Global Express XRS completes maiden flight

Bombardier’s new-generation Global Express XRS business jet has successfully completed its maiden flight. During the four-hour, four-minute flight, the bizjet reached an altitude of 47,000 feet and a maximum true airspeed of 518 knots (596 mph). The jet, which can fly 6,150 nm nonstop, is expected to receive its Certificate of Airworthiness shortly. Customer deliveries will begin in the first quarter of 2006.