The Gulfstream G-III is the third generation of a very successful family line of private jets designed to be similar-to but better than the GII of which more than 250 models were sold to-date. It can fly 4,600 miles (4,000 nautical miles) at a speed of .84 Mach carrying 8 passengers or fly 4,140 miles (3,600 nautical miles) at the same speed with twice as many passengers.

The cabin is usually configured to carry 14 to 19 passengers, with an optional high-density layout for 21 with its spacious dimensions of 41.3 feet in length, 6.1 feet height and 7.3 feet width, totaling 1,345 cubic feet of volume. Standard amenities include a full-sized galley with a refrigerator, coffee, maker, and the usual food preparation equipment.

The use of two Rolls-Royce Spey Mark 511-8 engines, (also used on the GII) was after careful analysis of different 2 and 3 engine configurations, resulting in a decision that two engines would provide the desired performance with low operating costs.

Each engine produces 11,400 pounds of thrust each on takeoff, while flat-rated to 9,000 pounds in order to meet FAR part 36 noise requirements. In the case of one engine’s failure, the remaining engine will automatically increase to full power.

At sea level in standard conditions, the G-III can take off in 5,100 feet, while at an altitude of 5,000 feet and a temperature of 77 ˚ F, it needs 7,175 feet. It can climb directly to 43,000 feet, or to its maximum certified flight ceiling of 45,000 feet (reachable even with maximum takeoff weight of 68,900 pounds). Long-range cruise speeds of 442 knots (.84 Mach) can be reached at 45,000 feet, and a high-speed cruise of 488 knots (.88 Mach) at 39,000 feet.

With maximum fuel and reserves, the G-III has a maximum range of 5,070 miles (4,410 nautical miles), while at top cruise speed, it can fly 3,330 miles (2,900 nautical miles) nonstop. Its cabin is rated to 9.5 psi to maintain a sea-level cabin to an altitude of 22,100 feet.

In addition to great performance capabilities it also is a very reliable jet using at least one backup system for its critical systems. As an extra measure there are 4 fuel system boost pumps are used even though only one is needed when flying at the highest certified altitude.

Performance capabilities can be attributed to its new wing design with a 10% greater span than the wings of the GIIs, and achieving significantly better range with the Whitcomb winglets used to reduce fuel burn.

A completely new nose design created a redesigned cockpit 3 feet longer, providing enough space for a third pilot for the longer eight hour trips.

Pilots also appreciate the new Dual Sperry ED-800 electronic flight instrumentation system coupled with a Sperry Primus 800 multifunctional display and a four-screen EFIS dominating the flight deck, in addition to the provided extra space. Standard equipment includes 3 Honeywell laser gyros (which are lighter and more reliable than mechanical gyros), a Sperry SPZ800 flight director system, Global GNS 1000 FMS, a Sperry Primus 800 color weather radar, as well as all required communication and situation awareness equipment.

In summary the G-III is a highly reliable, long-range private jet offering a very large (1,345 cubic foot) cabin combined with high performance standards needed to compete in today’s private jet market. Gulfstream jets get better as time goes on as evidenced by the G-III.