History
The Gulfstream G200, which was originally known as the IAI Galaxy, is a twin-engine business jet. It was designed originally by Israel Aircraft Industries (IAI) and was produced for Gulfstream Aerospace from 1999 through 2011. The Galaxy was based on a new wider fuselage, attached to a strengthened Astra SPX wing with integrated winglets and modified high lift devices, powered by modern and more functional 5,700 lb (25.3 kN) thrust Pratt & Whitney Canada PW306 turbofans and a re-designed interior.
The main change from the Astra SPX wing was the introduction of Krueger flaps on the leading edges of the inboard section. These improvements recovered some of the field performance lost as a result of the Galaxy's higher wing loading. It used rubber de-ice boots on wing and horizontal stabilizer leading edges. The aircraft has seating configurations for 8 to 10 passengers. The G200 has a forward tilting stance when on the ground.
The Galaxy first flew on December 25th, 1997. By December, 1998, it had received certification from the US and Israeli aviation agencies. Deliveries began the following year. The Galaxy was renamed G200 after Gulfstream Aerospace acquired Galaxy Aerospace in June, 2001.
