Cessna Citation Sovereign vs Gulfstream G280
The Cessna Citation Sovereign+ and Gulfstream G280 are both super‑mid‑size business jets, but they emphasize different strengths. The Sovereign+ is typically positioned as a super‑mid jet optimized for efficient U.S. transcontinental missions and strong runway performance, while the G280 is often viewed as a higher‑performing entry in the same class with more range capability. In range, the G280 generally leads, with an advertised capability around 3,600 nautical miles, enabling longer nonstop city pairs and more flexibility with reserves. The Sovereign+ is usually quoted around 3,200 nautical miles, which still covers many coast‑to‑coast routes but with less cushion for adverse winds or alternate requirements. For passenger capacity, both commonly seat about 8 to 10 passengers in typical executive layouts. The G280 is frequently configured for up to 10, whereas the Sovereign+ is often arranged for 8 to 9, though exact capacity depends on interior and cabin amenities.
| Spec | Cessna Citation Sovereign+ | Gulfstream G280 |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 6.02 | $ 6.57 |
| Min Crew | 2 | 2 |
| Total Seats | 11 | 10 |
| Manufacturer | Cessna Citation | Gulfstream |
| Aircraft Name | Sovereign + | G280 |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 3138 | 3600 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.67 | $ 0.82 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 12 | 10 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | Un-Verified |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 12790 | 15550 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 9 | 8 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 2,699 | $ 3,168 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Garmin G5000 | Gulfstream PlaneView (Pro Line Fusion) |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 458 | 481 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $19,730,000 | $24,900,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Lavatory | 1 Enclosed Belted Flushing | 1 Enclosed Belted Flushing |
| Min Crew | 2 | 2 |
| Crew Rest | No | No |
| Jump Seat | No | No |
| Total Seats | 11 | 10 |
| Galley Location | FWD | FWD |
| Max Cabin Seats | 12 | 10 |
| Lavatory Location | AFT | AFT |
| Cabin Pressure (psi) | 9.3 | 9.2 |
| Galley / Refreshment | Galley | Galley |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 9 | 8 |
| SL Cabin Altitude (ft) | 25230 | 25000 |
| Max Cabin Altitude (ft) | — | 5800 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes |
| Model | PW306D | HTF7250G |
| TBO (hrs) | 6000 | On-Condition |
| Flat Rating | ISA + 16 | ISA + 17 |
| Thrust (lbs) | 5907 | 7624 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 2 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 1700 | — |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 63.5 | 66.9 |
| Wingspan (ft) | 72.4 | 63 |
| Aisle Step (ft) | 0.7 | 0.3 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 5.5 | 6.9 |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 5.7 | 6.3 |
| Cabin Length (ft) | 25.3 | 25.9 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 20.4 | 21.4 |
| Cabin Width - Floor (ft) | 3.9 | 5.4 |
| Cabin Length - Seating (ft) | 17.4 | 17.7 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 100 | — |
| Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft) | 35 | 154 |