G500 vs G550
G500 and G550 are closely matched, each topping 1 of 7 metrics.
Put the Gulfstream Aerospace G500 (introduced 2018) 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 range, where the G550 has the advantage. Below we compare them spec by spec, then break down which aircraft suits which mission.
6 more specs per aircraft — ceiling, climb, cabin, dimensions and more — are free with an account.
G500 vs G550: the key differences
- The G550 delivers 30% more range (G500: 5,200 nm; G550: 6,750 nm).
- The G500 and G550 are evenly matched on cruise speed, both at 488 kt.
- The G500 and G550 are evenly matched on passenger capacity, both at 19 seats.
- The G500 is the newer design (introduced 2018 versus 2003 for the G550), a gap of 15 years that usually shows up in avionics, cabin systems and fuel burn.
- The G500 is the larger aircraft by maximum takeoff weight (91,400 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 G500, at 5,200 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 G500's range, the G550's extra capability is range you pay to carry but rarely use.
Which should you choose?
Choose the G550 when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the G500 when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the G500 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.
More comparisons
G500 vs G550: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the G500 or the G550?
The G550 has the longer published range — 6,750 nm versus 5,200 nm for the G500.
Which is newer, the G500 or the G550?
The G500 is the newer design, introduced in 2018 versus 2003 for the G550.
Is the G500 or the G550 the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the G500 is the larger aircraft — 91,400 lbs versus 91,000 lbs for the G550.
Should I buy the G500 or the G550?
Choose the G550 when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the G500 when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the G500 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 G500 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.