As the fourth installation in the Gulfstream family line, the GIV offers new advancements that the former aircraft lacked. One of the most significant improvements is the change of engines from the Rolls-Royce Spey to the Rolls-Royce Tay Mk 611-8, used in later jets including the G300 and 400. The successful intercontinental-range business jet has been a prototype for later Gulfstream models.
Two Rolls-Royce Mk 611-8 engines provide 13,850 lbs of thrust each. Inspection interval is 8,000 hours. The Roll-Royce upgraded engine is responsible for 15% improved fuel consumption and decreased noise levels.
Another addition is the six-screen, color EFIS. The Honeywell SPZ-8000 avionics suite is found in the GIV’s cockpit. It includes Collins radios, FMS and dual Honeywell laser inertial reference systems. Triple laser INS, dual FMS and an air-to-ground telephone are options.
The GIV is the first in the Gulfstream family to employ Goodyear Aerospace’s brake-by-wire system and a Dowty fail-passive steer-by-wire system, making pilot maneuverability easier. The GIV’s takeoff weight is 2,000 additional pounds than its predecessor, at 72,300 pounds. Hot-and-high performance is also improved. The GIV has a high speed cruise of 480 ktas.
Compared to the GIII, the GIV has gained 4.5 feet in usable interior space but maintains Gulfstream’s famous stand-up cabin. The cabin has a length of 45.1 feet, width of 7.3 feet, and height of 6.1 feet. Up to 19 passengers can be accommodated in the GIV comfortably. Amenities include a large galley and full-sized lavatory, including a shower.
The GIV is an ideal midsize, intercontinental-range business jet. Gulfstream’s aircraft have evolved through new technologies and improvements, and the GIV is evidence of this. With a new design, upgraded engines and additional space, the GIV offers great performance in the intercontinental class of jets; so great that Gulfstream modeled most of their latest jets off of the GIV.