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Gulfstream G550

Gulfstream GIV, G450, GV and G550 Operators Eliminate Scheduled Battery Maintenance, Including Deep Cycling and Regular Capacity Checks with New Lithium Upgrade

September 9, 2026

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101 Aviation receives FAA STC approval for True Blue Power on-condition lithium-ion batteries on Gulfstream aircraft, with installation possible in as little as half a day

MONTGOMERY, Texas — 101 Aviation, together with True Blue Power and Aloft AeroArchitects today announced FAA approval of a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for True Blue Power lithium-ion main ship batteries on Gulfstream GIV, G450, GV and G550 aircraft. This upgrade brings proven lithium battery technology to one of the industry's most respected, high-performance aircraft platforms.

Two True Blue Power Gen5 TB50 (50 amp-hour) Lithium-ion Aircraft Batteries deliver APU start and avionics and backup power to the GIV, G450, GV and G550. Weighing 44.3 pounds per battery, the TB50 is 50% lighter and is a near plug-and-play replacement for existing lead-acid and nickel-cadmium (NiCad) batteries.

“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,” said Mike McClain, President of 101 Aviation. “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. This delivers significant advancements in reliability, performance, and lifecycle cost with minimal downtime.”

The TB50 is an on-condition battery that eliminates scheduled maintenance, unlike the existing lead-acid and NiCad batteries that require deep cycling and regular capacity checks. All True Blue Power Gen5 batteries feature integrated Battery Management System (BMS) which continuously monitors the battery’s cell voltage, current and temperature to maximize performance and longevity. Additionally, a built-in heater eliminates the need to remove the battery from the aircraft in extreme low-temperature conditions.

Battery Technology by Comparison

Technology Capacity Weight Voltage Output Useful Life Maintenance
True Blue Power TB50 Lithium-ion Battery 50 amp-hour 44.3 lbs. 26.4 VDC 8 years (average) On-condition
Lead-acid 42 amp-hour 86.0 lbs. 24 VDC 1–2 years Annual
Nickel-cadmium 44 amp-hour 96.0 lbs. 24 VDC 2–4 years 6–12 months

The 101 Aviation battery upgrade is backed by a four-year warranty and True Blue Power's superior battery technology that has logged over 13 million flight hours with zero in-flight failures. The certified batteries are installed on more than 5,000 aircraft worldwide and are now available for Gulfstream GIV, G450, GV and G550 aircraft. Operators can arrange installation by contacting Steve Lunde, Western Vice President of Sales for 101 Aviation, at 214-755-5698, or John Trull, Eastern Vice President of Sales for 101 Aviation at 828-545-3074, or visiting 101aviation.aero. For more information about True Blue Power lithium-ion aircraft batteries, please contact Van Winter, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing for True Blue Power at 316-630-0101 or visit truebluepower.com.

About 101 Aviation

101 Aviation was founded by aviation industry veterans with more 200 years of combined experience to bring proven True Blue Power solutions to the business jet market. The company identifies failure-prone aircraft systems and develops FAA-certified (STC) replacement solutions. Current and upcoming programs include:

  • Main ship Li-ion batteries: STC replacements for legacy Lead Acid and NiCad batteries on Bombardier Challenger, Gulfstream, Global, and Embraer.
  • Emergency Battery Power Systems: STC program for True Blue Power battery-supported emergency lighting and power supplies across the business jet market.
  • Frequency Converters: Distributor of True Blue Power frequency converters, with an initial focus on Gulfstream aircraft and additional platforms planned.
  • Flight Control Systems Support: Identifying and developing replacement flight control system boards for candidate private and commercial jets.
About True Blue Power

True Blue Power specializes in the design and manufacturing of electrical power solutions for the global aerospace industry. This includes USB and wireless chargers, power conversion products, emergency battery power supplies, and advanced lithium-ion batteries. Select products feature proprietary lithium-ion battery technology, which offers stable chemistry, faster charging, consistent output, excellent cycle life and lower total cost of ownership. This translates into smaller, lighter products that are less than half the size and weight of existing battery solutions. True Blue Power supports business, commercial, defense, special mission, advanced air mobility and electric aircraft. For additional information, please visit truebluepowerusa.com.

About Aloft AeroArchitects

ALOFT AeroArchitects is a leading aerospace engineering, certification, maintenance, and aircraft modification company providing innovative solutions to commercial, business, VIP, government, and special-mission aviation customers worldwide. With more than 50 years of aviation expertise, ALOFT combines in-house engineering and FAA Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) capabilities with aircraft systems manufacturing, auxiliary fuel systems, avionics integration, VVIP interior completions, maintenance, and modification services. Its integrated capabilities allow ALOFT to design, manufacture, install, and certify complex aircraft solutions under one organization, helping customers reduce certification risk, streamline project execution, and accelerate the introduction of new technologies and aircraft modifications into service. For additional information, please visit aloftaeroarchitects.com.