Company Continues Investing For The Future, Says New President
Larry Flynn
Gulfstream has been sustained through the three-year economic
downturn by international orders, and has continued to grow and
invest throughout the period. That was the message presented to the
media by new Gulfstream President Larry Flynn (pictured) as
the NBAA convention in Las Vegas got underway. Flynn became
president on Sept. 1, succeeding Joe Lombardo, who continues to
oversee Gulfstream and Jet Aviation as executive vice president of
Aerospace for General Dynamics, Gulfstream’s parent
company.
“Businesses that were once regional are now global,”
Flynn said. “And their leaders need long-range
transportation. They recognize Gulfstream as the leader in
technology, performance and product support; and that has
translated into strong sales.”
The company has an $18 billion backlog, which grew by more than
$400 million in the second quarter. The delivery window for most
products is an 18-24 month “sweet spot,” according to
Flynn. G650 orders extend into 2017. “Our focus at the moment
is to complete two certification programs, for the G650 and G280.
We’re on track to do that and deliver on time as
promised,” Flynn said. “We are also intently focused on
ensuring a smooth entry-into-service for both products and are
positioning people and resources accordingly.”
Gulfstream is on track for green deliveries of 80 large-cabin
models and 15-20 mid-cabin models. In addition, the company plans
to make green deliveries this year of 10 to 12 of its new G650
ultra-long-range jet. The Gulfstream Product Support organization
is expanding to keep pace with the fleet, with new facilities or
expansions accomplished or announced for Savannah; Westfield, MA,
Luton, England, Madrid, Singapore, and elsewhere. “We are
acutely aware that superior service and support sells airplanes,
and we will continue to devote all the resources necessary to lead
in this area,” said Flynn.
Gulfstream has more than 11,500 employees worldwide today.
Growth has come in all sectors of the company – especially
production, engineering and product support. International markets
are the key drivers behind that growth, Flynn said, noting that 70
percent of orders in the past year were from outside North
America.
“About a year ago we announced a $500 million, seven-year
facilities expansion program,” remarked Flynn. “We said
we would add 1,000 jobs over that period. Since then we have added
more than 1,300.”