Gulfstream’s G280 is the smallest model currently produced by Gulfstream Aerospace. But the G280 provides buyers with plenty of size, speed and range capability for its class.
The Gulfstream G280 replaced the older G200 on the production line, and incorporated several improvements, including an increase in cabin length (thanks to the removal of a rear-fuselage fuel tank) and new Honeywell HTF7250G engines that deliver improved operating weights, climb rates and fuel efficiency.
Maximum range of G280 – 3,600 NM/6,667 km – makes it the only aircraft in its class that can fly from London to New York, nonstop. At Mach 0.80, it can do so in record time. The jet also broke a record when it was used for a transatlantic flight from Chicago to France. Despite the length of the trip – nearly 4,000 NM – the plane landed with fuel reserves in excess of what the NBAA requires for IFR transatlantic flights. It never fell below Mach 0.80, either, even though it flew its maximum gross takeoff weight.
The Gulfstream G280 hasn’t reached such heights of popularity just for its performance. The twin-engine business jet also has plenty to offer passengers who put a premium on comfort. Gulfstream updated the previous model by increasing the interior cabin’s length by 17 inches. This added space now accommodates two extra windows on each side. As a super-midsize model, these improvements make the Gulfstream 280’s cabin the best in its class. The windows are also worth noting because of their design. Obviously, the extra windows mean much more light, but the design’s use of window reveals gives a pleasant illusion of extra size and a noticeable touch of elegance.
The G280 interior can be configured to suit 8 to 10 passengers. Several of the seating options include a stylish divan. By mid-size standards, the G280’s cabin is absolutely huge. The aisles are 23 inches wide and 6 feet, one-inch tall – 7 feet at the cabin’s shoulders. With the popularity of flat-floor cabins, Gulfstream’s choice to implement a walkway may seem outdated. However, the G280’s seats (which are highly articulated and extremely comfortable) are on raised platforms, so passengers sit along the widest sections of the cabin. Passengers can, therefore, enjoy even more space by sliding their seats toward the aisle.
The vacuum toilet and venting system overhead ensure the bathroom on this jet is always fresh and free of odors. Back in the cabin, passengers will enjoy fresh – not recycled – air. Both of these features make a world of difference during longer flights.
The rear baggage area of the Gulfstream G280 it’s extremely spacious. It offers 120 cubic feet (once again, best in class), which is a lot of room for a comparable super mid jet of its size. That said, the main reason air charter passengers love it is because the baggage area on the G280 can be accessed during a flight.
