Second Specialized G550 Ordered By NOAA The National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) just announced it has ordered a second Gulfstream G550. This will go along with the previously announced G550 that is expected to replace the current Gulfstream IV-SP that has been in service with NOAA since 1996. The first aircraft was ordered in 2019 and will be delivered to NOAA in 2025. The second aircraft is expected to join the NOAA fleet in 2028. These new aircraft will work alongside the low-level flying WP-3D Orion hurricane hunters to gain an overall picture of weather systems.
WP-3D Orion hurricane hunters enter into hurricanes and storms while the Gulfstream IV-SP fly around and above the systems at high-altitude collecting upper-level data. The G550s will carry out the same tasks. "The acquisition of these highly capable aircraft is a major step forward in the recapitalization of NOAA’s aircraft fleet, which forecasters, researchers and decision-makers depend on for life-saving information," said Vice Adm. (select) Nancy Hann, director of the NOAA Commissioned Officer Corps and NOAA Marine and Aviation Operations.
When aircraft data are available, hurricane track and intensity forecasts are improved significantly. Longer lead-time for tropical cyclone forecasts are imperative as coastal populations and infrastructure continue to grow, evacuation decision times increase and climate change raises hurricane intensity, rainfall and storm surges. The G550s will be based at the NOAA Aircraft Operations Center in Lakeland, Florida. NOAA announced that it is exercising a $106 million contract option, resulting in the second aircraft order. For more information: NOAA/National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 1401 Constitution Avenue NW, Room 5128 Washington, DC 20230 www.noaa.gov ***
