Best Phoenix Aircraft: Gulfstream G-IVSP

Special Performance

The SP in the Gulfstream G-IVSP's name stands for "Special Performance", and it shows. The most notable upgrade from the standard G-IV is the two new Rolls-Royce Tay engines, which improves fuel burn and noise emission along with higher thrust output, enabling the Gulfstream G-IVSP to reach up to 580 mph.

The Gulfstream G-IVSP also includes a host of amenities. It comes with 110V outlets, an enclosed lavatory, leather seating, and linens.

This Gulfstream G-IVSP also includes loads in the way of dining. It has a full galley, a microwave oven, conventional oven, an espresso machine, glassware, an ice bin, and dishware.

This plane also makes no compromises for entertainment. It has a DVD player, CD player, Blu-Ray, video monitors, an iPod station, VCR, television and ground-based Wi-Fi

How's the Weather Up There?

NOAA uses a special G-IVSP. This jet has been repurposed for flying near tropical cyclones and has been modified for dropping "dropsondes" to measure windspeed, barometric pressure, humidity, and temperature. This data can be used to better track the storm's path of travel.