G280 Aircraft Information

The Gulfstream G280

A comprehensive overview of this exceptional business jet

The Gulfstream G280 is the smallest and most affordable aircraft in Gulfstream's lineup. This twin-engine, super-midsize business jet is manufactured by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) in partnership with Gulfstream Aerospace.

Often referred to as the "Baby Gulfstream," it was originally named the Gulfstream G250 and had its maiden flight on December 11, 2009. It received certification from Israel in December 2011 and from the US FAA in July 2012.

The G280 represents a significant upgrade from its predecessor, the G200, with substantial enhancements in aerodynamics, avionics, propulsion, and passenger comfort. Certified for steep approaches, the G280 is ideally suited for short runways, high-altitude airports, and low-visibility conditions.

Technical Specifications

Detailed specifications of the Gulfstream G280

Exterior Dimensions

Exterior Height: 21 ft 4 in
Wing Span: 63 ft 0 in
Length: 66 ft 10 in

Interior Dimensions

Cabin Height: 6 ft 1 in
Cabin Width: 7 ft 2 in
Cabin Length: 25 ft 10 in
Cabin Volume: 935 cu ft
Door Height: 6 ft 0 in
Door Width: 2 ft 9 in
Internal Baggage: 120 cu ft

Weights

Max T/O Weight: 39,600 lb
Max Landing Weight: 32,700 lb
Operating Weight: 24,150 lb
Empty Weight: 24,150 lb
Fuel Capacity: 14,600 lb
Payload Useful: 15,600 lb
Payload W/Full Fuel: 1,000 lb
Max Payload: 4,050 lb

Performance

Range: 3,600 nm (NBAA IFR)
Max Speed: 566 kts (Mach 0.85)
Normal Cruise: 470 kts
Economy Cruise: 459 kts
Service Ceiling: 45,000 ft
Rate of Climb: 5,000 fpm
Takeoff Distance: 4,750 ft
Landing Distance: 2,720 ft

Performance Capabilities

Exceptional range and speed for a super-midsize jet

The Gulfstream G280 offers exceptional performance for a super-midsize business jet. With a range of 3,600 nautical miles (6,667 km) at Mach 0.80 with four passengers, the G280 can easily handle transcontinental and transatlantic flights.

The aircraft's impressive climb rate of 5,000 feet per minute allows it to quickly reach its optimal cruising altitude, while its maximum operating altitude of 45,000 feet enables it to fly above most weather and commercial traffic.

The G280's advanced aerodynamics and powerful Honeywell HTF7250G engines, each producing 7,624 pounds of thrust, contribute to its excellent fuel efficiency and performance capabilities. The aircraft can reach a maximum speed of Mach 0.85 (566 knots), making it one of the fastest aircraft in its class.

Certified for steep approaches, the G280 can access challenging airports with short runways or those requiring special approach procedures, such as London City Airport.

Cabin Features

Luxurious comfort and advanced amenities

The G280 cabin offers exceptional comfort with up to two living areas that can accommodate up to 10 passengers. The spacious cabin measures 25 ft 10 in long, 7 ft 2 in wide, and 6 ft 1 in tall, providing a total volume of 935 cubic feet.

The cabin features 19 large oval windows that flood the interior with natural light, creating a bright and open atmosphere. The G280's cabin altitude is maintained at a comfortable 7,000 feet even when cruising at 45,000 feet, reducing passenger fatigue on long flights.

Standard cabin amenities include:

100% fresh air replenishment system
Advanced climate control system
Fully equipped galley
Private lavatory with full-size closet
In-flight accessible baggage compartment
Advanced sound suppression system
High-definition entertainment system
Satellite communications
High-speed internet connectivity

The cabin can be configured in various layouts to suit different needs, including a standard configuration with forward club seating, a mid-cabin conference grouping, and aft seating that converts to a sleeping area.

Common Issues & Considerations

What to be aware of when purchasing a G280

While the Gulfstream G280 is a highly reliable aircraft, there are several areas that deserve special attention during a pre-buy inspection:

Honeywell HTF7250G Engines

The engines require careful inspection for hot section condition, compressor blade erosion, and compliance with service bulletins. Early production engines may have specific service bulletins that should be verified.

Avionics Systems

The PlaneView 280 avionics suite requires regular software updates. Outdated software can lead to functionality issues and may require costly updates to bring systems current.

Environmental Control System

The cabin pressurization and air conditioning systems should be thoroughly tested. Issues with these systems can be expensive to repair and affect passenger comfort.

Landing Gear

The landing gear system should be inspected for proper operation, hydraulic leaks, and wear patterns. Overhaul intervals and compliance with service bulletins should be verified.

For a more comprehensive discussion of common G280 issues and inspection points, visit our Common Issues page.

Market Position

Value proposition and competitive analysis

The Gulfstream G280 occupies a unique position in the super-midsize business jet market. As of Q2 2024, new G280 aircraft have a list price of approximately $24.5 million, while pre-owned models typically range from $15-22 million depending on age, condition, and equipment.

Compared to its competitors in the super-midsize category, the G280 offers several advantages:

Superior Range: The G280's 3,600 nm range exceeds most competitors in its class
Cabin Size: Larger cabin volume than many competing aircraft
Runway Performance: Steep approach certification allows access to challenging airports
Brand Prestige: The Gulfstream name carries significant value in the market

The G280 competes primarily with the Bombardier Challenger 350, Embraer Praetor 600, and Cessna Citation Longitude. Each offers different advantages, but the G280's combination of range, speed, and cabin comfort makes it a compelling option for many buyers.

Operating costs for the G280 are estimated at approximately $3,220 per hour, which includes fuel, maintenance, crew, and other direct operating costs. This figure is competitive within its class and represents good value considering the aircraft's capabilities.

Competitive Comparison

Aircraft	Range (nm)	Max Speed	Cabin Volume (cu ft)	Typical Price (Used)
Gulfstream G280	3,600	Mach 0.85	935	$15-22M
Bombardier Challenger 350	3,200	Mach 0.83	860	$14-20M
Embraer Praetor 600	3,900	Mach 0.83	855	$17-21M
Cessna Citation Longitude	3,500	Mach 0.84	775	$15-19M

G280PreBuy

Gulfstream G280 Aircraft