Long-term LTN resident finally departs

Gulfstream 2 number 177 first flew on 6th February 1976 (as N17587). It was delivered to the Government of Nigeria as 5N-AGV in November 1976. I actually saw it on delivery through Heathrow on the 10th of that month.

It arrived at Luton on a first visit on 2nd February 2005 from Palma for some maintenance. Things obviously didn't go as planned as it was stored, minus tail, for many months. It did engine runs in 2007 and was re-registered to 5N-BGV at the end of 2008. It also carried 5N-BLV for a short while but this was probably a painting error. It did its first air test on 31st January 2009. On 7th February it departed to Biggin Hill for painting and returned on 19th March sporting a smart new scheme in the colours of the Rochas Foundation.

5N-BGV finally departed Luton yesterday (19th September) to the States via Keflavik after a stay (bar 6 weeks) of six and a half years. Final destination was Atlanta-Paulding. The registration N1513 appears to be reserved.

UPDATE Repositioned from Paulding to Gwinnett County-Briscoe Field on 24th Sept where it's still (Apr 2012) awaiting a buyer. See www.flickr.com/photos/hdgrubb/7086290061/



Pic 1. Seen shortly after arrival on 4th February 2005

(credit: Doug MacDonald)

Pic 2. Seen on 8th February 2006 minus tail and other bits

Pic 3. Departing on an air test 31st January 2009

(credit: Graham Wasey)

Pic 4. New colours seen on 20th March 2009