Super Midsize Jet - Current Production
Gulfstream G280: Complete Specs, Performance, and Buyer's Guide (2026)
Gulfstream Aerospace (built by Israel Aerospace Industries)
Gulfstream G280: Complete Specs, Performance, and Buyer's Guide (2026)
The Gulfstream G280, in production since 2012, is the smallest aircraft in Gulfstream's current lineup (often called the "Baby Gulfstream") and the most-affordable Gulfstream available, while still delivering Gulfstream's signature T-tail design, quality, and worldwide service infrastructure in the super-midsize segment. The aircraft is built by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) for Gulfstream Aerospace, with Gulfstream's aerodynamic and interior design teams responsible for the overall configuration and IAI handling detailed design to Gulfstream's specifications. The G280 was originally designated the G250 (launched in 2008) but renamed to G280 in July 2011 after Gulfstream determined the G250 designation was inappropriate in certain cultures (in Mandarin, 250 can translate to "stupid" or "idiotic"). The G280 took its maiden flight on December 11, 2009 in Tel Aviv, received Israeli provisional certification in December 2011, and full FAA certification on September 4, 2012. Powered by twin Honeywell HTF7250G turbofan engines producing 7,624 lbst each, the G280 delivers 3,600 nautical miles of range (Mach 0.80 cruise, 4 passengers, NBAA IFR reserves), Mach 0.85 maximum cruise speed, and an FL510 (51,000 ft) service ceiling. The aircraft is operated by two pilots with seating for up to 10 passengers in a 25 ft 10 in cabin. On September 30, 2025, Gulfstream announced the updated G300 successor (first flight December 5, 2025). Current G280 list price (Q2 2025): $24,500,000.
For operators wanting Gulfstream brand pedigree with worldwide service infrastructure at substantially attainable pricing, the G280 represents the entry point into the Gulfstream family with steep approach certification and proven super-midsize capability.
Gulfstream G280 Specifications at a Glance
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Category | Super Midsize Jet - Current Production |
| Production Status | Active production (2012-Present) |
| Designation | Gulfstream G280 (renamed from G250 in July 2011) |
| Manufacturer | IAI for Gulfstream Aerospace (Israeli assembly, Dallas finishing) |
| Aerodynamic/Interior Design | Gulfstream |
| Detailed Design | IAI to Gulfstream specifications |
| Nickname | "Baby Gulfstream" |
| Program Launch | 2008 |
| Maiden Flight | December 11, 2009 (Tel Aviv) |
| Israeli Provisional Certification | December 2011 |
| FAA/Israeli Full Certification | September 4, 2012 |
| Service Entry | 2012 |
| Production Years | 2012 to Present |
| Predecessor | Gulfstream G200 (1999-2011) |
| Successor (Announced) | Gulfstream G300 (Sept 30, 2025 unveiled, Dec 5, 2025 first flight) |
| Crew | 2 pilots |
| Passengers (Standard) | 8 |
| Passengers (Max Certified) | 10 |
| Passengers (Max Per planephd) | 19 |
| Sleeping Capacity | 5 (with beds) |
| Engines | 2× Honeywell HTF7250G turbofans |
| Thrust per Engine | 7,624 lbst (some sources 7,624 lbf) |
| Engine Family | HTF7000 (same as Challenger 300/350) |
| Engine Fuel Burn (FL410 Mach 0.82) | 900 lb/hr per engine |
| Engine Fuel Savings vs G200 | 7-12% less burn |
| Wing | New Gulfstream G550-airfoil design (495 sq ft) |
| Wing Area Increase vs G200 | +126 sq ft (from 369 to 495) |
| Tail | T-tail (Gulfstream signature) |
| Wing Anti-Ice | Engine bleed air (vs G200's rubber boots) |
| Max Range (4 pax + 2 crew NBAA IFR @ Mach 0.80) | 3,600 nm |
| Range vs G200 | +200 nm |
| Max Cruise Speed | Mach 0.85 (Mach 0.84 some sources) |
| Long-Range Cruise | Mach 0.80 |
| Service Ceiling | FL510 (51,000 ft per planephd, 45,000 ft per most sources) |
| Initial Climb (MTOW) | Direct to 43,000 ft |
| Cabin Altitude at FL410 | 7,000 ft |
| Cabin Length | 25 ft 10 in (+17 inches vs G200) |
| Cabin Width | 7 ft 2 in (cross-section retained from G200) |
| Cabin Width (Finished) | 6 ft 11 in (84 in) |
| Cabin Height | 6 ft 1 in (1.91 m - best in class per planephd) |
| Cabin Volume | 935 cu ft |
| Cabin Windows | 19 oval signature windows (4 more than G200) |
| Total Baggage Volume | +200 lb more than G200 |
| Steep Approach Certified | Yes |
| Cross-Section Same as G200 | Yes (proven tube design) |
| Cabin Acoustics | Electric Boat (submarine maker) acoustic engineers (whisper-quiet) |
| Cabin Air Refresh | Every 2 minutes (100% fresh) |
| Maximum Flight Time | 7+ hours |
| Balanced Field Length | 4,750 ft (vs G200's 4,960 ft) |
| Q2 2025 Factory List Price | $24,500,000 |
| 2021 Equipped Price | $24,500,000 |
| New G280 Charter Price | $28,000,000 (per Private Jet Card) |
History as Gulfstream's Modern Super-Mid
The G280 represents the modernized Gulfstream-engineered successor to the IAI-designed G200, with substantial improvements across virtually every metric.
Platform timeline:
- 2005: Gulfstream and IAI begin follow-on aircraft design
- 2008: G250 launched
- December 11, 2009: Maiden flight in Tel Aviv
- July 2011: Renamed G280 (Mandarin culture sensitivity)
- December 2011: Provisional Israeli certification
- July 2012: FAA security report on electronic systems
- September 4, 2012: Full FAA and Israeli certification
- 2012-Present: Active production
- 2021: Equipped price $24.5M
- September 30, 2025: Gulfstream unveils G300 successor
- December 5, 2025: G300 first flight
- Q2 2025: Current G280 list price $24.5M
Notable design partnership:
- Fuselage, empennage, landing gear: IAI manufactures
- Wing: Spirit AeroSystems (later Triumph Group)
- Final assembly: Israel
- Interior finishing/painting: Dallas, Texas
- Aerodynamic/interior design: Gulfstream
- Detailed design: IAI to Gulfstream's specifications
Key Improvements Over Gulfstream G200
The G280 represents a substantially new aircraft (not just an upgrade):
1. New Wing (G550-Airfoil)
The defining G280 change:
- 495 sq ft wing area: vs G200's 369 sq ft (+126 sq ft)
- Based on G550 airfoil: Gulfstream proven design
- Direct climb to 43,000 ft: Capability
- Mach 0.80 design cruise: vs G200's Mach 0.75
- Better field performance: 4,750 vs 4,960 ft
2. New Honeywell HTF7250G Engines
- 7,624 lbst per engine: Major thrust upgrade over G200's 5,700-6,040 lbf
- Same HTF7000 family: As Challenger 300/350
- 7-12% less fuel burn: vs G200
- Better hot-and-high performance: Operational benefit
- 2,000 ft less runway than G200: Per BJT
- First HTF7250G application: Industry distinction
3. T-Tail Configuration (Gulfstream Signature)
- T-tail design: Replaces G200's cruciform
- Looks like a Gulfstream: Per BJT
- Larger horizontal/vertical stabilizers: Modern
- Visual signature: Gulfstream family heritage
4. Cabin Length Stretch and More Windows
- +17 inches usable cabin: Internal lengthening
- External dimensions unchanged: Eliminated rear fuselage fuel tank
- +4 cabin windows: 19 total (vs G200's 15)
- More natural light: Premium experience
5. Wing Anti-Ice Bleed Air
- Engine bleed air: Replaces G200's rubber de-ice boots
- More effective: Better operational reliability
- Modern standard: Per current super-mid
6. Steep Approach Certification
- London City, Aspen capable: Standard certification
- High-altitude airport approved: Operational flexibility
- Industry distinction: Few competitors match standard
7. Electric Boat (Submarine Maker) Acoustic Engineering
- Submarine acoustic engineering team: Industry-unique
- Whisper-quiet cabin: Arguably quietest business jet cabin
- Whisper to person next to you: Per Corporate Jet Investor
- Premium acoustic experience: Per Gulfstream
8. New Type Certificate (Not G200 Derivative)
- Brand new aircraft per Gulfstream: Despite shared fuselage cross-section
- New engines, wing, empennage, avionics: All new
- Required new type certificate: New aircraft technically
Cabin Interior
The G280 cabin features 17 inches more usable space than the G200:
| Cabin Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Cabin Length | 25 ft 10 in (+17 inches vs G200) |
| Cabin Width (Finished) | 6 ft 11 in (84 in) |
| Cabin Width (Cross-Section) | 7 ft 2 in |
| Cabin Height | 6 ft 1 in (1.91 m - best in class per planephd) |
| Cabin Volume | 935 cu ft |
| Cabin Windows | 19 oval signature Gulfstream windows |
| Cabin Altitude at FL410 | 7,000 ft |
Standard 8-10 Passenger Configuration
- Standard 8-Passenger: Various executive layouts
- Up to 10 Passengers: With higher-density configurations
- Beds for 5 Passengers: Standard sleep configuration
- Forward Galley: Standard
- Aft Lavatory: Standard
- Access From Cabin to Baggage: Standard
Cabin Features
- Whisper-quiet cabin: Electric Boat acoustic engineers
- 6'1" cabin height: Best in class per planephd
- 935 cu ft cabin volume: Substantial for class
- 19 Gulfstream signature oval windows: Premium natural light
- Gulfstream CMS via iPod Touch: Standard
- Cabin temp/lighting/monitor/entertainment control: Standard
- Available for download to Apple devices: Modern
- Seat position control: Standard
- 100% fresh air every 2 minutes: Health-focused
- Beds for 5 passengers: Long-haul capability
Performance
Speed and Range
| Performance Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Max Cruise Speed | Mach 0.85 (Mach 0.84 some sources) |
| Long-Range Cruise | Mach 0.80 |
| Range (Mach 0.80, 4 pax, NBAA IFR) | 3,600 nm |
| Service Ceiling | FL510 (51,000 ft per planephd; 45,000 ft per other sources) |
| Initial Climb (MTOW) | Direct to 43,000 ft |
| Maximum Flight Time | 7+ hours |
| Fuel Burn (FL410 Mach 0.82) | 900 lb/hr per engine |
Runway Performance
| Field Performance | Value |
|---|---|
| Balanced Field Length | 4,750 ft (vs G200's 4,960 ft) |
| Steep Approach Capable | Yes |
| 2,000 ft Less Runway Than G200 | Per BJT |
Typical Mission Examples
- London to New York (3,400 nm) - non-stop standard (per planephd "only aircraft in class")
- Singapore to Dubai (3,700 nm) - achievable
- Washington DC to Geneva (~3,900 nm) - record set in 7h 47m
- Transcontinental U.S.: Workhorse capability
- Transatlantic operations: Standard
Speed Records
- Washington DC to Geneva: 7 hours 47 minutes (transatlantic record)
- Per Scott Neal (Gulfstream VP): Will fly anywhere in US nonstop against any winds any time of year
Engines
Two Honeywell HTF7250G turbofan engines, each producing 7,624 lbst (combined 15,248 lbf).
Key features:
- Same HTF7000 family: As Challenger 300/350
- First HTF7250G application: Industry distinction
- 5,000-hour TBO: Extended maintenance intervals
- 7-12% less fuel burn than G200: Modern efficiency
- 900 lb/hr per engine at FL410 Mach 0.82: Operational fuel
- Modern reliability: Established HTF7000 family
Avionics
Modern Gulfstream avionics suite:
- Modern glass cockpit: State-of-the-art for 2012 era
- Synthetic vision: Standard
- Modern flight management: Integrated
- Standard FANS, CPDLC, ADS-B: Modern operating
- Common retrofits: Latest avionics packages
Operating Costs
| Cost Item | Per Hour |
|---|---|
| Fuel (~280 gph) | $2,000 to $2,400 |
| Engine Reserve | $600 |
| Airframe Maintenance | $600 |
| Misc Variable | $400 |
| Total Variable Cost | ~$3,600 to $4,000/hr |
Annual operating budget at 450 hours: approximately $3.2 to $3.5 million all-in.
7-12% less fuel burn than G200, plus higher speed reduces fuel per nautical mile (per Gulfstream).
Pricing
| Year Range | Price |
|---|---|
| 2024 to 2026 G280 (Current List Q2 2025) | $24,500,000 |
| 2018 to 2023 G280 | $18,000,000 to $22,000,000 |
| 2012 to 2017 G280 (Early Production) | $13,000,000 to $18,000,000 |
Q2 2025 factory list price: $24,500,000.
G300 Successor (Announced September 2025)
On September 30, 2025, Gulfstream unveiled the G300, the updated successor to the G280:
- First Flight: December 5, 2025
- Status: Under development as of 2026
- Improvements: Expected modernization across cabin, avionics, performance
- Service Entry: To be announced
Mission Profile
Best fit profiles:
- Gulfstream Brand Operators: Entry into Gulfstream family
- Transatlantic Operators: 3,600 nm range, London-NY non-stop
- Steep Approach Operators: London City, Aspen standard
- Operators Valuing Cabin Quiet: Electric Boat acoustic engineering
- Step-Up From G200: Substantially superior on every metric
Less suited if:
- You need 4,000+ nm range (consider Praetor 600)
- You require single-pilot certification (not certified)
- You want voice-controlled cabin (consider Challenger 3500)
- You need widest super-mid cabin (Challenger 3500 has 7'2" flat floor; Longitude has 7'11")
- You want maximum speed (Citation X+ has Mach 0.935)
Pros and Cons
What the G280 Does Well
- 3,600 nm range
- Mach 0.85 max cruise (Mach 0.80 long-range)
- FL510 service ceiling
- 43,000 ft direct climb at MTOW
- Honeywell HTF7250G engines (7,624 lbst each)
- New G550-airfoil wing (495 sq ft)
- T-tail Gulfstream signature
- Wing anti-ice via engine bleed air
- Steep approach certified (London City, Aspen)
- 6'1" cabin height (best in class per planephd)
- 19 oval signature Gulfstream windows
- Whisper-quiet cabin (Electric Boat acoustic engineering)
- 100% fresh cabin air every 2 minutes
- 7,000 ft cabin altitude at FL410
- 7-12% less fuel burn than G200
- Beds for 5 passengers
- 2,000 ft less runway than G200
- Gulfstream worldwide service network
Tradeoffs to Understand
- 3,600 nm less than Praetor 600's 4,018 nm
- 7'2" cross-section less than Citation Longitude's 7'11"
- Two-pilot operation required
- $24.5M list price substantial
- G300 successor announced (may impact resale)
- Built by IAI in Israel (vs Gulfstream Savannah for larger Gulfstreams)
- 6'11" finished cabin width less than 7'2" cross-section
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the G280 originally called the G250?
The aircraft was launched as the G250 in 2008. However, in July 2011, Gulfstream renamed it to the G280 because "the company determined that G280 is a more amenable number sequence [than G250] in certain cultures." Specifically, in Mandarin, the number 250 can translate as "stupid" or "idiotic," which was inappropriate for Chinese market launch.
How is the G280 different from the G200?
The G280 (2012) is substantially superior to the G200 (1999-2011) on every metric per Corporate Jet Investor. Key improvements: new G550-airfoil wing (495 vs 369 sq ft), new HTF7250G engines (7,624 vs 5,700-6,040 lbf), T-tail (vs cruciform), 17-inch cabin stretch, 19 vs 15 windows, +200 lb baggage, steep approach certification, 4,750 vs 4,960 ft balanced field, 3,600 vs 3,400 nm range, wing anti-ice via bleed air. Required new type certificate due to extensive changes.
How is the G280 different from the G300?
The Gulfstream G300 (announced September 30, 2025, first flight December 5, 2025) is the updated successor to the G280. The G300 is currently under development and details are emerging. The G300 represents Gulfstream's continued investment in the super-midsize segment.
How many G280s have been built?
Production figures are continuing as the G280 remains in active production. The aircraft has been in production since 2012 with substantial fleet establishment.
How far can a G280 fly?
The Gulfstream G280 has a maximum range of 3,600 nautical miles with 4 passengers, 2 crew, NBAA IFR reserves, at Mach 0.80 cruise. Routes like London to New York and Singapore to Dubai are non-stop achievable.
Is the G280 single-pilot certified?
No. The G280 requires two pilots.
What engines power the G280?
Two Honeywell HTF7250G turbofan engines, each producing 7,624 lbst of thrust. Same HTF7000 engine family as the Bombardier Challenger 300/350.
What is the G280's claim to fame?
Per planephd, the G280 is the "only aircraft in its class capable of traveling between London and New York non-stop." The G280 set a transatlantic speed record flying Washington DC to Geneva in 7 hours 47 minutes. Combined with steep approach certification, whisper-quiet Electric Boat acoustic engineering, and Gulfstream brand pedigree, the G280 occupies a unique position in super-mid.
Where is the G280 built?
The G280 is built in a multi-international supply chain. IAI manufactures the fuselage, empennage, and landing gear in Israel. The wing is built by Spirit AeroSystems (now Triumph Group). Final assembly is in Israel, and the aircraft is then ferried to Dallas, Texas for interior finishing and painting.
The Bottom Line
The Gulfstream G280 is the smallest aircraft in Gulfstream's lineup ("Baby Gulfstream"), delivering Gulfstream brand pedigree, worldwide service infrastructure, T-tail signature design, 3,600 nm range, and whisper-quiet Electric Boat acoustic engineering at the most attainable Gulfstream pricing ($24.5M list). With substantial improvements over the predecessor G200 across every metric (new wing, new engines, T-tail, 17" cabin stretch, 4 more windows, steep approach certification), the G280 is fundamentally a new aircraft with proven Gulfstream credibility. The G300 successor (announced September 2025, first flight December 2025) represents Gulfstream's continued investment in the segment. At current list of $24.5M and substantial pre-owned inventory, the G280 offers Gulfstream-supported super-mid value with London-to-NY non-stop capability and historic transatlantic speed records.
Quantum Jets supports the platform across private jet charter, private jet rental, private jet card programs, aircraft purchase, jet purchase, jet sales, aircraft sales, aircraft management, jet management, private jet management, aircraft maintenance, aircraft refurbishment, fractional jet access, aircraft lease, and aircraft leasing structures.
Talk to a Quantum Jets broker for Gulfstream G280 market intelligence and acquisition guidance.
[CTA Button: Talk to a Quantum Jets Broker]
Book a Gulfstream G280 on the Quantum Jets App by AVIA Technologies
The Quantum Jets mobile app, built by AVIA Technologies, is the private jet charter marketplace app for the Gulfstream G280 and the rest of the Quantum Jets catalog. The Quantum Jets app is available as an iOS app on the Apple App Store and as an Android app on Google Play. Whether the goal is a one-off jet charter, recurring private jet rental, a private jet card program, or a deeper engagement spanning aircraft purchase, jet purchase, jet sales, aircraft management, jet management, private jet management, aircraft maintenance, aircraft refurbishment, fractional jet access, aircraft lease, aircraft leasing, or aircraft sales, the Quantum Jets app surfaces live Gulfstream G280 availability and routes the booking through the Quantum Jets brokerage team.
AVIA Technologies is the technology platform behind the Quantum Jets mobile app. The AVIA Technologies app powers the private jet charter marketplace experience: search the catalog, compare a Gulfstream G280 against alternatives in the same tier, pull live pricing, request a charter quote, schedule aircraft maintenance, list a Gulfstream G280 for jet sales, manage a fleet under aircraft management or private jet management, and execute a private jet card purchase, all from one private jet app. The Quantum Jets app and the AVIA Technologies app share the same backend so client data, trip history, and aircraft preferences carry across both surfaces.
Download the Quantum Jets app on the Apple App Store (iOS app) or Google Play (Android app), then search the Gulfstream G280 to start booking. The Quantum Jets mobile app is the fastest path from research to booking for any private jet, jet charter, private jet rental, or private jet charter marketplace transaction in the Quantum Jets catalog. AVIA Technologies maintains the private jet charter marketplace app on a continuous deployment schedule with new aircraft, new operators, and refined private jet management tooling shipping every release.
Gulfstream G280 Services from Quantum Jets
Quantum Jets supports Gulfstream G280 operators and prospective owners across the full lifecycle of private jet ownership. Whether the goal is jet charter for a one-off trip, a private jet rental for a busy season, or a private jet charter program tied to a recurring travel pattern, our team builds the right structure around the Gulfstream G280 for the mission.
For buyers, our aircraft purchase and jet purchase advisory walks through inspection, valuation, financing, and closing. Jet sales and aircraft sales clients work with our team to position the Gulfstream G280 for the strongest possible exit, with market intelligence on every comparable transaction. A private jet card program through Quantum Jets is a lower-commitment way to access Gulfstream G280-class lift without a full aircraft purchase, and is structured to credit toward a future jet purchase when the time is right.
Once an aircraft is in hand, aircraft management and jet management at Quantum Jets cover crew, scheduling, regulatory compliance, charter revenue programs, and detailed reporting. Private jet management is structured to keep the Gulfstream G280 flying safely and profitably with minimum owner overhead. Aircraft maintenance is coordinated through manufacturer-authorized service centers, and aircraft refurbishment programs (interior, paint, avionics, connectivity) are managed end-to-end so the Gulfstream G280 retains residual value over its operating life.
Fractional jet programs are available for Gulfstream G280-class travelers who want guaranteed access without sole ownership. Aircraft lease and aircraft leasing arrangements (operating, finance, dry, wet) are structured to match the operator's hours, geography, and balance sheet. The Gulfstream G280 fits naturally into all of these structures, and Quantum Jets handles the structuring, documentation, and lifecycle service so the owner can focus on flying.
If you are evaluating a Gulfstream G280 for purchase, charter, lease, fractional access, management, refurbishment, or sale, talk to a Quantum Jets broker for a custom market scan and pre-buy diligence.
Related Aircraft Guides:
- Gulfstream G200: Direct Predecessor (Cruciform Tail, PW306 Engines)
- Gulfstream G300: Direct Successor (Announced September 2025)
- Bombardier Challenger 3500: Direct Competitor (Voice Control)
- Cessna Citation Longitude: Direct Competitor (Garmin G5000)
- Embraer Praetor 600: Direct Competitor (Longer Range)
- Dassault Falcon 2000LXS: Direct Widebody Competitor
The Gulfstream G280 is currently in production by IAI for Gulfstream Aerospace. G300 successor announced September 2025. Aircraft available through Gulfstream Aerospace and authorized brokers. Specifications accurate as of 2026.