lbf (71.6 kN) and follows certification from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) in June 2009. FAA certification completes airworthiness approvals by the two major international authorities and is the result of an intensive series of safety, endurance and performance tests.
The G650 flight test programme has been underway since 25 November 2009, with entry into service of the ultra-long-range business jet planned for 2012.
Dr. Michael Haidinger, President, Rolls-Royce Deutschland and Chief Operating Officer Corporate & Regional Engines Rolls-Royce, said: "This year has been full of highlights for the BR725 engine programme. We have obtained EASA certification, seen the engine take the G650 to the air for the first time and now the BR725 has also been certified by the US authority. At our Dahlewitz facility in Germany we have already assembled the first two production engines. I would like to thank both the airworthiness authorities for their professionalism and Gulfstream for its continued support throughout the certification process.”
The BR725 is the most advanced member of the BR700 engine series. Incorporation of latest technology has lead to improved performance, efficiency, fuel consumption, emissions and engine life. The engine enables the G650 to travel 7,000 nautical miles at Mach 0.85 and reach a maximum operating speed of Mach 0.925, making it the fastest civil aircraft. The aircraft can reach a ceiling of 51,000 feet, which allows it to avoid traffic and inclement weather.
