Global 5500 vs G400
The Global 5500 leads, topping 4 of 7 compared metrics.
Put the Bombardier Aviation Global 5500 (introduced 2019) beside the Gulfstream Aerospace G400 (introduced 2023) and the trade-offs sharpen fast. Both are business jets, which makes them natural cross-shopping rivals. The clearest separation between them is range, where the Global 5500 has the advantage. Below we compare them spec by spec, then break down which aircraft suits which mission.
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Global 5500 vs G400: the key differences
- The Global 5500 delivers 36% more range (Global 5500: 5,700 nm; G400: 4,200 nm).
- The Global 5500 and G400 are evenly matched on cruise speed, both at 476 kt.
- The G400 delivers 19% more passenger capacity (Global 5500: 16 seats; G400: 19 seats).
- The G400 is the newer design (introduced 2023 versus 2019 for the Global 5500), a gap of 4 years that usually shows up in avionics, cabin systems and fuel burn.
- The Global 5500 is the larger aircraft by maximum takeoff weight (99,500 lbs versus 74,600 lbs), which typically buys more cabin and payload at the cost of higher trip economics.
Which mission suits which aircraft
Both aircraft are built for long-haul and transatlantic missions, so outright range rarely separates them — the call leans on cabin (the G400 seats more), trip economics and what is actually available on the market. Match the airframe to how you fly most weeks, not to the headline range figure.
Which should you choose?
Choose the Global 5500 when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the G400 when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the Global 5500 holds the cruise-speed edge. The right answer ultimately depends on acquisition cost, maintenance-program status, and what is actually available on the market — talk to our acquisition advisory team to pressure-test the choice against your missions and budget.
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Global 5500 vs G400: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the Global 5500 or the G400?
The Global 5500 has the longer published range — 5,700 nm versus 4,200 nm for the G400.
Does the Global 5500 or G400 seat more passengers?
The G400 carries more passengers at maximum configuration — up to 19 seats, compared with 16 on the Global 5500.
Which is newer, the Global 5500 or the G400?
The G400 is the newer design, introduced in 2023 versus 2019 for the Global 5500.
Is the Global 5500 or the G400 the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the Global 5500 is the larger aircraft — 99,500 lbs versus 74,600 lbs for the G400.
Should I buy the Global 5500 or the G400?
Choose the Global 5500 when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the G400 when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the Global 5500 holds the cruise-speed edge. The right answer ultimately depends on acquisition cost, maintenance-program status, and what is actually available on the market — talk to our acquisition advisory team to pressure-test the choice against your missions and budget.
Still weighing up the Global 5500 vs G400?
Specs only take you so far. Our advisors give an independent recommendation based on your mission, budget and how you actually fly — and represent your side through to purchase.