Simply Abu Dhabi XXVII

5 2 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I leading to Gulfstream becoming its own entity in 1978. General Dynamics bought Gulfstream in 1999, and in 2017 the brand continues to push into new sectors and markets; its presence at the Dubai Airshow in November this year reflects both the brand’s commitment to innovation, and the seemingly boundless growth potential of aviation in the Middle East. Thanks to their technological superiority, ability to reach high altitudes quickly and interior flexibility, Gulfstream airframes are ideal for special missions, and have served government customers with special mission aircraft since 1967. Today, aircraft are configured for head-of-state and VIP transport, airborne early warning, medical evacuation, high-altitude atmospheric research, and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance. Nearly 200 Gulfstream aircraft support governments in more than 35 countries around the world, including the US military. In addition, Gulfstream continues to maintain the largest company-owned product support network for business jets, with approximately 4,000 professionals. No other business jet manufacturer offers a wider range of services, enhancements, spares, support functions and technical publications than Gulfstream. “I often say that we have the best employees making the best products in business aviation,” says Burns. “We’re going to build you the best aeroplane and we’re going to stand behind it. That’s still what we believe today.”