The Gulfstream Aerospace G-1159 Gulfstream IV (G-IV) is a long-range business jet that built upon the success of the Gulfstream III, bringing enhanced performance, greater range, and modern avionics to the high-end executive jet market. It was introduced in the mid-1980s and quickly became one of the most popular large business jets of its time.

🛩️ Overview:

• Role: Long-range business jet / executive transport
• Manufacturer: Gulfstream Aerospace
• First flight: September 19, 1985
• Introduced: 1987
• Total built: ~900 (including G-IV, G-IVSP, and military variants)
• Designation: G-1159A
• Developed from: Gulfstream III
• Succeeded by: Gulfstream V (G-V), then G550

🛠️ Key Specifications (G-IV / G-IVSP):

• Engines: 2 × Rolls-Royce Tay Mk 611-8 turbofans
• Thrust: 13,850 lbf (61.6 kN) each
• Wingspan: 77 ft 10 in (23.72 m)
• Length: 88 ft 4 in (26.9 m)
• Cruise speed: Mach 0.80 (528 knots / 978 km/h)
• Range: ~4,220 nautical miles (7,815 km)
• Service ceiling: 45,000 ft (13,716 m)
• Passengers: 14–19 (typical)
• Crew: 2–3 + cabin attendant

✨ Key Features:

• All-glass cockpit (in later versions), a major upgrade from analog systems
• Large, spacious cabin with customizable luxury interiors
• Highly reliable Rolls-Royce Tay engines—more efficient and quieter than earlier Spey engines
• Capable of transcontinental and transatlantic flights without refueling
• Pressurized, climate-controlled baggage compartment

🔁 Variants:

🔹 G-IV

• Original version with updated wing and fuselage from GIII
• Improved fuel capacity and engine performance

🔹 G-IVSP (Special Performance)

• Enhanced version with better payload-range performance, updated avionics, and optional HUD (head-up display)

🔹 G300 / G400

• Later commercial names for G-IV derivatives with slightly different equipment or shorter range

🔹 C-20G / C-20H / C-20F (U.S. Military)

• Gulfstream IV variants used for VIP transport and logistics by the U.S. Air Force, Navy, and Army

🛡️ Military & Government Use:

• Used by the U.S. military as the C-20F/G/H for VIP transport and cargo missions
• Employed by NASA, NOAA, and other agencies for airborne research and mission support
• Some militaries and governments around the world used the G-IV for diplomatic or head-of-state transport

🔥 Fun Facts:

• The G-IV was the first Gulfstream jet to feature an all-glass cockpit in its later production runs
• It was one of the most widely used large-cabin business jets in the world during the 1990s and early 2000s
• Its success laid the foundation for the G-V, G550, and the ultra-luxury G650 series

🏁 Legacy:

The Gulfstream IV proved that a business jet could offer intercontinental range, first-class comfort, and reliability all in one sleek package. It became a favorite among corporate leaders, celebrities, governments, and militaries for nearly three decades.

Many G-IVs are still flying today—some in charter fleets, some with private owners, and others converted for research or government service.