Gulfstream's new jet gets special rules for its high-speed safety system

The US aviation regulator has created new safety standards for a specific high-speed protection system on Gulfstream's new GVII-G400 airplane. This means the jet can use a novel safety feature that existing rules did not cover.

Aircraft manufacturers often innovate faster than regulators can write rules. When a new technology appears, regulators must either block it or create special conditions. This document shows the US aviation regulator is willing to adapt its rules for new safety systems, rather than forcing manufacturers to stick to older designs. This allows for new types of aircraft features to be approved.