Craft Retires Gulfstream Jets in Miami
Craft (Miami Opa-Locka) has officially ceased all Gulfstream Aerospace commercial operations following the retirement of its last GIV-SP from its Part 135-certified fleet, according to recent ch-aviation research. The final aircraft, a Hawker Beechcraft-derived Gulfstream GIV-SP registered as N165JF (msn 1251), was last seen in operation on January 21, 2025, during a test flight around Miami Opa-Locka. This 30.3-year-old jet, which joined the fleet in early 2023, had been parked at Austin Executive since November 21, 2024, and now marks the end of Gulfstream operations for Craft.
The GIV-SP, along with its sibling aircraft N501XP (msn RK-501), formed the core of Craft’s operations from this manufacturer. The first of these jets was inducted in 2021 and was retired in October 2024, with N165JF serving as the final representative. With these retirements, Craft is now completely transitioning away from Gulfstream Aerospace jets within its Part 135 fleet.
This strategic move is part of a broader fleet modernization initiative by Craft. The company is actively replacing its aging Gulfstream fleet with more modern Bombardier Business Aircraft Challenger jets. Although no new Challenger jets have been added to the fleet yet, CEO Israel Slod confirmed in an exclusive interview with ch-aviation that the transition is underway and expected to be completed by the end of 2024. Craft’s current Part 135 fleet now comprises three Challenger 300s and a Premier IA, marking a significant shift in the company’s business aviation strategy.
Historically, Craft has operated a diverse range of Gulfstream jets, including two GIVs and four G550s, which contributed to its reputation as a versatile operator in the charter and business aviation markets. By phasing out the Gulfstream aircraft, Craft aims to streamline its operations and reduce maintenance costs associated with older aircraft, while also enhancing overall operational efficiency and safety. The company follows an ownership model where investors buy stakes in “pods” consisting of five aircraft, allowing for shared risk and greater financial flexibility across its fleet.
The retirement of the Gulfstream GIV-SP comes at a time when the aviation industry is focused on fleet modernization to meet evolving regulatory standards and customer expectations. Craft’s decision to invest in Bombardier Business Aircraft, such as the Challenger series, reflects its commitment to providing a superior travel experience with modern technology and enhanced performance. The Challenger jets are renowned for their fuel efficiency, advanced avionics, and passenger comfort, making them a suitable replacement for the aging Gulfstream models.
Craft’s fleet strategy is designed to position the company for long-term success in a competitive market. The modernization initiative is expected to improve reliability, reduce operating costs, and offer a more streamlined maintenance schedule. With these strategic changes, Craft (Miami Opa-Locka) is not only updating its fleet but also reinforcing its commitment to safety and operational excellence in the charter aviation sector.
As the company finalizes its transition away from Gulfstream Aerospace jets, stakeholders and customers can expect a more efficient and modern fleet that aligns with current industry standards. This decisive move marks a new chapter in Craft’s operational history, setting the stage for enhanced performance and future growth in the ever-evolving world of aviation.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com