Gulfstream G280 Hits 300 Deliveries in Super-Midsize Jet Market

Gulfstream G280 Reaches 300th Delivery: A Milestone in Super-Midsize Aviation

On June 15, 2025, Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. announced the 300th customer delivery of its Gulfstream G280 aircraft, marking a significant achievement in the super-midsize business jet sector. This milestone, completed at Gulfstream’s Dallas-Fort Worth facility, reflects the enduring demand for the G280’s combination of performance, reliability, and cabin comfort.

With more than 575,000 flight hours and nearly 358,000 landings logged as of May 2025, the G280 has established itself as a cornerstone in the business aviation landscape. Its 99.88% dispatch reliability rate, as reported by the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), is a testament to Gulfstream’s commitment to engineering excellence and customer satisfaction.

This article explores the aircraft’s development, technical advancements, market positioning, and the broader implications of its success for the business aviation industry.

Development and Evolution of the Gulfstream G280

From G200 to G280: A Strategic Transformation

The G280’s origins trace back to the Gulfstream G200, initially developed in the 1990s as the Astra Galaxy by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI). While the G200 offered a spacious cabin and solid performance, it lacked the range and efficiency needed to compete in a growing market. In response, Gulfstream and IAI launched the G250 program in 2005 to address these limitations.

Rebranded as the G280 in 2011 to avoid cultural misinterpretations in Mandarin-speaking markets, the aircraft underwent significant design enhancements. These included a 14% larger wing, heated leading edges for better cold-weather performance, and the introduction of Honeywell HTF7250G engines. These upgrades extended the aircraft’s range to 3,600 nautical miles at Mach 0.80, placing it ahead of many competitors in its class.

The G280 received dual certification from Israeli and U.S. aviation authorities in 2012 and has since become a mainstay in Gulfstream’s lineup of business jets.

Production Milestones and Global Reach

Gulfstream’s collaboration with IAI has been instrumental in the G280’s success. The aircraft is assembled in Israel and completed in the U.S., primarily at the Dallas-Fort Worth facility, which specializes in luxury interiors and final outfitting. The 200th delivery was achieved in 2020, and the 300th in mid-2025, demonstrating consistent demand despite market fluctuations.

The G280 is particularly popular for transcontinental routes such as New York to London and Singapore to Dubai, thanks to its range and performance. Its steep-approach capabilities also enable access to challenging airports like London City, enhancing its appeal to business travelers seeking proximity to urban centers.

With 87 city-pair speed records and global operational reach, the G280 continues to set benchmarks in the super-midsize category.

“Achieving this delivery milestone reinforces the continued strong demand for the G280,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “Known for its unique combination of speed, performance and cabin flexibility, the G280 remains top of the super-midsize class and continues to set the industry standard.”

Technical Excellence and Performance Metrics

Design and Cabin Features

The G280’s airframe measures 66 ft 10 in in length, with a wingspan of 63 ft and a height of 21 ft 4 in. The cabin length is 25 ft 10 in, offering ample room for up to 10 passengers. Floorplans include configurations with a four-place conference table, executive seating, and a galley. Gulfstream’s Large Oval Windows, 19 in total, maximize natural light and contribute to a more spacious feel.

Connectivity and entertainment are central to the G280 experience. The aircraft offers a high-speed Ka-band satellite system, Gulfstream’s proprietary cabin management system, and high-definition video options. Passengers also benefit from in-flight access to baggage, a feature not commonly available in this class.

Certified to FAA Stage 5 noise standards, the G280 aligns with modern environmental expectations, reducing community impact during takeoff and landing operations.

Engine Performance and Avionics

Powered by two Honeywell HTF7250G engines, each delivering 7,624 pounds of thrust, the G280 reaches a top speed of Mach 0.85 and cruises efficiently at Mach 0.80. Its maximum altitude is 45,000 feet, and it requires just 4,750 feet for takeoff and 2,720 feet for landing, making it suitable for a wide range of airports.

The avionics suite, PlaneView280, integrates advanced flight systems such as dual HUDs, a Predictive Landing Performance System, and a Combined Vision System (CVS) that merges synthetic and enhanced vision. These features improve situational awareness and safety, particularly in low-visibility conditions.

Additional upgrades include SiriusXM weather updates, FANS-E compliance for datalink communications, and plasma ionization systems that neutralize airborne pathogens, features that have become increasingly relevant in a post-pandemic world.

Reliability and Maintenance

The G280 has demonstrated a 99.88% dispatch reliability rate, calculated as the percentage of flights completed without technical delays. This figure is supported by Gulfstream’s rigorous 250-hour reliability demonstration program, which tests systems under stress to ensure consistent performance.

Maintenance intervals have been extended, including RVSM height-validation intervals now reaching up to 96 months. These improvements reduce downtime and operational costs, enhancing the aircraft’s appeal to fleet operators and corporate clients alike.

With over 575,000 flight hours logged across the fleet, the G280 has proven its durability and efficiency in real-world operations.

Market Impact and Industry Implications

Competitive Landscape

The G280 competes with models such as the Bombardier Challenger 350, Cessna Citation Longitude, and Embraer Praetor 600. While each offers similar range and cabin amenities, the G280 distinguishes itself through its performance metrics and operational reliability.

Its 87 city-pair speed records and steep-approach certification allow it to operate in unique environments, giving it a competitive edge. Additionally, its compliance with Stage 5 noise standards and ability to use sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) position it well for future regulatory landscapes.

As of 2025, new G280 units are priced around $24.5 million, with pre-owned models ranging between $17.75 million and $22.5 million. These figures reflect its strong residual value and market desirability.

Customer Experience and Utilization

The G280’s cabin flexibility, connectivity options, and low operating costs, estimated at $3,220.88 per flight hour, make it a practical choice for both private owners and corporate fleets. Operators report high satisfaction rates, particularly in terms of comfort, reliability, and support from Gulfstream’s global service network.

With an average of 1,916 hours per aircraft, the fleet demonstrates high utilization, underscoring its value in charter and business travel markets. Gulfstream continues to invest in enhancements that streamline pilot workload and improve passenger safety, ensuring the G280 remains at the forefront of its class.

These factors contribute to its reputation as a reliable, luxurious, and efficient aircraft for a wide range of missions.

Conclusion

The Gulfstream G280’s 300th delivery is more than a numerical milestone, it is a reflection of the aircraft’s enduring relevance in the super-midsize jet category. With a blend of performance, cabin luxury, and technological innovation, the G280 continues to meet the evolving needs of business aviation customers.

As Gulfstream and its parent company General Dynamics look to the future, investments in sustainability, hybrid propulsion, and next-generation avionics will shape the G280’s role in a rapidly changing industry. For now, the aircraft stands as a benchmark of excellence in its class, with a legacy that is still being written.

FAQ

What is the range of the Gulfstream G280?
The G280 has a range of 3,600 nautical miles (6,667 kilometers) at Mach 0.80.

How many passengers can the G280 accommodate?
It can seat up to 10 passengers, depending on the interior configuration.

What is the dispatch reliability rate of the G280?
The G280 boasts a 99.88% dispatch reliability rate, according to NBAA data.

Is the G280 certified for steep approaches?
Yes, it has proven steep-approach capabilities, allowing access to challenging airports like London City.

What are the key competitors of the G280?
Major competitors include the Bombardier Challenger 350, Cessna Citation Longitude, and Embraer Praetor 600.

Sources: Gulfstream Aerospace Corp., National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), Honeywell Aerospace, AIN Online, Bombardier