As the global aerospace community descends on England for the Farnborough International Air Show in July, the rapidity of developments in the aviation sector continues unabated.
Over the past few years, new technologies have pushed the industry forward with advances in artificial intelligence, sustainable aviation fuel, electric and hybrid planes and Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOLs).
In June, a speed record on a journey between Montreal and Nice, France set the industry abuzz. Bombardier Inc.’s Global 8000 completed the journey in a little more than six hours. The record marks the milestone for a business jet, which was certified with a Mach 0.95 MMO, which is approximately 729 mph. The speed is the highest in civil aviation and the fastest business jet in history.
The Global 8000’s range reaches up to 8,000 nautical miles, but its cabin altitude is also noteworthy. According to Bombardier, “the specification that matters most to discerning operators is the cabin altitude at 2,691 feet at 41,000 feet cruise – the lowest figure in production business aviation.”
Cabin altitude is the artificial air pressure maintained inside an airplane cabin. It’s usually kept at 6,000 to 8,000 feet, even when cruising at 35,000 feet, and plays a crucial role in how airplanes keep passengers safe and comfortable at cruising heights. As airplanes climb higher in the atmosphere, they are exposed to thinner, less dense air. A cabin altitude of 8,000 feet is a safe, tested compromise that keeps people comfortable while not stressing the plane’s metal. Some newer planes have lowered cabin altitude to 6,000 feet.
“The Montreal-to-Nice FAI speed record is a well-timed reminder that the Global 8000 delivers on its core promise: the highest speed, the longest range, and the best cabin environment in production business aviation,’’ Bombardier said in a press release. “For buyers making long-horizon decisions in 2026, it is the benchmark against which everything else is measured.”
Alpha Metalcraft Group plays an important role in commercial transports and business jets by providing critical products.
AMG’s leading-edge guards, manufactured via electroforming, are installed in the engines on Boeing’s 777x, which completed its maiden flight in 2020. It is expected to be introduced into commercial service in 2027.
Boeing’s 777x includes GE9X engines from GE Aerospace, which is the world’s largest and most powerful commercial aircraft engine. The GE9X was designed exclusively for the Boeing 777X family and is the most fuel-efficient engine in its class.
AMG also manufactures high-pressure and high-temperature duct products with its processes in deep drawing and spinning. One of the most complex systems is the nacelle, which links the engine to the airplane. It comprises an air inlet, engine cowl, thrust reverser and exhaust system. Nacelles perform multiple functions in harsh environments but also must be as light as possible.
Team members from AMG will attend Farnborough, which is held biennially at Farnborough Airport in Hampshire. The show brings together aviation professionals, defense contractors and government officials from around the world. The show generates over $100 billion in aerospace and engine orders and includes exhibitions and aerial displays throughout the week.