Tanzania Retires G550 After Induction of New G700 Jet
The Tanzanian government has officially retired its Gulfstream G550 presidential aircraft following the recent delivery of a new Gulfstream G700, marking a significant upgrade in the country’s VIP transport capabilities. According to ch-aviation data, the outgoing G550, previously registered as 5H-ONF under the Ministry of Communications and Transport, has now been re-registered in the United States as N821SC.
The 20.6-year-old Gulfstream G550 was withdrawn from active service in late 2024. Between November 28 and December 1, the aircraft was ferried from Dar es Salaam to Savannah International Airport in the United States, where it has remained parked. The move is part of a broader strategy by the Tanzanian government to modernize its VIP and state transport fleet with newer, more efficient aircraft.
The replacement for the G550 is a state-of-the-art Gulfstream G700, registered as 5H-ONE (manufacturer serial number 87015), which was delivered in December 2024. This next-generation business jet is now the primary aircraft for presidential and high-level government travel. The G700 offers advanced avionics, extended range, and improved comfort, underscoring Tanzania’s investment in modern aviation technology for official use.
The country’s current VIP fleet also includes a Fokker 50 and a Fokker F28-3000, although the latter is presently in storage at Dar es Salaam. The upgrade to the G700 signals the government’s intent to gradually replace aging aircraft in the VIP fleet with newer, more capable models to meet evolving travel and operational needs.
Further expansion of the VIP fleet is anticipated. The Tanzanian government’s 2024/2025 national budget includes an interim payment toward the acquisition of a Boeing 737-700 BBJ (Boeing Business Jet). This move follows the purchase of a pre-owned DHC-8-Q400 turboprop in 2024, reinforcing the government’s phased approach to fleet renewal.
The shift from the G550 to the G700 reflects global trends among governments and high-profile operators seeking enhanced performance and lower operating costs. With extended range and greater cabin capacity, the G700 allows for longer, non-stop flights and improved mission flexibility, particularly for international engagements.
As the government continues to modernize its air transport infrastructure, these investments are also seen as a reflection of Tanzania’s broader ambitions to strengthen its regional and global diplomatic presence. By operating a fleet of newer, more efficient aircraft, the country can ensure reliable and secure transportation for its leadership while minimizing maintenance issues associated with older jets.
With the G550 retired and the G700 now in service, Tanzania is entering a new era of VIP aviation, positioning its leadership fleet on par with other nations investing in next-generation executive transport. Further updates on the Boeing BBJ acquisition and additional fleet developments are expected as the government advances its strategic aviation goals.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com