Global 5500 vs G550
The G550 leads, topping 4 of 7 compared metrics.
Put the Bombardier Aviation Global 5500 (introduced 2019) beside the Gulfstream Aerospace G550 (introduced 2003) and the trade-offs sharpen fast. Both are business jets, which makes them natural cross-shopping rivals. The clearest separation between them is cabin capacity, where the G550 carries more passengers. undefined
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Global 5500 vs G550: the key differences
- The G550 delivers 18% more range (Global 5500: 5,700 nm; G550: 6,750 nm).
- The G550 delivers 3% more cruise speed (Global 5500: 476 kt; G550: 488 kt).
- The G550 delivers 19% more passenger capacity (Global 5500: 16 seats; G550: 19 seats).
- The Global 5500 is the newer design (introduced 2019 versus 2003 for the G550), a gap of 16 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 91,000 lbs), which typically buys more cabin and payload at the cost of higher trip economics.
Which mission suits which aircraft
The G550 is the stronger fit for nonstop ultra-long-haul routes — its 6,750 nm of range removes fuel stops on those legs. The Global 5500, at 5,700 nm, is better matched to long-haul and transatlantic missions, where lower trip cost counts for more than outright reach. If most of your flying sits inside the Global 5500's range, the G550's extra capability is range you pay to carry but rarely use.
Which should you choose?
On published specifications the G550 leads on both range and cabin capacity, so it suits operators who want maximum mission flexibility from a single airframe. The Global 5500 can still be the smarter buy on acquisition cost, operating economics, runway performance, or current availability — the factors that rarely show up in a spec sheet. Our acquisition advisory team can model both against your actual mission profile before you commit.
More comparisons
Global 5500 vs G550: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the Global 5500 or the G550?
The G550 has the longer published range — 6,750 nm versus 5,700 nm for the Global 5500.
Does the Global 5500 or G550 seat more passengers?
The G550 carries more passengers at maximum configuration — up to 19 seats, compared with 16 on the Global 5500.
Which is faster, the Global 5500 or the G550?
The G550 cruises faster, at 488 kt versus 476 kt for the Global 5500.
Which is newer, the Global 5500 or the G550?
The Global 5500 is the newer design, introduced in 2019 versus 2003 for the G550.
Is the Global 5500 or the G550 the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the Global 5500 is the larger aircraft — 99,500 lbs versus 91,000 lbs for the G550.
Should I buy the Global 5500 or the G550?
On published specifications the G550 leads on both range and cabin capacity, so it suits operators who want maximum mission flexibility from a single airframe. The Global 5500 can still be the smarter buy on acquisition cost, operating economics, runway performance, or current availability — the factors that rarely show up in a spec sheet. Our acquisition advisory team can model both against your actual mission profile before you commit.
Still weighing up the Global 5500 vs G550?
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.