Bombardier Challenger 650 vs Gulfstream G280
The Bombardier Challenger 650 and Gulfstream G280 are both super-midsize business jets, but they emphasize different strengths. The Challenger 650 is often positioned as a larger-cabin, comfort-oriented option with a typically higher usable passenger load, commonly configured for about 10 to 12 passengers, and it is well known for a wide cabin that suits longer onboard meetings or multiple seating zones. Its range is generally in the mid‑3,000 nautical mile class, making it well suited to transcontinental missions and many North Atlantic city pairs with favorable winds and payload. The Gulfstream G280 is also a super‑midsize jet, typically arranged for about 8 to 10 passengers, and it is frequently chosen for its combination of speed and longer reach. Its range is usually cited around the high‑3,000 to roughly 4,000 nautical mile class, which can open more nonstop pairings at comparable payloads. In short, the Challenger 650 tends to favor cabin space and passenger flexibility, while the G280 tends to favor range and mission capability.
| Spec | Bombardier Challenger 650 | Gulfstream G280 |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 7.16 | $ 6.57 |
| Min Crew | 2 | 2 |
| Total Seats | 11 | 10 |
| Manufacturer | Bombardier | Gulfstream |
| Aircraft Name | Challenger 650 | G280 |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 4085 | 3600 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.80 | $ 0.82 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 12 | 10 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | Un-Verified |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 21050 | 15550 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 9 | 8 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 3,365 | $ 3,168 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 Advanced | Gulfstream PlaneView (Pro Line Fusion) |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 470 | 481 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $32,400,000 | $24,900,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Lavatory | 2 Enclosed Flushing | 1 Enclosed Belted Flushing |
| Min Crew | 2 | 2 |
| Crew Rest | Yes | No |
| Jump Seat | Yes | No |
| Total Seats | 11 | 10 |
| Galley Location | FWD | FWD |
| Max Cabin Seats | 12 | 10 |
| Lavatory Location | FWD / AFT | AFT |
| Cabin Pressure (psi) | 8.8 | 9.2 |
| Galley / Refreshment | Galley | Galley |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 9 | 8 |
| SL Cabin Altitude (ft) | 23000 | 25000 |
| Max Cabin Altitude (ft) | — | 5800 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes |
| Model | CF34-3B MTO | HTF7250G |
| TBO (hrs) | On-Condition | On-Condition |
| Flat Rating | ISA + 15 | ISA + 17 |
| Thrust (lbs) | 9220 | 7624 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 2 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 68.4 | 66.9 |
| Wingspan (ft) | 64.4 | 63 |
| Aisle Step (ft) | Flat Floor | 0.3 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 7.9 | 6.9 |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 6 | 6.3 |
| Cabin Length (ft) | 25.6 | 25.9 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 20.7 | 21.4 |
| Cabin Width - Floor (ft) | 6.9 | 5.4 |
| Cabin Length - Seating (ft) | 15.4 | 17.7 |
| Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft) | 112 | 154 |