Bombardier Challenger 3500 vs Gulfstream G280
Both the Bombardier Challenger 3500 and Gulfstream G280 are super-midsize business jets, positioned for efficient coast-to-coast-type missions with a premium cabin experience. In range, the Challenger 3500 is typically quoted around 3,400 nautical miles, while the G280 is generally listed around 3,600 nautical miles, giving the Gulfstream a modest advantage on longer nonstop city pairs, depending on payload, winds, and reserves. For passenger capacity, both are commonly configured for about eight to ten passengers in typical executive layouts, though each can be arranged to seat more in higher-density configurations. In practical terms, the Challenger 3500 emphasizes cabin comfort and refinement in a super-midsize footprint, while the G280 competes strongly on published range and cruise capability. Exact real-world capability for either aircraft will vary with interior configuration, number of occupants, baggage, runway conditions, and mission profile.
| Spec | Bombardier Challenger 3500 | Gulfstream G280 |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 6.71 | $ 6.57 |
| Min Crew | 2 | 2 |
| Total Seats | 10 | 10 |
| Manufacturer | Bombardier | Gulfstream |
| Aircraft Name | Challenger 3500 | G280 |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 3400 | 3600 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.84 | $ 0.82 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 10 | 10 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | Un-Verified |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 15950 | 15550 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 8 | 8 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 3,152 | $ 3,168 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 Advanced | Gulfstream PlaneView (Pro Line Fusion) |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 533 | 481 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $26,950,000 | $24,900,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Lavatory | 1 Enclosed Flushing | 1 Enclosed Belted Flushing |
| Min Crew | 2 | 2 |
| Crew Rest | No | No |
| Jump Seat | Yes | No |
| Total Seats | 10 | 10 |
| Galley Location | FWD | FWD |
| Max Cabin Seats | 10 | 10 |
| Lavatory Location | AFT | AFT |
| Cabin Pressure (psi) | 8.8 | 9.2 |
| Galley / Refreshment | Galley | Galley |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 8 | 8 |
| SL Cabin Altitude (ft) | 23338 | 25000 |
| Max Cabin Altitude (ft) | — | 5800 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes |
| Model | HTF73500 | HTF7250G |
| TBO (hrs) | On-Condition | On-Condition |
| Flat Rating | ISA + 15 | ISA + 17 |
| Thrust (lbs) | 7323 | 7624 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 2 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 68.7 | 66.9 |
| Wingspan (ft) | 69 | 63 |
| Aisle Step (ft) | Flat Floor | 0.3 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 7.2 | 6.9 |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 6 | 6.3 |
| Cabin Length (ft) | 25.2 | 25.9 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 20 | 21.4 |
| Cabin Width - Floor (ft) | 5.1 | 5.4 |
| Cabin Length - Seating (ft) | 16.6 | 17.7 |
| Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft) | 106 | 154 |