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.”

FMI: www.gulfstream.com