Cessna Citation Cj4 vs Gulfstream G280
The Cessna Citation CJ4 and Gulfstream G280 sit in different business-jet categories, which drives meaningful differences in capability. The Citation CJ4 is typically considered a light jet, optimized for efficient short-to-midrange missions, lower operating costs, and access to smaller airports. The Gulfstream G280 is generally classed as a super-midsize jet, designed for longer legs, higher cruise capability, and a larger, more accommodating cabin. In range, the CJ4 is suited to regional and many transcontinental trips, with a typical range around 2,000 nautical miles depending on conditions and payload. The G280 offers substantially more reach, commonly quoted around 3,600 nautical miles, enabling longer nonstop routes that the CJ4 would usually need to break into one or more fuel stops. Passenger capacity also reflects the size gap. A CJ4 is commonly configured for about 7 to 8 passengers, while a G280 is often arranged for around 9 to 10 passengers, with more room for baggage and greater comfort on longer flights.
| Spec | Cessna Citation CJ4 | Gulfstream G280 |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 4.37 | $ 6.57 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 2 |
| Total Seats | 9 | 10 |
| Manufacturer | Cessna Citation | Gulfstream |
| Aircraft Name | CJ4 | G280 |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 2170 | 3600 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.62 | $ 0.82 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 8 | 10 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | Un-Verified |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 6914 | 15550 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 7 | 8 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 1,970 | $ 3,168 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 | Gulfstream PlaneView (Pro Line Fusion) |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 440 | 481 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $11,290,000 | $24,900,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Lavatory | 1 Enclosed Belted Flushing | 1 Enclosed Belted Flushing |
| Min Crew | 1 | 2 |
| Crew Rest | No | No |
| Jump Seat | No | No |
| Total Seats | 9 | 10 |
| Galley Location | FWD | FWD |
| Max Cabin Seats | 8 | 10 |
| Lavatory Location | AFT | AFT |
| Cabin Pressure (psi) | 9 | 9.2 |
| Galley / Refreshment | Galley | Galley |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 7 | 8 |
| SL Cabin Altitude (ft) | 24005 | 25000 |
| Max Cabin Altitude (ft) | — | 5800 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes |
| Model | FJ44-4A | HTF7250G |
| TBO (hrs) | 5000 | On-Condition |
| Flat Rating | ISA + 11 | ISA + 17 |
| Thrust (lbs) | 3621 | 7624 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 2 |
| Fuel Burn (lbph) | 757 | — |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 870 | — |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 53.4 | 66.9 |
| Wingspan (ft) | 50 | 63 |
| Aisle Step (ft) | 0.4 | 0.3 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 4.8 | 6.9 |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 4.8 | 6.3 |
| Cabin Length (ft) | 17.2 | 25.9 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 15.5 | 21.4 |
| Cabin Width - Floor (ft) | 3.1 | 5.4 |
| Cabin Length - Seating (ft) | 14.8 | 17.7 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 70 | — |
| Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft) | 7 | 154 |