IATA GRSICAO G159

Gulfstream Aerospace G-159 Gulfstream I

Gulfstream

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Pioneer turboprop executive transport, Grumman's first business aircraft.

First flight

1958

Category

Regional turboprop

Seating

10–19 typical executive; up to 24 in commuter configuration

Range

4,500 km

Engines

Two Rolls-Royce Dart Mk 529 turboprops

Status

Retired

The Gulfstream I (G-159) was a twin-turboprop executive and utility transport aircraft developed by Grumman Aircraft Engineering Corporation, making its first flight in 1958. It was designed to offer jet-like performance and comfort using Rolls-Royce Dart turboprop engines, and it became one of the most successful business aircraft of its era. The aircraft entered service in 1959 and was widely adopted by corporations, government agencies, and military operators. Its spacious cabin and long range made it highly competitive in the executive transport market. A total of 200 aircraft were built before production ended in 1969. Gulfstream Aerospace (formerly Grumman American) later developed the stretched, twin-jet Gulfstream II as its successor. Some Gulfstream I airframes were converted to commuter airline use, designated Gulfstream I-C, with seating for up to 24 passengers. The type is largely retired from commercial service today.

Notable operators

Operated by various U.S. corporations, the U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, and several small commuter airlines in the Gulfstream I-C configuration.

Notable facts

›First flight occurred on August 14, 1958, at Bethpage, New York.
›Exactly 200 aircraft were built between 1958 and 1969.
›The Gulfstream I-C conversion added a stretched fuselage and additional windows for commuter airline use.
›It was Grumman's first purpose-built business/executive transport aircraft.
›The design directly led to the development of the twin-jet Gulfstream II, introduced in 1966.