Overview
The C-20 Gulfstream III (launched by Grumman American in 1976, its development and production becoming the responsibility of Gulfstream American in 1978 after Grumman sold its interest) is a twin-engine, turbofan aircraft which fills the special airlift mission requirement for high-ranking government and Department of Defense officials. First flown on 2 December 1979, the C-20A was chosen in June 1983 as the replacement aircraft for the Lockheed C-140B Jetstar. The three original aircraft at Andrews AFB, MD were subsequently transferred to Ramstein Air Base, Germany, and all C-140Bs at both locations were phased out of the Air Force inventory. Currently, five C-20Bs are flying special air missions from Andrews. The primary differences between the C-20A and C-20B are the electrical systems and avionics packages.
The C-20G is a Gulfstream IV aircraft that can be configured for cargo or passenger operations, or a combination of the two. With passenger seats removed the aircraft may be modified to the following configurations: three pallets/no passengers, two pallets/eight passengers, and one pallet/fourteen passengers. With a full complement of seats installed, the aircraft is capable of accommodating up to twenty-six passengers and a crew of four. Other features include a hydraulically-operated cargo door installed on the starboard side of the aircraft to facilitate loading and unloading of cargo, a ball-roller cargo floor capable of accommodating palletized cargo, and a walk-in baggage area of 157 cubic feet, fully pressurized, which is accessible from the cabin.
First flown on 19 September 1985, the Gulfstream IV is a stretched version of the Gulfstream III with upgraded features including Rolls-Royce Tay in place of Spey engines, structural improvements, increased fuel capacity, and a modernized cockpit.
In 1992, Gulfstream delivered the C-20H (Gulfstream IV) to Andrews AFB. This aircraft is powered by two Rolls Royce Tay Mark 611-8 turbofan engines, which provide greater performance, greater range and are quieter than A and B models. The C-20H is also slightly longer than A and B models, and has an upgraded avionics package and interior.
The 89th Airlift Wing, Andrews AFB, MD, operates two H-model C-20s for worldwide special air missions.
Specifications
Official Designation | C-20H Gulfstream IV |
Primary Role | Staff transport |
National Origin | USA |
Original Contractor | Gulfstream American |
Wingspan | 77 feet, 10 inches (23.6m) |
Length | 88 feet, 4 inches (26.9m) |
Height at Tail | 24 feet, 6 inches (7.4m) |
Armament | None |
Engines | Two Rolls-Royce Tay Mark 611-8 turbofans |
Thrust | 13,850 pounds (61.61kN) per engine |
Cruise Speed | 522 mph (840km/h; Mach 0.70) |
Max Speed | 576 mph (929 km/h; Mach 0.85) |
Range | 4,220 nm (7,815km) |
Service Ceiling | 45,000 feet (13,715m) |
Operating Weight | 32,300 pounds (14,651kg) |
Max Payload | 12 passengers |
Max Takeoff Weight | 74,600 pounds (33,832kg) |
Basic Crew | Five |
Date Deployed | 1992 |
Total in Service | Two aircraft |