FAA Clears Lithium Battery for Gulfstream Jets

An FAA-approved supplemental type certificate now clears operators of Gulfstream IV, G450, V, and G550 jets to swap out legacy main ship batteries for True Blue Power lithium-ion units, under a project led by 101 Aviation in partnership with True Blue and Aloft AeroArchitects.

According to 101 Aviation president Mike McClain, the STC covers two True Blue Gen5 TB50 lithium-ion batteries per aircraft, each rated at 50 amp-hours and weighing 44.3 pounds—50% lighter than the lead-acid and nickel-cadmium batteries they replace. Unlike those legacy batteries, the TB50 is maintained on condition, removing the need for scheduled deep cycling or capacity testing, and includes a built-in battery management system and heater for cold-weather use.

“Our objective is to deliver the simplest battery upgrade possible while providing Gulfstream IV, G450, V, and G550 operators with a solution that eliminates maintenance, reduces weight, and offers a service life that far exceeds what they are accustomed to,” McClain said. “The first Gulfstream TB50 battery installation is scheduled for the end of this month, and the upgrade can be completed in as little as half a day.”

That installation, which carries a four-year warranty, will be on a G450. True Blue’s lithium-ion batteries are currently installed on more than 5,000 aircraft.