Gulfstream Aerospace has signed a letter of intent with Safe Flight Instrument Corporation to install Safe Flight’s Enhanced AutoPower automatic throttle systems in the large-cabin, mid-range Gulfstream G200 business jet.

Safe Flight’s airspeed manage-ment system will be available to G200 owners for purchase following Gulfstream’s receipt of a supplemental type certificate from the FAA.

This certification is expected to be granted by the end of the second quarter of 2004.

Gulfstream will begin the G200 auto-throttle flight test programme, which will require 10 to 25 flight hours, early next year.

Many G200 owners and operators have already requested an auto-throttle system as a retrofit, according to the president of Gulfstream Bryan Moss.

“By incorporating the AutoPower system, G200 owners will realise improved fuel efficiency, reduced pilot workload and increased value of their aircraft,” said Moss.