Gulfstream Celebrates GI, G550 Anniversaries
Gulfstream Aerospace is celebrating the 55th anniversary of the GI turboprop twin's first flight, which occurred on Aug. 14, 1958. The airplane laid the foundation for Gulfstream's business jets that the company delivers today. (Photo: Gulfstream Aerospace)
Gulfstream Aerospace is celebrating the 55th anniversary of the GI turboprop twin's first flight, which occurred on Aug. 14, 1958. The airplane laid the foundation for Gulfstream's business jets that the company delivers today. (Photo: Gulfstream Aerospace)

Gulfstream Aerospace celebrated two milestones yesterday, August 14–the 55th anniversary of the GI’s first flight in 1958 and the 10th anniversary of the G550’s FAA certification in 2003. Powered by a pair of Rolls-Royce Dart turboprops, the GI was the first aircraft specifically designed and built for business travel, the company noted. Gulfstream delivered 200 GIs before production ceased in 1969. They were used by several corporations for business travel, but also saw service with five U.S. government agencies and all branches of the U.S. armed forces. Some were even pressed into service as regional turboprops.