Gulfstream V Achieves RVSM Approval.

Business Editors

SAVANNAH, Ga.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 10, 2000

First Ultra-Long Range Business Aircraft Authorized for Reduced

Vertical Separation Minimum Operations

More "Technology that Works" From Gulfstream

Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of General Dynamics (NYSE:GD), announced today that the Gulfstream V has become the world's first ultra-long range business aircraft to receive Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) approval. Authorization was granted December 17, 1999 by the Federal Aviation Administration under the auspices of the International Civil Aviation Organization.

With this endorsement, the Gulfstream V becomes the only aircraft in its class that can fly without altitude restrictions across the North Atlantic. Only aircraft granted RVSM approval may operate at altitudes from 31,000 - 39,000 feet in the North Atlantic track system and in the future, across Europe and the Pacific.

"The Gulfstream V program completed 1999 on a high note by achieving RVSM approval. It's another technology first for the Gulfstream V," said Pres Henne, Gulfsteam's senior vice president for programs. "To achieve RVSM authorization, we had to demonstrate that the Gulfstream V altimetry systems were extremely accurate and reliable. We have accomplished that."

RVSM reduces the vertical separation between aircraft flying in different directions from 2,000 feet to 1,000 feet within the track system altitudes. The major benefits from RVSM include the greater availability of more fuel-efficient altitudes and routes for lower-flying airliners and business aircraft, enhanced controller flexibility and an increased probability that a desired track or altitude will be available.

"While the Gulfstream V normally operates above these altitudes when flying the Atlantic, only the Gulfstream V in the ultra-long range class is approved to fly within the RVSM corridor without restrictions if needed," said Henne. "This is another excellent example of our commitment to provide `technology that works' for our customers."

The North Atlantic corridor is the first airspace to introduce RVSM and it will eventually include altitudes from 29,000 - 41,000 feet. The initial RVSM routes in the Pacific are scheduled to open in February 2000 and European airspace is expected to require RVSM between 29,000 - 41,000 feet by January 2002.

"Having the Gulfstream V approved for RVSM airspace is particularly important in Europe," said Henne. "Gulfstream V owners, operators and potential customers who either frequent Europe or are based there are particularly interested in having an aircraft that meets RVSM requirements."

The Gulfstream V is the world's first and most successful ultra-long range business aircraft. With 63 world and national records since its introduction into service in 1997, the Gulfstream V offers the most advanced technology available in business aircraft today. Capable of flying 6,500 nautical miles and at speeds up to Mach .885, the Gulfstream V's cockpit offers the most sophisticated avionics suite available with the largest displays. This year, the Gulfstream V will add to its technology leadership by offering the Enhanced Vision System (EVS) for increased safety in night and poor weather operations. EVS is the first such application of this technology in all of aviation and is exclusive to Gulfstream.

Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation is the leading designer, developer, manufacturer and marketer of the world's most technologically advanced intercontinental business jet aircraft. The company has produced approximately1,150 aircraft for customers around the world since 1958.

Gulfstream offers a full range of aircraft products and services to meet the aviation needs of its customers, including the Gulfstream IV-SP (R), the ultra-long range Gulfstream V(R), Gulfstream Shares(R), Gulfstream Financial Services, Gulfstream Lease(SM), Gulfstream Pre-Owned Aircraft Sales , Gulfstream Charter Services(R), Gulfstream Management Services(SM) and Gulfstream ServiceCare(R). The company employs more than 8,200 people at eight locations.

General Dynamics, which is headquartered in Falls Church, Va., has leading market positions in shipbuilding and marine systems, land and amphibious combat systems, information systems, and business aviation. The corporation employs approximately 44,000 people worldwide and has annualized sales of approximately $10 billion. More information about the company can be found at www.generaldynamics.com.