Gulfstream GIV vs Gulfstream G550

The Gulfstream IV and Gulfstream V are predecessor and successor in the Gulfstream long- range lineage — the GIV (1985-2003) is the ~4,200 nm intercontinental large-cabin heavy; the GV (1997-2003) is the ultra-long-range ~6,500 nm flagship that defined the segment.

Live Market Snapshot

Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · refreshed daily

Gulfstream GIV
For sale now
63
Listed on 2+ marketplaces
23
Source marketplaces
12
Model years available
1988–2005
Gulfstream G550
For sale now
56
Listed on 2+ marketplaces
24
Source marketplaces
11
Model years available
1997–2020

Live data from AeroGurus, aggregated daily across the used-aircraft market. Figures are current asking prices, not appraisals — confirm with a pre-buy inspection.

Safety Record

Absolute counts scale with fleet size — the most-produced types log more events without being less safe. Compare the % fatal.

NTSB (1982–now)Gulfstream GIVGulfstream G550
All events9
Serious0
Fatal2
Fatalities12
% Fatal22%

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Gulfstream GIV Gulfstream G550
Gulfstream GIV
View 56 listings →
Median $4,495,000
Gulfstream G550
View 52 listings →
Median $22,400,000
Price Range $1,534,250 – $5,424,250 $11,105,000 – $33,695,000
Category Large Cabin Jet Large Cabin Jet
Model Specifications
Seats 14 18
Cruise Speed 488 kts (904 km/h) 488 kts (904 km/h)
Range 4,220 nm (7,815 km) 6,750 nm (12,501 km)
Service Ceiling 51,000 ft (15,545 m)
Max Gross Weight 73,200 lbs (33,204 kg) 91,000 lbs (41,278 kg)
Useful Load 27,500 lbs (12,474 kg)
Fuel Capacity 6,078.0 gal (23005 L)
Fuel Burn 380.0 GPH (1438 L/h)
TBO 7,000 hrs
Overhaul Cost $1,300,000
Annual Fixed $900,000
Hourly Variable $5,500
Engines 2 x Turbofan

Cost of Ownership

Estimate

Gulfstream GIV

Gulfstream G550

Fuel$2,090/hr
Variable$5,500/hr
Annual Fixed$900,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr) $2,000,000/yr

Which Should You Buy: Gulfstream GIV or Gulfstream G550?

Bottom line: Choose the GV for genuine intercontinental nonstop range and the modern G550 lineage. Choose the GIV for excellent transatlantic capability at materially lower acquisition cost — the classic large-cabin Gulfstream.

Pick the GIV if…

  • Budget matters — from $1,534,250 vs $11,105,000, you save ~$9,570,750.
  • More inventory — 56 listings vs 52.

Pick the G550 if…

  • More seats — 18 vs 14.
  • Longer range — 6750 nm vs 4220 nm.
  • Newer design — production from 2003 vs 1985.

Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, Gulfstream GIV or Gulfstream G550?
It depends on your mission and budget. The GIV cruises at 488 kts with 4,220 nm range. The G550 cruises at 488 kts with 6,750 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Gulfstream GIV and Gulfstream G550?
Seats: 14 vs 18. Cruise: 488 vs 488 kts. Range: 4220 vs 6750 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
G550: about $5500/hr variable cost. Variable cost includes fuel, reserves and overhaul accruals. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, annual inspection) add to the total.
Which has more seats and useful load?
GIV: 14 seats. G550: 18 seats / 27,500 lb useful load. Useful load = max gross weight minus empty weight; it determines how much fuel plus payload you can carry.
How does maintenance compare — TBO and overhaul cost?
G550: 7,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$1,300,000. Reaching the time-between-overhaul (TBO) triggers a mandatory engine/airframe rebuild that affects resale value.
Disclaimer: All prices and cost estimates are from third-party sources for informational purposes only. Always obtain professional appraisal and inspection before purchase.
Prices updated daily · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data