The Bombardier Global 8000 is the fastest private jet ever built with a top speed of 630mph, and during a test flight it briefly went supersonic. Only one has been delivered so far
Since the unfortunate demise of the Concorde programme in 2003, no supersonic airliner has graced our skies. Despite frequent claims of a successor to the iconic delta-winged aircraft, only military pilots have come close to breaking the sound barrier for over two decades.
That was until Canadian entrepreneur Patrick Dovigi took possession of his Bombardier Global 8000 – the fastest and most luxurious private jet ever constructed, boasting a rated top speed of 630mph.
During a test flight off the Californian coast late last year, the Global 8000 exceeded its recommended speed and breifly went supersonic, hitting Mach 1.02, just over 780mph.
The Global 8000 is not just speedy, but also versatile. Bombardier claims that the plane’s Advanced Smooth Flex Wing allows access to 30% more airports than its rivals – enabling the jet to land at notoriously challenging small airports such as Samedan, nestled in the Swiss Alps.
Currently, Dovigi’s Global 8000 is the sole example in service, and with the price tag of a fully equipped version exceeding $100million (£75m), it’s likely to remain a very rare sight as it darts between luxury resorts and major business hubs worldwide.
The Bombardier Global 8000 could complete the journey from London to New York in roughly five hours – cutting three hours off the time that trip would take on a commercial airliner. With a range of 8,000 nautical miles, this luxury jet can manage a round trip from London to Vancouver without needing to refuel.
At present, however, Dovigi’s flights are confined to Canadian airspace. Whilst the aircraft awaits commercial clearance from US and European aviation authorities, Bombardier anticipates both approvals will arrive in early 2026.
Hailing it as “the ultimate business aircraft” that “exceeds expectation in every way”, Bombardier’s chief executive Eric Martel claims the Global 8000 “is redefining the business aviation landscape with its innovative design, signature smooth ride, unmatched performance and a promise fulfilled to our customers”.
The jet’s incredible speed doesn’t just cut journey times – it also helps reduce jet lag. Meanwhile, the cabin pressure, equivalent to standing at 2,691ft altitude, places no more strain on passengers’ bodies than being atop a tall building, meaning travellers arrive feeling considerably more refreshed than those on standard commercial carriers.
Featuring four distinct living areas plus a dedicated crew rest zone, Global 8000 owners will have be likely to not only get up and stretch their legs, but also chill out and find some peace and quiet whilst airborne.
The Global 8000’s adaptable wings function as shock-absorbers, ironing out much of the buffeting caused by turbulence, whilst its maximum service ceiling – some 10,000ft higher than typical commercial flights – allows it to cruise above most adverse weather conditions.
Whilst just one Global 8000 is currently operational, proprietors of the roughly 2,000 earlier models, the Global 7500, may potentially upgrade their existing aircraft for the relatively modest sum of $3million (approximately £2.3m).
