The Bombardier BD-700 Global Express is a long-range business jet designed to offer intercontinental capability, advanced avionics, and superior comfort for corporate, VIP, and government transport missions. Developed in the 1990s and entering service in 1999, the Global Express set a new benchmark in business aviation by combining high-speed cruise, ultra-long-range performance, and a luxurious cabin.

The Global 5000 is a shorter variant of the original Global Express, introduced in the early 2000s. It offers slightly reduced range and seating capacity while retaining much of the performance, avionics, and comfort of its larger sibling. Both models are part of Bombardier’s Global series, which continues to evolve with newer versions like the Global 6000, 6500, and 7500.

Key Specifications (Global Express / Global 5000)

• Crew: 2–3 (pilots + optional flight attendant).
• Capacity: 8–19 passengers.
• Length: Global Express: 30.3 m (99 ft 5 in). Global 5000: 29.5 m (96 ft 9 in).
  • Global Express: 30.3 m (99 ft 5 in).
  • Global 5000: 29.5 m (96 ft 9 in).
• Wingspan: 28.7 m (94 ft 2 in).
• Height: 7.7 m (25 ft 6 in).
• Max Takeoff Weight (MTOW): Global Express: ~45,132 kg (99,500 lb). Global 5000: ~41,957 kg (92,500 lb).
  • Global Express: ~45,132 kg (99,500 lb).
  • Global 5000: ~41,957 kg (92,500 lb).
• Engines: 2 × Rolls-Royce BR710-A2-20 turbofans.
• Maximum Speed: Mach 0.89 (~944 km/h or 586 mph).
• Range: Global Express: ~11,390 km (7,078 mi). Global 5000: ~9,630 km (5,982 mi).
  • Global Express: ~11,390 km (7,078 mi).
  • Global 5000: ~9,630 km (5,982 mi).
• Ceiling: 15,545 m (51,000 ft).

Notable Features

• Ultra-Long Range: Capable of nonstop intercontinental flights, such as New York to Tokyo or London to Singapore, with generous fuel reserves and high-speed cruise.
• Spacious Cabin: One of the largest cabins in the business jet market, configurable with multiple zones for work, rest, and entertainment, as well as a galley and lavatory.
• Advanced Avionics: Equipped with Honeywell Primus 2000XP or later Rockwell Collins Pro Line Fusion avionics (in later models), enabling reduced pilot workload and enhanced situational awareness.
• Exceptional Performance: High cruise speed and efficient aerodynamics allow the aircraft to fly above commercial traffic and avoid weather systems for smoother flights.
• Low-Cabin Altitude: Designed for passenger comfort with low cabin pressure, reduced noise, and vibration levels, especially on long-duration missions.

Operators & Usage

• Corporate and VIP Transport: Widely used by multinational companies, heads of state, and high-net-worth individuals for fast, comfortable, long-distance travel.
• Government and Military Use: Employed by air forces and special mission units around the world for command-and-control, surveillance, and electronic warfare configurations.
• Popular Operators: Includes governments of the United States, Germany, the UK, Canada, and military branches such as the Royal Air Force, U.S. Air Force, and Canadian Forces.
• Derivatives: The Global Express has served as the platform for aircraft like the Sentinel R1 (RAF), E-11A (USAF BACN), and Saab GlobalEye AEW&C aircraft.