GKN Aerospace has been selected as a supplier on Gulfstream’s new G800 and G400 business jets.

GKN is using its capability in design and manufacture of business jet empennages and aerostructures on the advanced aircraft. The rudder and elevators from the empennage, in addition to the floorboards, will all feature the latest thermoplastic technology. GKN also produces the metal bonded fuselage panels for the body of the new G800 aircraft, as well as the aluminium machined wing skins for the G400.

A team of experts from GKN has joined the Gulfstream engineering team in the design process. Production will ultimately take place in facilities in Papendrecht and Hoogeveen in the Netherlands, Chihuahua in Mexico, and Wellington in the US.

This agreement is a continuation of the long-term business relationship between Gulfstream and GKN. GKN’s Fokker business began participating in Gulfstream’s successful business jet programmes in 1993. Over that time, GKN Aerospace has built a leading position in business jet empennages as proven in the design and manufacture of empennages for many Gulfstream large and ultra-large cabin aircraft, as well as for other business jets customers.

GKN’s current involvement in Gulfstream business jets include the empennage on G650 and G700, fuselage panels on G650 and G700, floorboards on G650 and G700, rudder on G500 and G600 and wing skins on G500 and G600.

John Pritchard, president civil airframe of GKN Aerospace, explained: “We are excited to be selected again as a key supplier on Gulfstream’s next generation of business jets and we truly value this partnership of almost 30 years. Our advanced lightweight thermoplastic technology offers a sustainable solution for aircraft structural components. Together with Gulfstream, we look forward to continuing to shape the future of flight.”

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