The FAA has approved a supplemental type certificate covering True Blue Power lithium‑ion main ship batteries on the Gulfstream GIV, G450, GV and G550, developed jointly by 101 Aviation, True Blue Power and Aloft AeroArchitects.

Each aircraft takes two Gen5 TB50 batteries, rated at 50 amp‑hours, supplying APU start, avionics and backup power. At 44.3 pounds apiece, the TB50 is 50 per cent lighter than the lead‑acid and NiCad batteries it replaces, and is designed as a near plug‑and‑play fit. The battery is classed as on‑condition, removing the deep‑cycling and capacity checks scheduled maintenance requires, and carries an integrated battery management system that tracks cell voltage, current and temperature. A built‑in heater means the battery does not need to be removed from the aircraft in extreme low temperatures.

Mike McClain, president of 101 Aviation, says: “Our objective is to deliver the simplest battery upgrade possible while providing Gulfstream GIV, G450, GV and G550 operators with a solution that eliminates maintenance, reduces weight and offers a service life that far exceeds what they are accustomed to.”

The first installation is scheduled for the end of this month, with the upgrade completed in as little as half a day. It is backed by a four‑year warranty, and by a True Blue Power track record that spans more than 13 million flight hours without an in‑flight failure across over 5,000 aircraft worldwide. 101 Aviation, founded by industry veterans with a combined 200 years of experience, is separately developing STC replacement batteries for Bombardier Challenger, Global and Embraer aircraft, along with emergency battery power systems, frequency converters and flight control system boards.